Is it getting harder to hear what people are saying in crowded rooms with lots of background noise? People are unable to hear the phone ring? Often miss calls? These are signs of possible hearing loss. But it’s okay. Hearing loss is more common than you might think.
Did you know that 3.5 million Australian adults are affected? And as we get older, the incidence of hearing loss continues to increases, particularly if you are over the age of 50.
Hearing loss is very personal. People start to feel that they are missing out on conversations. Or perhaps they already feel left out. But the good news is there are so many ways that people can improve their hearing health, especially if they start early.
How do I know I have a hearing problem?
- It sounds like people are mumbling when they’re talking to me.
- I ask people to repeat themselves, even when it’s quiet.
- I get tired from concentrating to understand what people are saying.
- I have difficulty hearing in restaurants when there is a lot of background noise.
- I find it difficult to work out what direction sound is coming from.
- I find it harder to hear female or children’s voices.
- I find it difficult to hear from a distance in quieter environment.
- I need the TV up louder than others.
- People tell me I speak loudly.
- I feel I need to lean in when I’m talking to somebody.
- I have a family history of hearing loss.
- I have a history of exposure to noise in my workplace.
- I have a constant ringing in my ears.
- I take medication that can harm my hearing? (ototoxic drugs)
If anyone answers yes to at least two of these questions, they might have hearing loss. It’s okay. Help is available. It takes an average of seven years for someone with hearing difficulties to seek help.