Important Reasons to Consider a Hearing Test

When was the last time you had your hearing checked? For most people, the answer is either “never” or “not since grade school.” But just like eye exams or dental checkups, hearing tests should be a regular part of your health routine, especially as you get older. 

Hearing loss doesn’t usually happen overnight. It’s subtle, gradual, and often easy to ignore, until it starts affecting every aspect of your life. The good news? ENT physician and surgeon Raj Bhayani, MD, at the New York Institute of Otolaryngology and Aesthetic Surgery, offers simple hearing tests that catch issues early, opening the door to solutions that help you stay connected to the world around you.

Here are some of the biggest reasons to consider booking a hearing test. 

You may not realize you have hearing loss

Hearing isn’t always obvious. You might adapt to it without realizing how much you’re missing. Here are some common early signs to look out for: 

• Frequently asking others to repeat themselves
• Turning up the TV or phone volume
• Struggling to follow conversations in noisy environments
• Thinking people are “mumbling” 
• Feeling tired or frustrated in social interactions 

If any of this sounds familiar, you’re not alone. Millions of adults have some degree of hearing loss, and most wait an average of 10 years before doing anything about it. The sooner you catch it, the better the outcome. 

Hearing loss can affect more than just your ears 

Hearing health is connected to your overall well-being. Ignoring it can lead to other more serious issues, including: 

• Cognitive decline and memory issues
• Increased risk of depression and social isolation
• Balance problems and falls
• Reduced job performance or confidence 

When you struggle to hear, your brain works overtime just to keep up. That added mental load can leave you drained and disconnected, both emotionally and physically. 

Early detection can lead to better treatment options

Not all hearing loss is the same. Some causes, like wax buildup or infections, are temporary and easily treated. Others may require hearing aids or assistive technology. The earlier you catch it, the more effective your options may be. 

A hearing test can help identify the type and extent of your hearing loss by detecting early signs of age-related or noise-induced damage, ruling out medical conditions. It also informs the next steps for treatment or prevention. Even if you do not have hearing loss, a test provides a baseline that can help you track changes over time. 

Hearing tests are quick and easy 

A hearing test is non-invasive, painless, and takes less than an hour. Dr. Bhayani walks you through a few simple steps, like listening to tones, repeating words, or identifying sounds. Here’s what you need to know: 

Insurance 

Hearing tests are often covered by insurance or available for free at health fairs. 

Referrals 

You don’t need a referral to see a hearing specialist and catch any potential issues early. 

Timing 

It’s never too early (or too late) to start checking in on your hearing and prioritizing your overall well-being. Think of it like a wellness check for your ears — low effort, high reward. 

Just like getting your eyes checked or going to the dentist, your hearing deserves the same amount of care. Whether you notice signs of hearing loss or just want to stay proactive, a hearing test is a smart and empowering step. 

Don’t wait — contact us to schedule a hearing test with Dr. Bhayani in either Brooklyn or Queens, and start protecting one of your most vital senses today.