Hearing loss is a common problem that affects millions of people worldwide. It can be caused by a variety of factors, including aging, exposure to loud noise, ear infections, and certain medical conditions. 

While it may be tempting to ignore the early signs of hearing loss, it's important to recognize them and take action to address the problem. Here are the top 10 signs of hearing loss and what you can do about them:

1. Difficulty hearing in noisy environments: Struggling to understand conversations in noisy places like restaurants or crowded rooms can be a sign of hearing loss.

What to do: Try using assistive listening devices or sit in quieter areas to make it easier to hear.

2. Frequently asking people to repeat themselves: If you find yourself frequently asking people to repeat what they said, it may be a sign of hearing loss.

What to do: Schedule a hearing test with a qualified audiologist.

3. Difficulty understanding speech on the phone: If you have trouble hearing and understanding conversations on the phone, it could be a sign of hearing loss.

What to do: Consider using a captioned telephone or other assistive listening devices for the phone.

4. Ringing or buzzing in the ears: Tinnitus, or ringing in the ears, can be a sign of hearing loss.

What to do: See a doctor or audiologist to determine the cause of your tinnitus.

5. Trouble hearing high-pitched sounds: Difficulty hearing high-pitched sounds like birds chirping or children's voices can be a sign of hearing loss.

What to do: Get a hearing evaluation to determine the extent of your hearing loss.

6. Avoiding social situations: If you find yourself avoiding social situations because of difficulty hearing, it may be a sign of hearing loss.

What to do: Seek help from a hearing healthcare professional and explore assistive listening devices.

7. Turning up the volume on the TV or radio: If you're constantly turning up the volume on your TV, radio, or phone to hear better, it's a sign that your hearing may be deteriorating. While it's natural to turn up the volume occasionally, if you find yourself doing it regularly, it's a good idea to get your hearing checked to determine the cause.

What to do: Get a hearing test and consider using assistive listening devices for the TV or radio.

8. Misunderstanding words in conversation: If you frequently misunderstand words in conversation, it may be a sign of hearing loss.

What to do: Schedule a hearing test and consider using assistive listening devices.

9. Feeling fatigued after social situations: If you feel tired or drained after social situations because of difficulty hearing, it may be a sign of hearing loss.

What to do: Get a hearing evaluation and explore assistive listening devices.

10. Family history of hearing loss: If hearing loss runs in your family, it may be a sign that you are at increased risk.

What to do: Schedule a hearing evaluation and be proactive about protecting your hearing health.

If you're experiencing any of the signs mentioned above, don't wait to get your hearing checked. Early detection and treatment can help prevent further hearing loss and improve your quality of life.

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For a complimentary hearing screening and consultation contact the following locally-owned providers:

Tinnitus and Hearing Experts

915-263-8413

Mission Hearing 

915-303-9200

missionhearingcenter.com