Sports promote teamwork and help keep you healthy. But for those with hearing loss, playing a game is easier said than done. But hope is not lost. The experts at Houston Hearing Center are here to help those with hearing loss get back out on the field.
Competitive Athletes with Hearing Loss 
One of the first deaf athletes to become a household name was Heather Whitestone. She completed in the 1995 Miss America pageant and showcased her classical ballet skills during the talent portion.
During her reign, Heather worked on the largest national campaign to bring awareness to the importance of the early detection of hearing loss.
Other famous deaf athletes including Chris Colwill, an American diver; Tamika Catchings, a WMBA player and participant at the 2008 Olympics and Marcs Titus, an American swimmer.
You don’t have to be an Olympic-level athlete to participate in sports with hearing loss. Below are three tips for how to be the best athlete you can be.
Let Your Audiologist Know
When putting together an individualized treatment plan, your audiologist takes a number of factors into consideration. One of which is your typical amount of physical activity. Make sure to let your audiologist know you play a sport, as their hearing aid recommendation may change. Some models (ITE) are better for those exposed to the elements like wind and rain, while others (BTE) can be secured to your clothing to prevent accidental damage.
Invest in Protection
Accidental falls from the ear and exposure to moisture are the most common ways athletes damage their hearing aids.
For those who play a water sport, a water-resistant hearing aid is essential.
Hearing aid dryers and dehumidifiers can help get rid of the moisture that has collected in a hearing aid after a workout or match. Like most electronic devices, moisture and hearing aids don’t mix.
Securely fastening a hearing aid to your clothing can help prevent it from accidentally falling out of your ear while running.
Keep Others Informed
Some athletes choose to remove their hearing aids before a game. It is important to let your teammates and coach know, so they can alert you if there is a whistle or other warning sings you need to pay attention to.
Having a hearing loss should not prevent you from doing something you love. Contact the experts at Houston Hearing Center today to learn more.
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