It can be alarming to experience a decrease in your hearing capacity, especially if you don’t know what’s causing it. Fortunately, some consistent signs of hearing loss should alert anyone experiencing them. Read on to discover the common symptoms associated with this disability and how to recognize them so you can stay proactive about your hearing health.
1. Difficulty Understanding Words
Someone with hearing loss may be unable to discern what people are saying, even if they can hear them. If you find yourself straining to understand conversations or having difficulty understanding what someone has said, it could indicate hearing loss. This could manifest in the form of difficulty understanding words that are spoken from far away or even those spoken close to you. Hearing aids can assist with this.
2. Muffled Speech
Muffled speech can result from nerve damage in the auditory system, and make it difficult to distinguish between different sounds or comprehend conversations, even when you are close by. In some cases, the sound may be distorted or unclear. It is especially common to experience muffled speech in a crowded environment with loud noises.
3. Ringing or Whistling Sounds in the Ears
Some people with hearing loss may also experience ringing or whistling sounds in their ears. This is known as tinnitus and can be caused by damage to the auditory system or prolonged exposure to loud noises. It is important to note that this differs from a ringing sound you hear in a quiet environment, which could indicate an issue with your ears.
If you experience ringing or whistling sounds but are unsure if they are connected to hearing loss, it is best to consult a doctor for further investigation. HearCanada has a team of specialists that can help you determine the cause of your symptoms and provide solutions. The sooner you catch the issue, the better it is for your long-term hearing health.
4. Having to Increase Volumes
It could be a sign of hearing loss when you notice that you have to raise the television volume or constantly ask people to repeat themselves. This is because your ears may not be able to pick up sounds as clearly as before. This is the first indication of hearing loss for some people and should be addressed as soon as possible.
5. Unpleasant Sounds Are Louder Than Normal
If you find yourself feeling uncomfortable when exposed to certain loud noises, or find them to be louder than usual, it is a sign that your hearing may be decreasing. This could manifest in the form of feeling pain or discomfort when you are exposed to loud noises. If this persists and gets worse over time, it could be an indication of hearing loss.
Hearing loss can have a significant impact on your quality of life. Recognizing the signs and taking action as soon as possible is vital to preserving your hearing health. If you are experiencing any of the symptoms discussed above, it might be time to consult a professional to determine the cause and get suitable treatment.
