Common Signs of Hearing Loss

It is always a good idea to practice hearing loss prevention techniques, but hearing loss can still sneak up on you. If you experience any of the below signs, you should see a hearing specialist.

• Difficulty hearing on the telephone
• Trouble hearing birds, wind, alarms/bells, women, and children
• Turning the TV volume too high for others
• Frequently asking people to repeat themselves
• Trouble hearing words or music when there is background noise
• Difficulty following conversations in groups
• Feeling that many people mumble
• Misunderstanding words and responding inappropriately, or nodding/smiling when you haven’t really understood what was said
• Frequent ringing, roaring, or hissing in the ears

Preventing Hearing Loss

Even though some hearing loss is unavoidable as it comes with time and age, there is plenty you can do to help protect your ears:

• Avoid prolonged noise exposure.
• Wear earplugs during “loud”activities like lawn mowing, concerts, hunting, construction, etc.
• Be careful with headphone volume. If possible, use noise-reducing headphones
• Ask your doctor if any of your medications could be ototoxic
• Especially if you are over the age of 50, schedule a yearly hearing test

Causes of Hearing Loss

Most often a hearing loss develops gradually and painlessly. However, hearing can occur for many reasons including: