Signs of Hearing Loss

Rarely does hearing loss occur suddenly. Individuals become accustomed to the ‘absence or reduced’ sound information and often ‘adapt’ during the gradual deterioration of their hearing. The end result of listening with impaired ears becomes the norm, when it is not! Often, those suffering from hearing loss attribute their inability to hear or understand speech to ‘too much background noise’ or others ‘mumbling’.

It has been said that the best way to make a hearing loss obvious is to do nothing about it. The following behaviours are common among hearing loss sufferers.

• Frequent requests for repetition.
• Complaints about others ‘mumbling’.
• Listening to TV or Radio at very high volume.
• Difficulty with telephone.
• Frequent inappropriate conversational responses.
• Denial of hearing loss and unwillingness to be medically tested.
• Domination of discussions.

If you suspect you or a loved one may have impaired hearing, consult a physician or see a qualified hearing health care professional.