Your hearing won’t be just gone one day when you wake up. For most people, hearing loss comes in degrees, especially when it is linked to aging. You may not realize it’s occurring immediately but some indicators do appear earlier.
These initially developing symptoms progress very subtly. Delaying the progression of hearing loss and its related health challenges is a matter of early detection. However, you can’t recognize the signs if you have no clue what they are. You may be developing hearing loss if you notice any of the following eight barely noticeable indicators.
1. Some voices you can’t hear very well, others you can
Maybe when you talk with your brother, you can understand him fine, but when your wife speaks, some words just seem to get lost. It’s a typical indication that the nerves that transmit signals to the brain are damaged (called sensorineural hearing loss).
Her voice is higher in pitch, and that’s why it’s unclear. You may have the same problem with your grandchild or daughter. Even technology like the microwave or an alarm can throw a loop into things. Those are also high pitched tones.
2. You avoid phone conversations
When the phone rings you often make excuses for not answering:
- I get a lot of spam calls – that’s most likely what it is
- It’s a brand new phone, and I’m just not used to it yet
You dread talking on the phone, but why? It will be a good idea to get someone else to check the phone for you if the volume is at max and you still can’t hear what the other person is saying. If they are able to hear the conversation and you can’t, your ears are likely the problem.
3. Why is everybody mumbling?
It seems as if it’s no longer only the kids who are mumbling when they talk, it’s your neighbor, the news lady, your partner, and even your bartender. If it seems as if everybody in your life is mumbling, you’re probably dealing with hearing loss, because what is the likelihood of that? The way you hear words is changing. One of the first signs that something is happening with your hearing is when it sounds like people are mumbling and consonants like “S” and “T” are getting lost.
4. What?
It might not be until somebody points out that you’re saying “what?” a lot that you recognize you are developing hearing loss. Frequently the people you see on a daily basis like coworkers or family are the first to notice that you’re having a hard time hearing. If someone comments on it, you should pay attention.
5. Why do I hear ringing noises in my ears?
Okay, this isn’t exactly a subtle indication, but it is something people tend to dismiss unless it’s disruptive. A prevalent sign of hearing loss is a ringing in the ears, medically called tinnitus.
Triggers are an important factor in tinnitus so it can be periodic, too. For instance, perhaps the ringing, buzzing, or roaring only happens in the morning or when you are tired. Or, it could also be an indication of high blood pressure, circulatory problems, or trauma.
If you’re experiencing these symptoms you should make an appointment for an exam because they may be a sign that you’re having a health problem.
6. Joining your friends at the neighborhood BBQ isn’t as enjoyable
It’s no fun when it sounds like that many individuals are mumbling all at once. Also, being in loud settings makes understanding what individuals say that much harder. Something as simple as children playing and splashing around in the pool or the sound of the AC kicking on you makes it extremely tough to hear anything. And, you always feel fatigued from trying to focus in on conversations.
7. You feel more fatigued than usual
It’s exhausting when you struggle to understand words. Your brain has to work overtime to process what it does hear, so you are more tired than usual. You may even notice changes in your other senses. If your brain is utilizing 110 percent of its time and energy to understand words, what’s left over for your eyesight or balance? If your eyes have tested fine, now it’s time to get your hearing checked.
8. Why is this TV volume so low?
It is easy to blame your old TV or the service provider when you have to keep turning the volume up. It can be difficult to hear the dialogue on your favorite shows when you’re dealing with hearing loss. Dialogue is being jumbled by background music and sound effects. There are other things such as the room AC or ceiling fan to cope with. Your hearing might be failing if you constantly turn up the volume.
The good thing is, if your hearing is failing, hearing aids can help, you just need to get a hearing test.
Contact us today to schedule an appointment for a hearing assessment if you’ve noticed any of the above signs.
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The site information is for educational and informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. To receive a personalized free hearing test and hearing loss consultation, call today to set up an appointment.
