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Many people are unaware that they’re experiencing hearing loss until loved ones point it out, or they find themselves avoiding loud music or conversations. Taking the steps to visit an audiologist can not only save your ears but also improve your quality of life.
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You’re noticing a change in your hearing
It’s normal to notice a change in your hearing as you age, but it isn’t always easy to recognize. Hearing loss is often gradual and may only be noticed by loved ones or hearing doctors.
If your friends and family have started to comment on how loud you have the TV or music, visiting an audiologist for a checkup is a good idea. It could indicate that you’re experiencing early-stage hearing loss and may benefit from hearing aids to amplify sounds.
Another common sign of hearing loss is a persistent ringing in the ears, more formally known as tinnitus. It also indicates that it’s time to visit your audiologist for a test. Hearing aids can help mask tinnitus and make voices more transparent.
You’re finding it difficult to hear in noisy places
It can be challenging to hear when there’s a lot of noise, but if this is becoming a regular problem, it may be time to see your audiologist. It will also give you a chance to take a more comprehensive hearing test, which checks for not only loudness but also pitch or frequency – the way speech sounds are formed by vibrations of air molecules and the speed of these vibrations (e.g., slow vibrations create a low-frequency sound, while rapid vibrations create a high-pitched sound).
You’ll probably also be tested for ear ringing (tinnitus), which is closely linked to hearing loss and often worsens over time. Your audiologist will be able to help you find ways to cope and manage this condition.
You’re asking people to repeat themselves more often
Everyone asks their friends and family to repeat themselves from time to time. But if you’re doing it frequently, it could be a sign that you’re experiencing hearing loss.
Persistent asking for things to be repeated can get annoying for the people you communicate with, and they may start to feel that you need to value their effort to repeat themselves. They might even stop talking to you or struggle to keep up with your conversations.
It is frustrating for all involved, but there are ways to resolve the issue. One option is to speak louder or use a hands-free device. You could also cup your ear to help drown out background noise. If you continue to struggle, it’s worth getting a hearing test.
You need help to follow conversations
It may be time to consult with a hearing healthcare specialist if you have difficulty understanding conversations, particularly in noisy environments.
It can be difficult because when you have hearing loss, sounds and voices can seem to become a blur. It is because you can’t localize sound as well.
Constantly asking people to repeat themselves can be frustrating, especially for those around you. Getting your hearing checked early on is crucial to avoid feelings of isolation and depression. If you’re concerned about your hearing, visit a trusted hearing specialist. These are signs that you have lost some of your hearing, and it’s essential to get it checked out as soon as possible.
Hearing loss can affect people in many ways, including causing them to withdraw from social situations or increasing their listening volume to make up for it. It can cause depression in some cases, so you must book a hearing test as soon as you notice any symptoms.
