Early Signs of Hearing Loss
Hearing loss is more common than many people realise. It often begins gradually and can go unnoticed for years. Because the signs are initially subtle, it’s easy to blame these signs on background noise, mumbling speakers, or simply getting older. But recognising the early signs of hearing loss is crucial not only for your hearing health, but also for your overall well-being and quality of life.
In this post, we’ll explore some of the most common early indicators of hearing loss and what you should do if you suspect you may have a hearing loss.
1. Frequently Asking People to Repeat Themselves
Do you often find yourself saying “What?” or “Can you say that again?”, more than you used to? One of the most noticeable early signs of hearing loss is needing others to repeat themselves especially in conversations with soft-spoken people or in noisy environments. While it might feel like others are mumbling, it could be your ears struggling to pick up specific frequencies or consonant sounds.
2. Turning Up the Volume
Another common clue is an increase in how loud you set your TV, radio, or phone. If family members or friends frequently ask you to lower the volume or complain that you listen to devices too loudly, it might be worth getting your hearing checked. This subtle change can be a sign that you are increasing the volume to compensate for hearing loss.
3. Trouble Hearing in Noisy Environments
Restaurants, family gatherings, or social events can be particularly challenging for people with early- stage hearing loss. Background noise tends to mask speech, making it harder to follow conversations especially when multiple people are talking at once. If you’ve started to avoid noisy venues or feel fatigued trying to keep up, your hearing may be part of the problem. If you notice that it is more difficult to hear at your favourite restaurant or coffee shop, it might be that you are not hearing as well as you used to.
4. You Feel Like Others Are Mumbling
It’s common for people with hearing loss to say, “I can hear people talking, but I can’t understand them.” This happens because hearing loss often affects the high-frequency sounds in speech like “s,” “f,” “th,” and “ch” which are essential for clarity. When these sounds become harder to hear, speech can sound muffled or slurred, even if the volume seems okay. This makes it feel like people are not pronouncing their words. It is quite often that people with hearing loss feel like everyone is mumbling.
5. Phone Conversations Are More Difficult
Phones remove visual cues like lip reading and facial expressions, making it even harder to understand speech if your hearing is declining. If you’re finding it increasingly challenging to follow phone conversations or prefer texting over talking, this might be a red flag.
6. Ringing or Buzzing in the Ears (Tinnitus)
Tinnitus often described as a ringing, buzzing, or hissing sound in the ears is commonly linked to hearing loss. It can be a subtle early sign that your auditory system is struggling. If you have recently noticed ringing or buzzing in your ears, having your hearing checked is a good idea.
7. Avoiding Social Situations
When conversations become tiring or frustrating, it’s natural to start withdrawing from social activities. You might skip dinner parties, avoid phone calls, or become less engaged in group settings. Unfortunately, this kind of isolation can lead to feelings of loneliness and even depression. Addressing hearing loss early can help you stay connected to the people and experiences you love.
8. Family and Friends Notice It Before You Do
It’s often the people around you who notice changes first. They might comment on how loudly you speak, how high the TV volume is, or how often you misunderstand conversations. These observations are usually pointed out to you out of care and concern. Instead of brushing them off, consider their helpful clues as a sign that it’s time for a hearing check.
What To Do if You Notice the Signs of Hearing Loss
In the early stages of hearing loss, these signs can be quite subtle, leaving you wondering if they are really there or if you are just imagining them. Getting a hearing assessment is the best way to find out how your hearing is going. Here at Focus Hearing, we are always happy to do a hearing assessment if you suspect you are not hearing as well as you used to. This way, we can reassure you or provide guidance if you have a hearing loss. So, if you have any signs of hearing loss, make an appointment to come and see us.
Focus Hearing is your local independent audiology clinic in Crow’s Nest, Erina (Central Coast), Mona Vale (Northern Beaches) and surrounding areas, dedicated to providing individualised hearing
solutions. Contact us today on 8402 1202 for expert guidance, comprehensive evaluations, and personalised care. Let us help you on your journey to a healthier, happier life. Reach out now and discover the difference exceptional hearing care can make!
