Hearing loss is usually a gradual process, so the signs and symptoms are initially not always obvious.
Perhaps you have started noticing that your hearing isn’t as good as it used to be, or maybe there’s a bit of truth to your family and friends suggesting you need to see an audiologist.
Below are some of the common signs of hearing loss that you should look out for. Take note that these are just general checklists, and you still need a professional assessment.
- You often ask others to repeat themselves said
- People tell you that your radio or television volume is too loud
- You have a history of exposure to loud noise in your workplace
- You think people mumble a lot
- You have to exert effort to focus on what people are saying
- You find yourself straining to hear
- You tend to turn one specific ear to the television
- You find it hard to hear if there’s a lot of background noise (e.g. restaurants, shopping malls, large gatherings)
- You struggle more with children or female voices
- You sometimes can’t tell which direction sound is coming from
- You prefer to sit on a specific side of the table because you hear better from one ear
- People tells you speak loudly
- You find it difficult to hear from a distance in a quieter environment
- You sometimes miss the phone ringing or the doorbell
- You have a family history of hearing loss
- You take medication that can harm your hearing
- You have constant ringing (tinnitus) in your ears
You may be experiencing some signs of hearing loss if you find one or more of the above statements to be true. Seek professional advice from an audiologist.