Hearing loss is a common occurrence as people age. It can also result from various factors such as exposure to loud noise, certain medications, infections, head or ear trauma, congenital or hereditary factors, diseases, and more. Recognizing the signs of hearing loss is crucial for seeking timely intervention and improving quality of life.
Signs of Hearing Loss
You may have hearing loss if you experience the following:
- Straining to understand words when people speak to you.
- Frequently asking others to repeat themselves
- Missing parts of conversations or jokes due to unclear speech.
- Noticing that people often mumble when they talk.
- Needing clarification about meeting details you just attended.
- Playing the TV or radio louder than others around you.
- Difficulty hearing the doorbell or telephone.
- Finding it easier to understand speech when looking directly at the speaker.
If you identify with any of these symptoms, it’s advisable to schedule an audiometric evaluation with a licensed audiologist. An audiometric evaluation is a comprehensive diagnostic hearing test that assesses the type and degree of hearing loss, as well as speech understanding ability. This evaluation also includes a thorough case history and visual examination of the ear canals and eardrum.
While online written hearing tests can offer some guidance, they are not diagnostic tools. They may indicate the likelihood of hearing loss but should not replace a professional evaluation.
