Signs you might have a hearing loss and what to do next

Hearing loss can be gradual and subtle, making it easy to overlook until it starts affecting daily life. Whether you're missing parts of conversations, asking people to repeat themselves, or struggling with background noise, recognizing the early signs is crucial. Addressing hearing loss early can help maintain your quality of life and prevent further decline.

Common Signs of Hearing Loss

Difficulty Understanding Conversations

If voices sound muffled or it seems like people are mumbling, you might have trouble hearing certain speech frequencies. Sometimes people describe this as being able to hear someone but not understand what they say.

Frequent Requests for Repetition

If you often find yourself saying, “What?” or “Can you repeat that?” it could be a sign of hearing decline.

Struggling in Noisy Environments

Background noise can make it difficult to focus on conversations. If crowded restaurants or group settings feel overwhelming, your hearing might be the culprit.

Turning Up the Volume

Needing the TV, phone, or car radio at a higher volume than others find comfortable is a red flag.

Ringing or Buzzing in the Ears (Tinnitus)

Persistent ringing or buzzing sounds, known as tinnitus, often accompany hearing loss and can be a symptom of a hearing impairment.

Avoiding Social Situations

If socializing becomes exhausting or frustrating due to difficulty hearing, it could be a sign of undiagnosed hearing loss.

Missing Everyday Sounds

Do you struggle to hear birds chirping, the microwave beeping, or your phone ringing? These small details could indicate a problem.

What do you do next?

If you recognize any of these signs, don’t ignore them! Here’s what to do:

Schedule a Hearing Test – An audiologist can assess your hearing and determine if hearing loss is present.

Protect Your Ears – Reduce exposure to loud noises, wear ear protection in noisy environments, and keep headphone volume at a safe level.

Explore Hearing Solutions – If a hearing aid or assistive device is recommended, don’t hesitate to explore options tailored to your needs.

Stay Engaged – Hearing loss can lead to social withdrawal, so be proactive about staying connected with loved ones.

Hearing loss isn’t just an inconvenience—it can impact your mental, emotional, and physical well-being. Taking action early can improve your quality of life and help you stay engaged with the world around you.

Have concerns about your hearing? Schedule a hearing test today!