Hearing loss can be difficult to detect yourself because it tends to be a gradual process. In fact, we’re more likely to notice changes in behaviour due to hearing loss rather than the loss of hearing itself.
This is why booking regular hearing evaluations with an audiologist is so important. A professional hearing assessment will detect signs of hearing loss much more quickly than if not done at all. And this, in turn, can prevent more damage occurring than if it was left undetected and untreated.
Since we’re more likely to notice other symptoms and changes in behaviour when it comes to hearing loss, there are telltale signs to watch for. These can apply to yourself, or to relatives or friends you spend time with.
5 signs you need to see an audiologist
- Turning the television up louder – this tends to be readily noticeable by others.
- Withdrawing from social situations — straining to hear all the time is exhausting and makes social situations unpleasant and uncomfortable. They may just not be worth the effort anymore.
- Thinking people are “mumbling” — if you’re having to ask more and more people to repeat what they have said, it’s unlikely everyone is starting to mumble. It’s time to book a hearing test.
- Difficulty hearing conversations with groups of people — with hearing loss, the more background noise there is, the more difficult it is to hear conversations you’re actually trying to listen to.
- Ringing or buzzing in ears (tinnitus) – tinnitus can be a sign of damage having already occurred, or could be indicative of another problem within the hearing system.
If you’re noticing any of these signs it’s time to book an appointment with an audiologist. Detecting hearing problems earlier leads to better outcomes.
Puretone Hearing Clinic has 3 locations to serve you–Surrey, White Rock, and Vancouver. Ask us about our free hearing consultations (for age 60+)