Hearing loss is usually a frustrating condition that can be the result of a number of things. There are some circumstances where hearing loss is related to a more severe underlying health condition and isn’t just the result of an injury or aging.
Watch out for these hearing loss red flags
There are varieties of red flags that might be an indication of hearing loss and that it’s time to schedule a hearing assessment appointment. Pay attention if any of these red flags manifest.
Difficulties hearing on the phone
Even with a volume control setting, you may find it hard to hear the person you are talking to on the phone. If you are continually turning the volume up louder and louder on your cell phone or landline, you should make an appointment as soon as you can for a hearing assessment.
Trouble following conversations
Even though getting lost during a conversation isn’t always an indication of hearing loss, it might be a sign of hearing loss if you frequently have difficulty processing the conversation when two or more people are talking simultaneously.
Neighbors and family members are complaining about a loud TV
Following along with television shows, particularly when there’s dialog and music, can be a challenge. It’s worthwhile to know that turning the television up louder doesn’t always clear up the sound. But it’s time to have your hearing checked if your neighbors can hear your TV or if you constantly need the volume on a really loud setting.
Difficulty hearing in noisy environments
It typically means you’re struggling to separate speech from background noise if hearing in a public place has become a challenge. People who are developing hearing loss most commonly have this complaint.
You keep asking people what they said
Just because you aren’t able to hear someone mumbling several feet from you doesn’t mean you have hearing loss. However, it might be a red flag that you aren’t receiving and processing speech properly if the word “what” is the most used word in your vocabulary.
Misunderstanding what people are saying
It can be an indication of high frequency hearing loss, often an awkward one, if you regularly misunderstand what people are saying. This type of hearing loss makes it difficult to distinguish speech.
If you are experiencing any of the above red flags, you should schedule a hearing exam as soon as possible. Luckily, the stigma that was once related to hearing loss no longer exists, the testing is simple, and with the modern developments in hearing aid technologies, there’s no reason for you to continue to suffer with hearing loss.