Hearing loss is usually an aggravating condition that can be caused by a variety of things. While hearing loss is often due to age or an injury, in some circumstances, hearing loss might be an indication of a more serious underlying medical issue.
Look out for these hearing loss red flags
There are a number of red flags that may be an indication of hearing loss and that it’s time to schedule a hearing test appointment. Here are a few of those red flags that should make you take notice.
Having difficulty hearing phone calls
You may be having a difficult time hearing phone calls even with the volume setting. If you are constantly cranking the volume up louder and louder on your cell phone or landline, you need to make an appointment as soon as you can for a hearing exam.
Difficulty following conversations
Although getting lost during a conversation isn’t always an indication of hearing loss, it might be a sign of hearing loss if you regularly have trouble processing the conversation when two or more people are talking simultaneously.
Family & neighbors are complaining about a loud TV
It can be a challenge to hear television programs, especially if music is combined with dialog. It’s worthwhile to know that cranking the tv up louder doesn’t always clear up the sound. But if you consistently need the tv turned up to a high volume that is uncomfortable for others in the room or if your neighbors are hearing your television, it is time to check your hearing.
Trouble hearing in loud environments
It normally means you’re struggling to separate speech from background sound if hearing in a public place has become difficult. This is one of the most common complaints of people who are experiencing hearing loss.
You say “what” a lot
If somebody is mumbling a few feet from you and you’re unable to hear them, that doesn’t necessarily indicate you have hearing loss. However, it could be a red flag that you aren’t receiving and processing speech correctly if the word “what” is the most used word in your vocabulary.
Failing to understand what people say
Misunderstanding what people say can be awkward and is frequently an indication of high frequency hearing loss. This means you are unable to discern the sounds of speech.
If you are experiencing any of the above red flags, you should schedule a hearing exam as soon as you can. Fortunately, the stigma that was once linked to hearing loss no longer exists, the testing is simple, and with the modern advances in hearing aid technologies, there is no reason for you to keep suffering with hearing loss.