Hearing loss affects more than 10% of the United States population. Despite its prevalence, many people don’t notice their hearing loss, or they assume it’s not advanced enough to require treatment. While that belief is common, it’s not accurate. Even mild hearing loss can make communication difficult, impact your social life and cause trouble at work or school.
Let’s take a look at five signs it’s time to schedule a hearing test to help you catch it early.
1. You Keep Turning the Volume up on the TV
There are certain shows where it seems like the producers dialed the volume down far lower than necessary before airing. However, if you’re constantly raising the volume, it might not be because the show is quiet. It could be a sign that your hearing is fading.
2. You Get Tired on Communication-Heavy Days
Untreated hearing loss forces the brain to work overtime to understand speech. If you notice that your mental energy levels are lower than usual after high-communication days, hearing loss may be the culprit.
3. You Shy Away From Social Situations
People with untreated hearing loss often shy away from noisy social gatherings for fear that they won’t be able to keep up. If you notice yourself turning down happy hours at Pour Girls, dinner dates or any other events you used to enjoy, consider whether hearing loss is behind it.
4. Your Friends and Family Mention Your Hearing Difficulties
Because it’s harder to know when you missed a sound, it’s common for your friends and family to be the first to notice your hearing loss. If your loved ones have mentioned your hearing difficulties more than a few times, it’s worth taking a hearing test.
5. You Have a History of Loud Noise Exposure
Lengthy or repeated exposure to noise at or above 85 dB (about the volume of a gas-powered lawn mower) can damage hearing. While not a sign in and of itself, it’s crucial to consider your noise exposure history. Construction and factory workers and people who listen to loud music are some of the most frequently at risk.
Seeking treatment early is the best way to prevent hearing loss from negatively impacting your life. If you fall into any of these five categories, call Hampton Roads ENT ~ Allergy today to schedule your hearing test.