Hearing loss makes it difficult or impossible to hear speech and other sounds. There are different types of hearing loss, and they can range from mild to severe. Some types of hearing loss are temporary, and some are permanent.
What are the five signs of hearing loss and when should you see an audiologist?
Increasing the volume higher than usual
Have you ever been told to turn down the TV because it was too loud for those in the adjacent room?
This minor point might be overlooked, but if you notice that this incident keeps happening, you should have your hearing checked. It’s common knowledge that other people—usually a spouse, a good friend, or someone you interact with frequently—discover early indications of hearing loss.
Don’t take it personally if they mention that you could have hearing problems. Take this as a cue to make an appointment with an audiologist.
Tinnitus
Tinnitus is the term for ringing or hearing other disturbing noises in one or both of your ears. The sounds you hear when you have tinnitus are often not audible to others since they are not brought on by external noises. Tinnitus is a common problem. It affects 15% to 20% of people, and older persons are more likely to suffer from it.
Tinnitus is frequently caused by an underlying illness, such as aging-related hearing loss, an injury in the ear, or an issue in the circulatory system. Tinnitus may get better when the underlying cause is treated or when additional therapies are utilized to minimize or mask the noise.
Others seem to be mumbling
Your hearing may become muffled or distorted if you have allergies or a common cold. This is often due to congestion or pressure in the ears and usually clears out on its own. However, you should visit a doctor if you don’t have any cold or allergies but perceive sounds are distorted, as if the person speaking to you is mumbling or eating their words.
Hearing distortion may also be brought on by impacted earwax blocking the ear canal. Your hearing may be impaired or damaged if ear wax accumulates. To determine if there are any physical obstructions that might be affecting your hearing, an audiologist can examine your ears.
Hearing issues in background noise
The inability to hear in noisy environments is a typical problem for the elderly or those who have high-frequency hearing loss. Auditory processing issues and high-frequency hearing loss are two of the most typical causes of trouble hearing over background noise. An audiologist can best determine hearing loss and pinpoint the type and severity. If you experience difficulty hearing even with minimal background noise, you should get your hearing tested so that the problem can be addressed early on.
Shying away from social gatherings
People with hearing loss are more likely to experience social isolation. When hearing becomes a problem, they typically decide to retreat and keep their distance rather than take part in social gatherings. They may be shy, embarrassed, anxious, or nervous whenever they are put in the spotlight. Hearing loss can cause psychological and social issues that could affect relationships, careers, and daily living.
Untreated hearing loss may lead to difficulty in appreciating some of life’s simple joys. Don’t allow hearing loss to rob you of the opportunity to enjoy life to the fullest. Take note of the red flags and see an audiologist to get your hearing tested.
Hearing Tests in Swampscott and Peabody, MA
Hearing loss doesn’t mean disconnecting from the people and activities you love. With the right audiology care, you can connect back to life and live it to the fullest! Atlantic Hearing Care offers comprehensive hearing testing in Swampscott and Peabody, MA, and nearby communities.
Got more questions about hearing loss? Ask an audiologist today!