Hearing loss is often gradual and sometimes very subtle at first. As a result, others often notice our hearing loss before we notice it ourselves. A hearing loss that goes untreated tends to worsen over time and can ultimately lead to things like depression, isolation, dementia, and an inability to interpret sounds. Here are 10 common signs of hearing loss to watch for:
10 Common Signs of Hearing Loss
- Other’s speech seems muffled or like they are mumbling.
- It’s hard to focus on what people are saying amidst background noise.
- It’s difficult to distinguish between different consonant sounds, like T and P.
- You often ask people to repeat themselves or to speak up.
- You frequently increase the volume on your TV.
- You find yourself avoiding conversations since you struggle to keep up.
- Social settings with multiple competing sounds leave you exhausted.
- It’s difficult to hear what people say over the phone.
- You’re experiencing ringing or buzzing in your ears.
- You hear people talking but struggle to understand what they mean.
Why Prompt Treatment is So Important
Untreated hearing loss is not only frustrating, but it’s also detrimental to your health. Serious problems like heart disease, thyroid problems, anxiety, depression, and dementia could underlie an undiagnosed hearing loss. Delaying treatment could lead to these underlying conditions being missed by your health care professional and cause medical consequences as a result.
There are also safety hazards when you aren’t able to hear, things like; fire alarms, doorbells, and honking horns. Unexpected circumstances like the COVID-19 lockdown pose additional risks; When we’re physically isolated, our ability to hear becomes increasingly important, not only for safety but also for our connection to the world. Listening to the news, family phone calls, and FaceTime meetings become essential for mental and physical health.
How Audiology Associates Can Help
If you’re struggling to hear sounds like you used to, let us help. We perform a series of quick and gentle tests to determine the cause and severity of the hearing loss. In light of current events, it’s more essential than ever to work with a caring team. Even if you can’t come into the office, we offer Curbside Service Appointments for contact-free care and use incredible remote technology so we can adjust your hearing aids without you leaving your home. For appointments or support, please feel free to call us at (410) 944-3100, or click here to schedule a consultation.
