Hearing loss can creep up on us without our even being aware that it’s happening. Because it’s often so gradual, we may not realize that it’s occurring. Sometimes it takes a family member or friend to bring it to our attention. Did you ever catch yourself really straining to read one time, only to proclaim to yourself: I need reading glasses! Rarely does one have such a distinct moment of clarity with hearing loss. But the problem still exists for many.
Statistics show us that 3 in 10 people over the age of 60 have a hearing loss, 1 in 6 baby boomers (ages 41-59) have a hearing problem and 1 in 14 young adults ages 29-40 already have a hearing loss.
Hearing Loss Symptoms
Signs of a hearing loss might include:
- Turning up the volume on the TV or radio
- Asking people to repeat themselves often
- Trouble hearing in noisier environments (parties, restaurants, car or plane)
- Difficulty hearing on the phone
- Thinking others “mumble”
- Trouble hearing women’s or children’s voices
- Giving the wrong answer/responding inappropriately in conversations – or just not responding because you didn’t hear the comment
- Tinnitus (ringing, hissing or roaring sounds in the ears)
- Having to see a person’s face when they’re speaking in order to understand better
If you have one or more of any of these signs, it still doesn’t necessarily mean that you have a hearing loss problem. Hearing loss can also be caused by a wax build-up. Earwax can sometimes act like a plug and block some of the sound going into your ear.
Taking The First Step
If you are having difficulties with your hearing, the first step is always to have your hearing tested by a hearing health professional or doctor. It doesn’t matter if you are sure that earwax is causing your hearing loss. The hearing health professional or doctor can also check your ears to be sure that wax is not causing your problem.
Don’t ignore a hearing loss or just let it go. The longer you wait to do something, the harder it is to find help.
What If I’m Okay With My Hearing Loss?
Hearing loss is not just about you hearing less. Those experiencing hearing difficulties may also:
- Withdraw from social situations that they once enjoyed because of difficulty hearing
- Feel stressed from straining to hear what others are saying
- Feel annoyed at others because they can’t hear or understand them
- Feel embarrassed to meet new people or from misunderstanding what others are saying
Ensuring good hearing health helps to promote the quality of life you deserve. If you ever feel some of these negative feelings are being provoked as a result of your hearing – or lack thereof – it’s perhaps a good time to consider seeing a hearing health professional. There are many things to stress us out in today’s World, but hearing loss doesn’t have to be one of them.
Especially since there are many good solutions out there. And people who can help. Don’t wait any longer to start hearing better and improve your life and the lives of those around you. Speak with a member of our team of hearing health professionals today at 1 (800) 903-6883 to learn how Eargo’s virtually invisible, insanely comfortable hearing aids can enhance your life.
Sources:
[1] http://www.betterhearing.org
[2] http://www.hearingloss.org
[3] https://www.ucsfhealth.org
[4] http://www.mayoclinic.org
[5] http://www.webmd.com
