Because hearing loss usually occurs gradually and over time, it’s difficult for many people affected by it to realize that their hearing has changed and that they may benefit from using a hearing aid. However, knowing some of the common signs can help to diagnose hearing loss in yourself or in loved ones.
If you’ve experienced any of these symptoms, you may be suffering from hearing loss and may benefit from a hearing device:
- The volume of your TV is higher than usual — if you find that others are surprised by the volume at which you watch TV, it may be the case that you’ve experienced hearing loss and are trying to compensate with a higher TV volume.
- You’re talking louder — if anyone has told you you’re talking louder than necessary, it’s important to consider why, as the cause may actually be your hearing. Those with hearing loss frequently have trouble gauging the volume of their own voice, so they tend to speak louder, which, to them, sounds right.
- Have trouble hearing the soft, high voices of small children — if you’re having trouble hearing children, this could point to a possible loss of high frequencies in your hearing range.
- You avoid talking on the phone because you find it challenging to hear others — it may not just be your particular device, but instead your hearing that’s the problem.
- You have trouble hearing people in restaurants — if you find that it’s becoming harder for you to hear others when there’s other background noise (within reason), this could point to hearing loss as well.
- Your spouse complains you often miss information — if you’re regularly missing parts of conversations (aside from voluntary selective hearing), it may be the case that you’re suffering from hearing loss.
- Frequent ringing in the ears — if it happens regularly, ringing in the ears could be a sign of tinnitus, a serious condition that could affect your hearing and quality of life.
Hearing loss in most cases is insidious. Getting hearing help and undergoing a hearing evaluation is a good idea for the health of your hearing as well as for your overall wellness. If getting a second opinion is needed to get the answers you are looking for, now is the time.
Are you experiencing one or more of these seven symptoms? If so, it may be time for an evaluation by a Doctor of Audiology. Contact us today to set up a consultation!
