Know The Signs Of Hearing Loss

How do you know if you have hearing loss? The answer isn’t always as obvious as you might think. For many people, hearing loss happens so gradually that they continue to think their hearing is fine, even when it’s not. 

The best way to know the condition of your hearing health is regular check-ups. If you haven’t had a professional hearing test in a while, visit a hearing care professional near you. Annual health check-ups are always a good idea — and your hearing health is no different. It’s never too early to get your first hearing test to determine your current hearing abilities. In the event of future changes, the first test can be used as a baseline.

You might already recognize signs of hearing loss on your own. If you answer yes to any of these questions, it might be time to schedule a hearing test. These are some of the most common questions to ask yourself when looking for signs of hearing loss:

• Do other people frequently complain that your TV or radio is too loud?
• Do you have difficulty focusing on conversations in noisy situations, like restaurants, malls, and meetings? 
• Do you have difficulty following conversations involving two or more people?
• Do you have trouble understanding someone if you are not standing face-to-face?
• Do everyday sounds sometimes seem muffled?
• Do you feel that people are mumbling?
• Do you have particular difficulty hearing women’s and children’s voices?
• Do you sometimes give unrelated answers or comments to questions and conversations?
• Do you sometimes have a ringing sensation in your ears?

 

Hearing loss can be related to environmental and medical conditions. Do any of these apply to you?

• Exposure to loud sounds over a long period of time
• A single exposure to an explosive noise
• Diabetes, heart, circulatory, or thyroid conditions
• Family history of hearing loss
• Certain medications (ask your doctor or audiologist)

 

There are also emotional signs that you are having hearing difficulties. Do any of these describe feelings you are having?

• Feeling stressed out when listening to someone
• Frustration that people mumble or don’t speak up
• Embarrassment about not following conversations
• Feeling nervous that you won’t understand something
• Avoiding social situations, especially ones with a lot of noise
• Not enjoying being with people as much as you used to

 

You might be surprised to relate to some of these experiences and feelings. If so, don’t be embarrassed — get your hearing checked. Most people are pleased by how simple the treatment process can be and are delighted by what a difference it can make in their lives. Check out Sonic for more information on the wide range of hearing aids available.

Visit your nearest Hearing Care Professional and discuss the experiences and feelings you may have about your hearing health.  Find the nearest one using the Sonic Hearing Centre Locator. Have your hearing tested and discuss the available options to improve your overall hearing, your emotional connections to friends and family, and your enjoyment of the sounds of everyday life. 

To book your hearing assessment today, contact your local Sonic partner clinic