Signs of hearing loss in adults

While hearing loss can happen suddenly, it can also occur over time. That means the signs are not always obvious. Answer the questions below to see if you have some of the common symptoms:

Signs that you may have hearing loss

While talking with others

• Do you strain to hear or struggle to keep up with conversations?
• Do you find it difficult to hear in the presence of background noise?
• Do you often ask people to repeat what they have said?
• Do you mishear what people say?
• Do you find yourself agreeing or nodding your head during conversations when you’re not sure what’s being said?
• Do you withdraw from conversations because it’s too difficult to hear?
• Do you read lips in order to understand what people are saying?

While doing everyday activities

• Do you find it difficult to hear on the phone?
• Do you turn up the volume on the TV or radio louder than others in the room prefer?
• Do you feel people are mumbling when they talk?
• Are you unable to hear natural sounds, such as rain falling or birds chirping?

When you’re alone

• Can you hear a persistent ringing or buzzing sound in your ear?
• Do you find it hard to hear on one side?
• Do you find it hard to tell where sounds are coming from?
• Does your own voice sound different?
• Do you feel pain or pressure in one or both ears?

What’s the next step?

If you answered yes to any of the above questions, you should get your hearing tested by a hearing health professional who specializes in all types of hearing solutions, including hearing implants.

Find a clinic 

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If you think you have hearing loss, it’s important you take action as soon as possible. Ignoring the signs can make things worse – as Teri W. discovered.

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