Hearing loss can present itself in many different ways. As one of the most common health issues in the US, it is easy to overlook. Typically, others around you will notice it first as they become frustrated with having to repeat themselves because you can’t hear them properly.
One in every eight people in the United States ages 12 years or older has a hearing loss in both ears. About 2 percent of adults ages 45 to 54 have a disabling hearing loss. To prevent these numbers from climbing, it’s important to know what the early signs of hearing loss look like.
Common First Signs
Look for these signs in yourself or your loved ones. If any of these are exhibited, then it is time to schedule a comprehensive hearing assessment.
- Turning up the volume of media (TV/radio, etc.)
- Asking people to repeat themselves
- Nodding in agreement even though you didn’t hear correctly
- People making comments about your hearing
- Using the “Speaker” option on phone calls
- Avoiding large gatherings and social settings
Why Does This Condition Go Untreated?
Based on how important our hearing is in everyday life, it would be expected that people would stay on top of their hearing care. Surprisingly, this is not the case, as there are many reasons for a person to neglect their hearing.
Cost — People sometimes overestimate the costs associated with hearing care. Most insurers cover hearing appointments and may even cover hearing instruments.
That’s why, at Holland Hearing Center, we have an insurance specialist on our team that has experience and contacts with all major insurance groups.
Embarrassed — Loss of hearing can be associated with age but not always. People sometimes have a hard time coming to grips with the fact that their hearing may be suffering at an earlier age than most.
Identifying these problems can greatly increase your chances of slowing the rate of decline and elongating the good health of your ears.
Bad Reviews — You may have had a grandparent who used a hearing aid and they never stopped complaining about it. This kind of “recommendation” stays with us, as it comes from our own family members.
It’s important to keep in mind that everyone’s experience will be different. If you’re struggling with your hearing, seek professional advice.
Presents Itself Gradually — Often patients just don’t notice that their hearing is at risk. Loss of hearing can happen at a very slow pace and by the time it’s affecting your everyday life, it can be hard to recover.
What Can Be Done?
Once hearing loss is acquired, it continues to progress throughout life, in large part due to presbycusis or hearing loss due to aging. A regular assessment will not only identify hearing loss sooner but also increase the chances of retaining the hearing capabilities that currently exist.
You can schedule your comprehensive hearing assessment here and one of our professionals at Holland Hearing Center will be able to help no matter your situation.
