Signs You Need to Have a Hearing Test

Many people take for granted the ability to enjoy life’s simple pleasures, like talking with loved ones, listening to music or participating in meetings. For those with hearing loss, these everyday activities can become challenging. That’s why getting a hearing test is so important – it helps ensure you can continue to enjoy those moments. If you’ve been delaying your hearing test, now might be the time to schedule one. Be sure to consult an audiologist if you notice any of the common signs of hearing issues listed below.

Difficulty Understanding Conversations

One of the most common early signs of hearing loss is struggling to follow conversations, especially in noisy environments. If you often find yourself asking people to repeat themselves or notice that you’re missing parts of discussions, this could be an indication that your hearing isn’t as clear as it used to be. This is particularly noticeable in group settings where multiple voices and background noise can make it challenging to focus on a single speaker.

Turning Up the Volume

Another telltale sign is the need to increase the volume on your television, radio or phone beyond what others find comfortable. If your family or friends frequently comment that the volume is too loud, or if you notice you’re continually adjusting it to hear better, it might be a sign that your hearing is declining. Gradually needing higher volumes to hear clearly is a common sign of hearing loss.

Ringing in the Ears

Tinnitus, or ringing in the ears, can be a symptom of hearing loss. This symptom of an underlying condition can present as a ringing, buzzing, hissing or clicking sound in one or both ears and may be constant or intermittent. While tinnitus itself is not always an indicator of hearing loss, it is often associated with it, particularly if it continues over time. An audiologist can evaluate your tinnitus and determine if it’s related to any changes in your hearing.

Struggling with Phone Conversations

If you find it increasingly difficult to hear people on the phone, this could be another sign that a hearing test is necessary. Phones transmit sound differently than face-to-face conversations, making it harder for those with hearing loss to understand speech. You may notice that you’re having trouble catching every word or that you need to switch ears frequently to hear better.

Missing Everyday Sounds

Pay attention to whether you’re missing everyday sounds, like the doorbell, phone ringing or birds chirping. If you realize that they’ve faded or are no longer noticeable, it could be a sign of hearing loss. Subtle changes in hearing can accumulate over time, leading to a gradual reduction in your ability to hear high-pitched sounds.

Talk with an Audiologist

If you’ve noticed any of the signs mentioned above, don’t hesitate to schedule an appointment audiologist. Early detection and intervention can make all the difference in preserving your hearing and staying connected with the people and sounds you love.