7 Signs of Hearing Loss

Hearing trouble changes your life. It makes it hard to understand friends and family, enjoy music or television, and hear phones, doorbells, or smoke alarms.

Hearing loss is common and can get worse as we age. One in three people between the ages of 65 and 74 live with some hearing loss. Over the age of 75, about half the population suffers from the problem.

Typically, age-related hearing results from changes in the inner ear caused by aging. But it can also result from changes in the middle ear or changes along the nerve pathways to the brain. Sometimes, high blood pressure or diabetes plays a role. So can medications toxic to the ear’s sensory cells, such as some types of chemotherapy.

For most people, hearing loss is gradual. The average person takes seven years from the time they suspect they might have hearing loss until they seek treatment.

7 Signs of Hearing Loss

If you experience these symptoms, you should get your hearing tested by a qualified healthcare provider.

1. Muffled speech and other sounds
2. Harder to understand words, especially in a crowd
3. Difficulty hearing consonants
4. Asking others to repeat themselves or speak more slowly, clearly, and loudly
5. Turn up the volume of the television or radio
6. Withdraw from conversations
7. Avoid some social settings

Sound familiar? It might mean it’s time to get your hearing tested. Hearing tests are painless. You wear headphones or soft earplugs that connect to an instrument called an audiometer. Then, a professional can discuss options to help overcome your hearing loss.

Do Something About the Problem

About a third of the people suffering from hearing loss use hearing aids. It’s as natural as wearing eyeglasses to correct vision problems. Plus, hearing aids are getting better than ever. New hearing aids are almost invisible since they go in the ear canal or behind your ear. Some can even be adjusted using your smartphone.

Don’t Miss Another Word – We Can Help

If you suspect a hearing loss, talk to your doctor.

Whether you need a checkup, hearing screening, or help managing a chronic condition, Grady’s primary care physicians are here to help. Book your appointment online at gradyhealth.org, through MyChart, or call (404) 616-1000. With convenient locations across metro Atlanta, you’ll have access to expert primary care and Grady’s full network of specialty services.