Hearing loss can happen to anyone, though it becomes more common with age.
If you’re experiencing hearing loss, it’s important to seek help and find the appropriate treatment sooner rather than later. However, that can sometimes be tricky, as age-related hearing loss occurs gradually, so it can be difficult to notice at first.
Let’s go over a few signs of hearing loss that should prompt you to schedule an appointment for a hearing test.
You Feel Like Everyone Is Mumbling
Higher-frequency sounds are usually the first that become harder to hear when you have hearing loss. Unfortunately, much of speech, including consonant sounds, falls into this category. However, vowels do not. This can make it seem like people aren’t speaking clearly when in actuality, it’s a problem with your ears. This may be especially noticeable in people with higher-pitched voices.
You Have Trouble Following Conversations in a Crowded Room
Louder environments can make it harder for everyone to hear, but it becomes especially difficult for anyone with hearing loss. Crowded events often have lots of background noise and various people speaking at once. You might find yourself straining to hear when at a work convention or out with friends at a busy restaurant.
You Feel Drained After Listening To Others
We’ve all had days where we’ve reached our limit on socializing or had work meetings back-to-back and feel mentally exhausted. However, with hearing loss, this listening fatigue happens quicker and more frequently. That’s because your brain has to work harder than usual to process speech and understand what’s being said.
Your Short-Term Memory Is Worse
Because hearing loss puts extra strain on the brain, it takes up energy and resources meant for other tasks. You might have a harder time remembering what was said at an earlier work meeting or your last book club.
Others Have Commented On Your Hearing
Because hearing loss is gradual, sometimes the person who has it isn’t even the first to notice. If you’ve had a loved one express frustration over feeling like you aren’t listening to them or your spouse has told you that you’re turning the TV up too loud, take it as a sign to get your hearing checked.
Don’t delay scheduling a hearing test if you’ve experienced any of these. These exams are quick and painless and offer accurate insight into the cause and severity of your hearing loss. Your audiologist will work with you to find the right pair of hearing aids or other treatment options to give you the best hearing possible in any environment.
For more information or to schedule an appointment, contact All Generations Audiology, PLLC today.