Hearing loss can be caused by numerous things and is generally very aggravating. Although hearing loss is commonly caused by age or an injury, in some circumstances, hearing loss might be a symptom of a more severe root medical condition.
These are some hearing loss red flags you should watch for
Hearing loss will frequently throw up a number of red flags indicating it’s time for a hearing test. Pay attention if any of these red flags manifest.
Trouble hearing on the telephone
Even with a volume control setting, you may find it difficult to hear the individual you are talking to on the phone. If you are continually cranking the volume up louder and louder on your cell phone or landline, you should schedule an appointment as soon as possible for a hearing exam.
Difficulty following conversations
At times, we get lost when we’re having conversations even when our hearing is healthy, but if it occurs often, particularly when more than two people are talking, it’s probably an indication of hearing loss.
Neighbors and family members are complaining about a loud TV
Following along with tv shows, especially when there’s dialog and music, can be a challenge. We need to recognize that the sound doesn’t automatically get clearer when you turn up the volume. But it’s time to get your hearing checked if your neighbors can hear your TV or if you continuously need the volume on a very high setting.
Difficulty hearing in loud settings
It usually means you’re struggling to separate speech from background sound if hearing in a public place has become challenging. Individuals who are developing hearing loss most commonly have this complaint.
You keep asking people what they said
If somebody is mumbling a few feet from you and you’re unable to hear them, that doesn’t automatically indicate you have hearing loss. Still, it might be a red flag that you aren’t receiving and processing speech correctly if the word “what” is the most used word in your vocabulary.
Failing to understand what people say
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 challenging to discern speech.
If you are dealing with any of the above red flags, you should schedule a hearing test as soon as you can. Luckily, the stigma that was once associated with hearing loss has nearly vanished, the testing is simple, and with the modern advances in hearing aid technologies, there’s no reason for you to keep suffering with hearing loss.