Top Signs You Need a Hearing Test

Having fair hearing is undoubtedly a great feeling, but most people don't know how to detect hearing loss once it occurs. Hearing loss is the third most prevalent condition in seniors, with more and more cases being found in younger individuals. There are numerous causes for hearing loss, ranging from the aging process to excessive noise exposure.

Hearing tests are essential to helping your audiologist determine the severity and cause of your hearing loss. With the information gathered during your exam, they will be able to recommend the most suitable treatment for your personal needs. 

Because hearing loss frequently occurs gradually, identifying problems can be difficult on your own. Whether it’s simply turning the television up louder than others in the room prefer or asking friends to repeat themselves when telling a story, it’s important to seek out the help of an audiologist if the symptoms begin to stack up.

To help you, here are some early signs to watch out for:

Frequently asking people to repeat what they say

Perhaps the first sign of hearing loss is having a hard time hearing people. Whether it is someone near you or at a distance, if you notice yourself asking people to repeat themselves, then you should go see your audiologist. Fair hearing allows you to make out sounds while hearing loss dissolves sounds so you can't make out words.

Turning up the volume too loud

Realistically, it could be the audio with the sound problem. However, once you spot that you often turn the volume up, it could be you are experiencing hearing loss. Watch out for your family's reaction; if they complain that the volume is too high yet to you it is barely audible, it is time for a hearing test.

Experiencing ringing in your ears

Tinnitus, a ringing in your ears can be harmless, but if it doesn’t go away or is recurring, you might be experiencing hearing loss. Tinnitus is also one of the questions your audiologist would ask you about during consultation.

Having troubles with external sounds and noises

Noises such as alarms, phones ringing or doorbells should be audible enough for you to hear. If you're having a challenging time hearing them or you simply can’t hear them at all, you should visit your audiologist, to see what the best treatment available is for you.

Hearing loss treatments depend on the severity and nature of the diagnosis. Typically, hearing aids are the most common treatment used to address mild-to-profound hearing loss. Hearing aids come in three common styles, behind the ear (BTE), in the ear (ITE) and in the canal (ITC), with variations in size and features available.

If you are experiencing hearing loss, don't hesitate to see an audiologist. No matter the diagnosis, your audiologist will find the best options for you specific needs.