Hearing loss can be a difficult thing to detect. It’s like trying to detect a leak in your bathwater. At first, the water level just seems a little lower than usual. But over time, they both become more and more empty, and you find yourself getting colder.
The same is true for hearing loss. It can creep up on you gradually, making it hard to notice at first. But if you’re experiencing any of the following signs, it may be time to schedule a consultation with a hearing professional.
Hearing others, but not being able to understand them.
One of the most common signs of hearing loss is the ability to hear sounds, but not being able to understand what people are saying. This can be especially frustrating in conversations with multiple people, where it can be hard to follow the thread of the conversation. A recent study from the National Council on Aging found that among older adults with untreated hearing loss, nearly 25% reported having trouble understanding speech in a noisy environment, such as a crowded restaurant.
Asking others to repeat themselves.
Another tell-tale sign of hearing loss is having to ask people to repeat themselves. This can be especially frustrating in social situations, where it can make you feel self-conscious and isolated.
Feeling overwhelmed in loud public places.
If you find yourself feeling overwhelmed and anxious in loud public places, such as crowded restaurants or shopping malls, it may be a sign of hearing loss. This is because loud background noise can make it harder to hear and understand speech, leading to feelings of confusion and disorientation.
Turning up the TV louder than others want.
If you find yourself turning up the volume on the TV or radio to levels that others find uncomfortable, it may be a sign that you’re experiencing hearing loss. This is because as your hearing deteriorates, you may need more and more sound to hear it clearly.
Shying away from public gatherings. If you’re starting to avoid social gatherings because you’re having trouble hearing or understanding conversations, it may be a sign of hearing loss. This can be especially isolating for older adults, who may already feel lonely and disconnected from their loved ones.
Feeling exhausted after a day in public.
If you find yourself feeling exhausted and mentally fatigued after a day spent in public, it may be a sign of hearing loss. This is because the effort of trying to hear and understand speech in a noisy environment can be mentally draining, leading to feelings of exhaustion and burnout.
Reasons why people don’t treat their hearing loss
There are a few reasons why most people don’t treat their hearing loss. One reason is that it can be difficult to detect, as it often happens gradually over time. Many people may not realize they have a problem or may attribute the symptoms to aging or other factors.
Another reason is that there can be a lack of awareness or education about the causes and effects of hearing loss, as well as the available treatment options. Some people may not be aware that hearing loss is a treatable condition and may assume that nothing can be done to improve their hearing.
Another reason is that there can be a stigma associated with hearing loss, especially in older adults. Many people may feel ashamed or embarrassed about their hearing loss, and may be reluctant to seek help.
Lastly, cost can also be a barrier for some people. Hearing aids can be expensive, and not all insurance plans cover the cost of treatment. This can make it difficult for some people to afford the help they need.
However, it’s important to remember that early treatment can improve the chances of successfully managing hearing loss, and can help people reconnect with their loved ones and improve the quality of their lives. It’s important to address hearing loss as soon as possible and to explore all the available options to treat it.
If you’re experiencing any of these signs of hearing loss, it’s important to schedule a consultation with a hearing professional as soon as possible. The earlier you start treatment, the better your chances of successfully managing your hearing loss.
Hearing treatment can help you reconnect with your loved ones, by making it easier to hear and understand speech in a variety of different environments. It can also help you feel more confident and engaged in social situations, and less isolated and lonely.
So don’t wait, schedule a consultation with our hearing practice today, and take the first step towards better hearing, and a better quality of life!