Studies show that only 20% of people who could benefit from hearing aids actually wear them, and many wait up to ten years before seeking treatment. These statistics highlight the importance of addressing hearing loss early, as it can worse over time if left untreated. By seeking treatment early, you can improve your hearing and potentially reduce the risk of other health issues. But what are the early signs of hearing loss to look out for, and what should you do when you notice them?

Difficulty Hearing in Loud Environments

Loud environments like echoing restaurants or crowded spaces may be challenging if you are experiencing hearing loss. If you find it hard to follow conversations in these places and prefer to stay quiet, it might be time to schedule a hearing test. Pay attention to whether you can distinguish your friends’ voices over loud background noise. If you struggle with this, it could be one of the earliest signs of hearing loss. Getting a hearing test can help you address the issue early and improve your ability to enjoy social situations.

Frequently Asking People to Repeat Themselves

Do you feel like everyone around you is constantly mumbling or you are asking them to repeat what they said? If so, then you may be experiencing hearing loss. Having to ask people to repeat themselves more than once, or even asking them to look at you while they speak, is an early sign of hearing loss and you should schedule an appointment with an audiologist.

Turning on the Subtitles

Subtitles offer countless benefits, including the ability to pick up on little snippets of a program that you might miss otherwise. Turning on subtitles while watching TV or movies can be an early sign of hearing loss. If you find it hard to follow dialogue and need the subtitles to understand what’s being said, it might mean you are experiencing hearing loss. This can happen even when the volume is turned up. Paying attention to this habit is important because it can help you identify hearing problems early. If you notice you’re relying on subtitles more and more, consider getting a hearing test to check your hearing health.

Constant or Intermittent Tinnitus

Tinnitus can be characterized as any in-ear sound that doesn’t come from an outside stimulus. Most commonly, tinnitus includes ringing or buzzing, though some individuals may also experience humming, whooshing or even music. While professionals still don’t understand exactly what causes tinnitus, there is evidence connecting its frequency and severity to hearing loss in some cases. Whether you experience constant or intermittent tinnitus, it’s worth seeking professional help, which can help you rule out underlying issues like an ear infection and understand whether hearing loss may have some role to play.

Contact an Audiologist at the First Signs of Hearing Loss

If you notice any of these signs you may be experiencing hearing loss. Through diagnostic testing and hearing aid fittings where required, your audiologist can help you to hear better, and live a healthier life as a result.