Patient Resources
Jonathan Lipschutz Audiologist, M.S., F-AAA, Co-Owner
Mark has spent his life surrounded by loud music. As a professional rock ’n’ roller, he was no stranger to ringing in his ears after a show. In his mid-50s, however, the ringing became a constant presence, and conversations began to feel like a puzzle with pieces missing.
Even then, he put off getting a hearing assessment. “I was hesitant to know the truth and feared my hearing would be really bad, but I got sick of saying ‘What?’” Mark says.
His experience reflects a common hesitation around hearing evaluations. Anxiety about what the results might reveal can make it easy to delay getting answers, but for Mark, taking that first step helped him understand what was happening and opened the door to finding a way forward.
Why October Is Your Sign to Act
October is National Protect Your Hearing Month, making it a perfect opportunity to think about your hearing health.
Hearing changes often happen gradually, with the effects of years spent around loud music, noisy work environments, or everyday city sounds adding up over time. The early signs can also be easy to overlook because they often feel like minor inconveniences.
Maybe you turn the TV up a little louder or lean in closer during conversations without realizing these adjustments could signal a change in your hearing.
Getting a hearing assessment is a simple way to better understand what’s happening and take a proactive approach to your hearing health. Rather than waiting for everyday conversations to become more difficult, an assessment can help you stay connected to the people, activities, and sounds that matter most to you.
Finding a Tuning Match at Berkeley Hearing Center
Finding the right healthcare provider involves more than medical expertise. You also want to feel comfortable asking questions and knowing that you’re being heard.
When Mark walked into our practice, he felt that connection immediately: “I loved both John and Jonathan right away,” he shared. “They are extremely caring and interesting, and I had the bonus of Jonathan being a fan of my music.”
That sense of comfort can make a difference when you’re navigating changes in your hearing. Your lifestyle and experiences all play a role in finding an approach that works for you, which is why your concerns and goals should be part of every conversation.
As an independent practice serving the Berkeley community since 1955, we’re here to give you the time, attention, and ongoing support you need to make informed decisions about your hearing.
Turning Up the Clarity: How Modern Hearing Aids Reconnect the Conversation
For Mark, getting fitted with modern hearing aids has made a noticeable difference in his everyday life.
“They vastly improve my ability to have a conversation, so I don’t zone out from only hearing half (or less) of what’s being said,” he explains. “And for TV it’s great because I don’t need to crank it up way too loud.”
Being able to follow speech more clearly can change how you experience daily interactions. You can stay engaged without constantly trying to fill in the gaps, making it easier to participate in conversations and enjoy time with family and friends.
Don't Miss a Beat: Taking the First Step Toward Better Hearing
From the moment you walk into the clinic to the moment you leave, you should feel heard and supported. Mark’s story speaks to the difference that can make: “My favorite thing is the experience, from greeting to ‘Thanks, see you next time.’ I would tell anyone concerned about their hearing, ‘Go! Do not hesitate…’ My guess is their life experience would change for the better.”
If you’ve been putting off a hearing assessment, Mark’s words may be the encouragement you need to take that next step. Contact our team at Berkeley Hearing Aid Center to schedule an appointment and learn more about your hearing health and options.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: What should I expect at my first hearing assessment?
A: Your first appointment includes a comprehensive, noninvasive assessment. We’ll start by discussing your health history and any concerns you have. Then, we’ll conduct a series of assessments to measure your ability to hear different sounds and understand speech.
The results help us create a complete picture of your hearing health and recommend a personalized treatment plan, if needed.
Q: Is constant ringing in the ears a sign of hearing loss?
A: Tinnitus is often associated with hearing changes, particularly after repeated exposure to loud music or noise, though it can have a range of other causes.
A professional evaluation can help identify possible contributing factors and determine what support may be appropriate for you. When discussing your symptoms, it can be helpful to note whether the sound affects one or both ears and when you first noticed it.
Q: Is it too late to protect my hearing after years of loud-noise exposure?
A: No. Even if noise-related hearing damage has already occurred, protecting your remaining hearing is still important.
Using appropriate hearing protection in loud environments, keeping listening levels at a comfortable volume, and giving your ears regular breaks from prolonged or high-volume noise can all help protect your hearing health.
If you’re concerned about changes in your hearing or your exposure to loud noise, contact us to discuss your concerns and learn what steps may be appropriate for you.
Source:
Jonathan Lipschutz Audiologist, M.S., F-AAA, Co-Owner
