Early changes to hearing are often so subtle that many people choose to ignore them. Hearing loss is common as we get older and you may be wondering if these subtle signs mean you need to do something about your hearing.
Treating your hearing loss can have many benefits, including an improved quality of life, decreased risk of depression and social anxiety, and decreased risk of memory problems. If you’re experiencing any of the following signs, it’s time to see an audiologist.
Turning Up The Volume
Have you noticed that you need to turn up the volume on your TV or music lately? Even the need to increase the volume slightly can indicate that your hearing has deteriorated. Of course, it could also be a fault in your TV sound so try other sounds.
Listen to the radio in your car or watch a video on your phone. If you need to increase the volume on all devices, it could be a sign that you need your hearing tested.
Children’s Voices Sound Muffled
Children have high pitched voices which can be hard to understand when you have hearing loss. You may find that they sound like they’re mumbling and you need to concentrate to figure out what they’re saying. This can happen with anyone with a high pitched voice.
If you find yourself asking people to repeat themselves often, the problem may be with your hearing. An audiologist’s hearing assessment methods will be able to pinpoint the issues you have with your hearing and treat them accordingly.
You Avoid Conversation In Loud Places
Perhaps you avoid trying to have conversations in loud places, like restaurants, because you find it too difficult. When you have hearing loss, it can be tough to follow conversation with lots of background noise. This can be embarrassing and can lead to a lack of socialization.
If you’re reluctant to spend time in groups or in loud places, it can affect the quality of your life and make you socially anxious. Getting help with your hearing can put you back in control of these situations.
You’re Trying To Lip Read
Perhaps you’ve found yourself concentrating on people’s lips to hear what they’re saying, rather than listening. Maybe you find yourself turning to look at people’s faces when you can’t understand what’s being said. Although this can be a means to an end, it’s not a long term solution.
Treatments like hearing aids can offer a solution that means you don’t have to exhaust yourself lip reading every conversation.
Your Ears Feel Blocked
There are times when hearing difficulty is just a result of a build up of ear wax or fluid in the ears. It’s worth asking your doctor to check if there is anything in your ears blocking your ability to hear well. If your doctor says your ears are clear then you know that it’s time to book a hearing test.
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