Around 1 in 8 people aged 12 and over have some form of hearing loss. As we get older, it’s only natural that we will lose some level of hearing. However, there are many reasons why you might not be able to hear as well as you once were or are experiencing issues with your hearing. It could be a temporary issue such as ear wax buildup or an infection, or you might have a health condition or injury that is causing hearing loss, or your specific type of loss might be related to being in a noisy environment on a regular basis with no hearing protection.
Hearing loss can have a profound impact on your life, and the psychological effects of hearing issues can affect your life in many ways. The good news is that with the right treatment, you can regain control and improve your quality of life. This post will help you identify signs of hearing loss, so you can take the necessary steps to start living your life to the fullest again.
Shut Away
One major sign that you might be struggling with your hearing is that you are shutting yourself away from your family and friends and avoiding social situations. Reduced hearing can make it difficult to converse with others, especially in loud or buddy environments. If you are self-conscious about your hearing and you feel you struggle in social situations and, as a result, you’re spending more time at home, it could be a good idea to book a hearing test to discover what is going on and get the right type of treatment for you.
You’re More Irritable
Are you finding you’re more short-tempered than usual? People with hearing loss have to work harder to process information and listen to others or sounds around them, which can take its toll. You might find that you’re a little bit more short-tempered than you used to be or more frustrated over small things. If this sounds familiar, getting your hearing checked can help you remove the source of frustration and help you live a calmer, more enjoyable life.
You Turn Things Up
Everyone has a preferred volume number when watching TV. This will vary from person to person and TV to TV. However, if you notice that you need to turn it up a little bit more on a regular basis, not just for random shows, this could be an indicator that your hearing is not working as it once was and that you might be experiencing hearing loss.
Hearing loss is present at different levels and is not always sudden. It can occur suddenly after an accident or injury, but it is most likely to be a gradual decline in hearing, meaning you might not realise what is going on until it’s quite severe or more noticeable, e.g., having to listen to the TV or music at higher volumes.
Living with hearing loss can be challenging, but it’s important to know that there are simple assessments and treatments available to help. If you notice any of these signs, don’t hesitate to book a hearing test. Taking this step can provide you with the answers you need and put you on the path to a better, more enjoyable life.
