What are the five signs of hearing loss?

Depending on the type and severity of the problem, hearing loss can present itself in a number of ways. Learning about the common signs of hearing loss will help you be more aware of the red flags in hearing.

While some people have trouble hearing in both ears, others only have hearing loss in one ear.

Early hearing loss is frequently difficult to identify. It is possible for it to gradually take hold of you until it is so severe that you find it difficult to follow conversations and lose out on sounds that you used to pick up on with ease. This is why it’s crucial to have frequent hearing tests.

The type and intensity of hearing loss symptoms vary. Hearing loss can be identified by an audiologist or other hearing healthcare practitioner. 

Signs of Hearing Loss

The most common signs of hearing loss are listed below in no particular order:

Difficulty hearing in crowded places

In discussions with patients diagnosed with hearing loss, the ability to hear in noisy settings is a subject that frequently comes up. Some have no trouble having one-on-one conversations or even chats in small groups. However, they frequently have a very difficult time comprehending what people are saying when in a large crowd.

Patients who express difficulty hearing in crowded places also claim to have some challenges hearing the consonants “F,” “S,” and “H.” It’s probable that you have some form of high-frequency hearing loss if you are experiencing these symptoms.

Listening fatigue

You may be suffering from listening fatigue if you have to strain to understand what is being said and feel more worn out than normal. The ears are responsible for picking up sounds but the brain is the one who interprets what you heard. If you have problems with hearing, the brain will need additional effort to interpret sounds the way it was wired to do. If your auditory system is impaired, your brain will have to work much harder to interpret the noises it is receiving. Don’t hesitate to get your hearing checked if you’ve come to a point when you experience listening fatigue at the end of the day.

Tinnitus

According to the Centers for Disease Control, tinnitus affects more than 50 million individuals in the United States, making it one of the most prevalent health problems in the country.

Presbycusis and noise-induced hearing loss can trigger tinnitus symptoms. Hearing experts believe that tinnitus is the brain’s attempt to compensate for the absence of specific frequencies in your auditory system. 

If you hear ringing or buzzing in your ears, don’t take it for granted as these could be early signs of hearing loss. 

Amplifying volume more than usual

Have you been increasing the volume of the TV or radio higher than usual? Do you notice the people in the same room with you complain about the loudness of your preferred volume setting? Take heed of these signs because you could be experiencing hearing loss. 

Hearing loss may occur gradually which is why it’s very important to take note of changes in your hearing and communication patterns. 

Early detection is key in treating or addressing hearing loss, preventing it from getting worse.

Difficulty following group conversations

With aging, one becomes less able to understand a variety of incoming and opposing noises. It’s not always a sign of hearing loss if you occasionally find it difficult to follow a conversation. 

However, if you find that you frequently find it difficult to follow a conversation where two or more people are speaking at once, you may need to have your hearing checked.

Got signs of hearing loss? See an audiologist today!

The majority of hearing loss types cannot be reversed. However, you can take steps to enhance your hearing with the help of an audiologist. 

Seek immediate medical help if you experience sudden hearing loss, particularly in one ear.

HearCare Audiology provides comprehensive hearing care services in Fort Wayne, IN, and nearby locations.

Contact us today to schedule an appointment!

Are You Ready To Hear Better?

Hearing better starts with a diagnostic hearing test to pinpoint the strengths and weaknesses of your hearing and a conversation with a hearing health care professional to determine what measures you can take to improve your hearing.

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