As a Masters Qualified Audiologist and founder of A Better Ear, I’m passionate about helping people maintain good hearing health. Today, I’d like to discuss some warning signs of hearing loss so that you can recognise them and seek help if necessary.
Have you ever found yourself turning up the TV volume, only for others to turn it back down? This could be a sign that you’re experiencing hearing loss. Similarly, if you start missing everyday sounds like the microwave dinging or the indicators in your car, it might be time to get your hearing checked.
Another common sign of hearing loss is frequently asking people to repeat themselves. This is often noticed first by the friends and family of the person with hearing loss. You might also find yourself concentrating closely on people’s lips and expressions to understand what they’re saying. This can be especially challenging in noisy environments, such as cafes or dinner parties, where you may struggle to keep up with conversations.
Lastly, hearing loss can lead to communication breakdowns which can put strain on relationships. Misunderstandings can arise when one person insists they said something while the other is certain they didn’t hear it.
If you’re experiencing any of these signs, it’s essential to seek reputable hearing health care. Find yourself an adult hearing rehabilitation specialist who is committed to patient-centred care, clinical integrity, and expertise with empathy. Seeking help for your hearing needs can improve social connectedness with loved ones and reduce the social stigma associated with hearing loss.
Finally, if you ever experience a sudden onset of hearing loss on one or both sides, it’s a medical emergency, so seek assistance from your GP or Audiologist immediately. With prompt attention its possible that your hearing can make a full recovery.
Penelope is a passionate hearing health advocate and the founder of A Better Ear in Cleveland. Send your hearing health care questions to hello@abetterear.com.au and Penelope will answer them in a future column.
