10 Key Signs You Need a Hearing Aid

 

Hearing loss can sneak up on you, affecting your quality of life in ways you might not realize. Addressing hearing issues early can prevent further complications like anxiety, depression, and even dementia. Here are ten key signs you need a hearing aid, along with advice on what to do next.

 

  1. Out of Sight Means Out of Sound

 

If you find yourself avoiding phone calls and preferring to text, it might be because you have difficulty understanding conversations on the phone. High-frequency sounds essential for understanding speech can get lost over the phone, and without visual cues like lip-reading, it becomes even harder to follow the conversation. This can make phone calls frustrating and lead to frequent misunderstandings.

 

  1. Hearing Hurdles in Noisy Places

 

Difficulty hearing in noisy environments, like restaurants or social gatherings, is a common sign of hearing loss. Background noise competes with speech, making it challenging to focus on conversations. The low-frequency sounds in noisy places often drown out high-frequency sounds necessary for understanding speech, causing words to sound muffled or unclear.

 

Find out more about speech in noise. 

 

  1. “What?” Is Your New Favorite Word 

 

If “What?” has become your go-to response, you might be missing high-frequency sounds crucial for understanding speech. These sounds help differentiate consonants like “s,” “f,” and “th.” When you can’t hear these clearly, it seems like everyone around you is mumbling, making it necessary to ask people to repeat themselves frequently.

 

  1. Silence Is Non-Existent

 

Tinnitus, or ringing in the ears, often accompanies hearing loss. Approximately 90% of people with tinnitus also have hearing loss. Hearing aids with tinnitus management features can help reduce the perception of ringing by amplifying external sounds.

 

  1. Pumping Up the Volume

 

Do you constantly turn up the volume on the TV or radio to a level others find too loud? This could indicate a need for a hearing aid. Hearing loss reduces your ability to perceive sounds clearly, making you rely on higher volumes to understand speech. However, simply increasing the volume doesn’t always improve clarity and can even cause discomfort.

 

  1. Listening Is Now Exhausting

 

Straining to hear conversations can be mentally and physically exhausting. If you find yourself tired after social interactions, it might be due to hearing loss. The extra effort needed to follow conversations, especially in noisy environments, can lead to listening fatigue, making socializing feel like a chore.

A woman throws her hand up in exasperation during a video call.

  1. Bickering Is More Common

 

Missing parts of conversations can lead to misunderstandings and frustration in your relationships. Loved ones might notice you’re not hearing them clearly, leading to frequent repetitions and potential conflicts. Misinterpreting tones or missing jokes can also cause unnecessary tension.

 

  1. It’s Easier To Stay Home

 

If you avoid social gatherings due to difficulty hearing, it’s a sign that hearing loss is affecting your life. The fear of misunderstanding conversations and the effort required to keep up can lead to social withdrawal, resulting in feelings of isolation and loneliness.

 

  1. You’re Tripping

 

Hearing loss can sometimes affect your balance. The inner ear, which is responsible for hearing, also plays a crucial role in maintaining equilibrium. Damage to the inner ear can lead to unsteadiness and increase the risk of falls, especially in older adults.

 

  1. Family History of Hearing Loss

 

A family history of hearing loss increases your risk. Genetic factors play a significant role in hearing loss; if it runs in your family, you are more likely to experience it. Regular hearing tests can help detect early signs and allow for timely intervention with hearing aids.

A man looks at a hearing aid with his audiologist.

Start Your Journey to Better Hearing Now

 

If you recognize any of these signs, it might be time to consider getting a hearing aid. Contact American Hearing + Audiology today for a comprehensive hearing test and start your journey to better hearing.