Signs You Need to Have a Hearing Exam

We often take our sense of hearing for granted. We rely on it to communicate with those around us, to enjoy music and the outdoors and to stay aware of our surroundings. But over time, our hearing can deteriorate. According to the National Institute on Deafness and Other Communication Disorders, more than 48-million Americans have some degree of hearing loss.

If you think your hearing may be impaired, it’s important to see an audiologist for a hearing exam as soon as possible. Here are ten signs that you may need a hearing test:

You Have to Ask People to Repeat Themselves Often

If you find yourself constantly asking people to repeat themselves, it may be a sign that you have hearing loss. Try paying closer attention to the person’s lips and facial expressions when they talk. If that doesn’t help, it’s time for a hearing test.

You Miss Important Sound Cues

It sounds like doorbells ringing or cooking timers going off can be important cues in our everyday lives. If you find yourself frequently missing these cues, it may be a sign that your hearing is impaired.

You Can’t Follow Conversations in Noisy Environments

Conversations in noisy environments can be difficult to follow if you have hearing loss. If you find yourself straining to hear what people are saying or if you just can’t understand what they’re saying, it may be time for a hearing exam.

You Experience Ringing, Buzzing or Hissing in Your Ears

Tinnitus, or the sensation of ringing, buzzing or hissing in your ears, is a common symptom of hearing loss. If you experience this often, it’s time to see an audiologist.

You Have Trouble Understanding Women’s or Children’s Voices

Women and children’s voices are often higher pitched than men’s voices. If you have trouble understanding these types of voices, it may be a sign that you have hearing loss.

You Can’t Hear People Speaking on the Phone

If you find yourself constantly asking people to speak up on the phone, it may be because you can’t hear them properly. Many people with hearing loss experience difficulty hearing people on the phone.

You Avoid Social Situations Because You Can’t Hear Well

If you find that you’re avoiding social situations because you can’t hear well, it may be a sign that you have hearing loss. Don’t let your hearing loss keep you from doing the things you love.

You Have a Family History of Hearing Loss

If you have a family member with hearing loss, you may be more likely to experience hearing loss yourself. If you have a family history of hearing loss, it’s important to get your hearing checked regularly.

If you experience any of these symptoms, it’s time for a hearing exam. A hearing exam can help determine the extent of your hearing loss and suggest treatment options. Don’t let embarrassment keep you from getting the help you need. See an audiologist today!