You’ve heard it all before or have you? Is your family complaining about your hearing? Do they tell you they have to repeat themselves several times before you answer? Is your spouse complaining that you’re not paying attention?
You think, “They’re just mumbling!” or “’ They speak too soft!” Not so fast! It may be something more than just lack of attention going on or your family member’s speech patterns.
You could have hearing loss which affects 48 million people in the United States alone. Hearing loss most often occurs gradually but can also come on suddenly. When it occurs over a long period of time, you may not notice it at first.
I tell my customers, “It’s those around you that notice it first. You lose hearing at such a gradual pace that you don’t notice it.”
So, if your family and friends are complaining about your hearing, it’s time to get your hearing evaluated by a professional. When hearing loss comes on suddenly, it’s definitely more noticeable and concerning. In this case, call your physician immediately.
The Common Signs
Other signs of hearing loss include turning your television up loud, not hearing well on the telephone and having to ask others to repeat themselves often.
When your neighbors tell you they can hear your t.v., it’s time to get your hearing tested!
Also, have you ever answered a question inappropriately because you didn’t hear it correctly? For example, your wife asks you “Where’s the cat?” and you answer “What hat?”. This is a sign of hearing loss and can be quite embarrassing if it happens a lot.
Difficulty hearing in noise is another warning sign of decreased hearing ability. For example, is it hard for you to follow a conversation when there’s more than 2 speakers?
Or do you avoid going to crowded places because you have difficulty hearing? If so, hearing loss may be the culprit.
Tinnitus and Hearing Loss
Last but certainly not least, is tinnitus. Tinnitus is another symptom of hearing loss. This is commonly described as a ringing, roaring, hissing or chirping sound in one or both ears.
This sound is not caused by an external source and other people can’t hear it. Tinnitus highly correlates to hearing loss. In fact, 50 million Americans have some form of tinnitus and 90% of those have some form of hearing loss.
We Can Help
So, if you’re experiencing any of the above symptoms, it’s time to have a comprehensive hearing evaluation performed by a professional.
The professionals of Audiology On Call are on standby ready to come perform this service in the comfort of your home or office. Don’t hesitate on your path to better hearing and better health!
