Signs Symptoms & Diagnosis

Everyone’s hearing is unique, so everyone experiences hearing loss in different ways. Here are some of the common symptoms:

• You often miss certain words or find yourself confusing words or misunderstanding conversations.
• You frequently ask the speaker to repeat what was said.
• Your family members or friends have expressed concern about your hearing.
• You avoid certain social situations (the theater, restaurants, parties) because it’s difficult to hear.
• You have difficulty understanding telephone conversations.
• You turn up the volume on the radio or television to levels that are too loud for others.
• You have difficulty following conversations in groups or in background noise.
• You have difficulty hearing outdoor sounds such as birds or the wind.

At Clear Choice Hearing and Balance, we recommend considering a hearing evaluation if you experience any of the following signs or symptoms:

Difficulty in Conversations: If you find it challenging to follow conversations, especially in noisy environments, or if you often ask people to repeat themselves, it could be an early sign of hearing loss.

Volume Control: If you frequently need to increase the volume on your TV, radio, or electronic devices, and others find the volume uncomfortably loud, it may indicate a hearing issue.

Muffled Sounds: If you perceive that sounds are muffled, unclear, or distorted, it's a potential indicator of hearing loss.

Tinnitus: The presence of persistent ringing, buzzing, or other noises in your ears may suggest an underlying hearing problem.

Social Withdrawal: If you start to withdraw from social situations or avoid group gatherings because it's difficult to hear and engage in conversations, this can be a sign of hearing difficulties.

Family and Friends' Concerns: Often, family members and friends notice hearing issues before the individual does. If they express concerns about your hearing, it's worth considering an evaluation.

Age and Risk Factors: Age is a common risk factor for hearing loss. If you're over 50 years old, regular hearing check-ups are advisable. Other risk factors, like exposure to loud noise, genetics, or certain medical conditions, can also contribute to hearing problems.

Balance Issues: Sometimes, hearing and balance are interconnected. If you experience dizziness or balance problems alongside hearing issues, it's important to seek a hearing evaluation.

Struggling with Phone Conversations: Difficulty hearing or understanding phone conversations, even when using the speakerphone, can be a sign of hearing loss.

Altered Perception: If you notice that you can hear some sounds clearly while struggling with others, this can be a sign of uneven hearing loss.

Here’s an easy test that looks at everyday situations where early signs of hearing loss may be evident:

1. Do you miss some of the dialogue while watching TV?
2. Do you fail to catch all the words spoken by a woman or child?
3. Do you not understand a conversation when there’s background noise?
4. Do you have difficulty understanding when several people are talking at once?
5. Do you have difficulty understanding on the telephone?
6. Do you sometimes not hear the doorbell or telephone ringing?
7. Do some noises bother you (dishes, cups, motors, appliances)?
8. Do you find music to be less enjoyable?

If you answered ‘yes’ at least once, it’s a good idea to have your hearing checked.