Untreated hearing loss is linked with a variety of health conditions, including anxiety, depression and even dementia. In order to prevent or delay the onset of these conditions, it’s important to seek treatment for hearing loss promptly. The first step is to get a hearing test.
Below are the 10 most common signs of hearing loss to look out for.
1. You Frequently Ask People to Repeat Themselves
One of the telltale signs of hearing loss is constantly asking people to repeat themselves, especially when the speaker is facing away from your or if their mouth is covered.
2. You Feel Like Everyone Around You Mumbles
It’s true that some people do tend to mumble. But if you feel as though everyone around you is mumbling, this is a sign you could have a hearing impairment.
3. You Have Trouble Hearing in Background Noise
One of the most notoriously difficult listening situations for people with hearing loss is anywhere where background noise is present, like at The Table Bistro.
4. You Turn Up the TV Louder than Others Prefer
One of the most common complaints from the families of those with hearing loss is the TV is way too loud. If this sounds like your family, you may have hearing loss.
5. You Have a Difficult Time Talking on the Phone
Talking on the phone is difficult for people with hearing loss not just because of how voices seem muffled, but also because of the lack of visual cues.
6. Your Family Tells You that You Have Hearing Loss
It’s often the case that those who are closest to you notice your loss of hearing before you do. If your family is telling you to get your hearing tested, listen.
7. You Feel Fatigued After Long Periods of Listening
If you have hearing loss, it can be incredibly exhausting straining to make out what those around you are saying, which can lead to fatigue.
8. You Avoid Social Activities You Once Enjoyed
Hearing loss makes it difficult to participate in social activities, including ones you once found enjoyable. This has to do with anxiety about mishearing people and the exhaustion that comes from trying to keep up.
9. You Mishear What People Say
It’s common for people with hearing loss to respond inappropriately to their conversation partners simply because they mishear what is being said.
10. You Have a Family History of Hearing Loss
Hearing loss often has a genetic component. You should get a hearing test if you exhibit any of the above symptoms and hearing loss runs your family. For more information about the signs of hearing loss or to schedule an appointment with a hearing expert, call ENT of Athens today.