Hearing loss is a growing issue in the United States, with approximately 48 million Americans suffering from hearing impairment. While hearing loss may seem minor, it can greatly impact a person’s quality of life. It can lead to social isolation, increased stress, and even depression.
It’s significant to be mindful of the signs of hearing loss so you can visit a hearing clinic as soon as possible. Many people are uninformed of the subtle signs of hearing loss and may not realise they have a problem until it becomes more severe.
Some of the subtle signs of hearing loss to watch out for include:
1. You Can’t Follow the Conversation in Noisy Places
Hearing loss is a common problem among people of all ages, ranging from mild to severe. Various factors, including genetics, ageing, and exposure to loud noises, can cause it. While it is normal to have difficulty hearing in some environments, such as when background noise is present, it may be a sign of hearing loss if you have difficulty understanding conversations, even in quieter environments.
2. You’re Exhausted after Social Events
There are instances when you speak during events, and your brain must fill you in on what is happening. If you find yourself feeling exhausted after social events, it may be a sign of hearing loss. The strain of trying to understand conversations and the effort of struggling to keep up with the conversation can be tiring for those with a hearing impairment.
3. You’re Watching People’s Lips Instead of Making Eye Contact
Most hearing clinics note that patients watch people’s lips instead of making eye contact. This is because a person with hearing loss has difficulty understanding what is being said and is likelier to catch the words by watching the speaker’s lips. If you’re doing this, it is a sign that you should have your hearing checked.
4. The Volume on Your TV Keeps Creeping Up
Many people don’t think about the loudness of TV shows, but it is an important factor in the overall viewing experience. Sound engineers are constantly adjusting the audio levels of TV shows to ensure they are optimal for viewers. Unfortunately, this often results in programmes becoming louder and louder over time. If you constantly turn up the volume on your TV, it could be a sign that you’re having difficulty hearing the dialogue.
What to Do If You’re Experiencing These Signs
If you’re already dealing with the abovementioned signs, you must visit your hearing clinic immediately. An audiologist will be able to assess your hearing and determine the best course of action. Depending on the harshness of your hearing loss, your audiologist may recommend hearing aids, assistive listening devices, or a combination of both. With the right treatment, you can enjoy life’s sounds with improved clarity and quality.
Final Thoughts
Hearing loss can be a serious health issue affecting your daily life. If you have noticed these signs, speaking to your doctor or a hearing specialist as soon as possible is important to discuss potential treatments. Early diagnosis and treatment of hearing loss can help you maintain your quality of life and enjoy all the sounds of the world around you.
Country Hearing Care is a hearing clinic in Mildura that helps patients with hearing loss. Our team of experienced audiologists can provide comprehensive hearing tests, hearing aid fittings, and ongoing hearing care. Schedule a session with us today!
