When someone starts experiencing a hearing loss, most assume there is a single symptom – they can’t detect sounds. In reality, people begin to exhibit this problem in a variety of different ways.
Often, these don’t seem related to someone’s hearing but emerge in behavioral changes. This means that loved ones regularly spot them before the person with a health issue.
These are the symptoms to look out for if you think a person may have a hearing loss:
Problems with noisy places
One of the obvious signs of a hearing loss is when someone struggles to communicate in noise-filled venues.
In crowded cafés and bars, for example, you might find it difficult to exchange with the person next to you. Similarly, during a basketball game, fans’ cheers may diminish your ability to listen to friends speaking.
At first, those with a minor hearing loss will find that they can fill in the blanks in their conversations, and they’ll likely continue to live their lives without realizing there’s an issue.
But over time, this symptom will develop, and at some point, begin to affect their everyday communication – both at work and home with their family.
It’s normal for a spouse or close friend to recognize these subtle symptoms. But as soon as they’re identified, it’s best to seek help from a professional audiologist.
Issues socializing
Another hearing loss symptom that often goes unnoticed is when individuals begin to withdraw from specific kinds of social situations.
Initially, they might not be aware they are doing this. But soon, they’ll be actively avoiding loud environments as to them; these can seem challenging and exhausting.
This symptom is mainly found among people in their 50s and 60s. It’s a time when many people shy away from discussing what is often an easily treatable health issue.
Family members may also recognize a person’s behavior has changed but not know the real reason why they’ve now stopped wishing to communicate.
If someone chooses to sit at the back of a room or engages minimally in conversations, it’s often a sign that they’re experiencing a hearing loss and should see an audiologist.
Ringing in the ears
A symptom that some commonly associate with hearing loss is a ringing sound in their ears, known medically as tinnitus. But this can often manifest itself in different ways.
Some hear static noise while others witness a low humming sound. And many don’t believe they have a problem until a doctor asks them about it.
Tinnitus is common in individuals who’ve had ear infections as a child. People also acquire it after they’ve been exposed to very loud sounds – gunfire and explosions, for example.
Over time, tinnitus can make a person feel uncomfortable or irritable. Most will ignore these symptoms, as they believe there’s no effective treatment available.
In reality, there are many ways to manage this issue. If someone you know begins to complain about this symptom, it’s best that they see an audiologist.
What should I do?
If you or someone else you know has hearing loss symptoms, the best thing to do is book a hearing evaluation with Audicles.
We’ve been treating patients for 76 years and have three expert doctors. They’ll be able to identify any issue accurately you’re having with your hearing and find a great solution.
A hearing evaluation is a simple procedure, and it doesn’t take long to complete. Within ten minutes, we’ll be able to identify any problem areas and discuss a course of treatment.
Do you recognize any of these hearing loss symptoms or know someone else who might be affected? Why not contact us to request a callback? We’re ready to improve your hearing today!
