For some people, the onset of hearing problems is rapid and very noticeable. In the majority of cases, however, hearing loss occurs gradually. With relatively minor changes to your hearing function occurring over time, you may not realize that you’re experiencing problems straight away.

However, it’s important to identify potential hearing issues as quickly as possible. By taking action quickly, your audiologist can help to minimize your symptoms and retain as much of your hearing function as possible.

Hearing loss can present in various different ways, but there are some common symptoms that may indicate hearing problems. These include:

Difficulty hearing people in loud places

When hearing problems first occur, you may only notice a change in your hearing function when you’re in busy or loud environments. If you have trouble following a conversation when you’re in a restaurant or out for drinks, for example, this could indicate that your hearing function is changing.

Even if you don’t notice any hearing issues in other environments, such as at home or work, it’s important to consult with your audiologist. Symptoms of hearing loss aren’t always constant, but this doesn’t make them any less important.

Trouble hearing people on the phone

If you’re constantly switching the phone from one ear to another and trying to increase the volume, you may be having difficulty hearing what’s being said. Whilst you may want to rule out a problem with your device first, if the same issue occurs on different handsets or telephones, it’s more likely to indicate problems with your hearing function.

Finding it hard to identify where noise is coming from

If you struggle to pinpoint where noise is originating from, it could be a sign of hearing problems affecting one year. You may also struggle to differentiate between background sounds or be unable to hear them all together.

Hearing loss in one ear isn’t uncommon, but it can be caused by a treatable issue, such as a buildup of ear wax or infection. Visiting your audiologist at the first sign of symptoms will help to ensure any type of hearing loss can be resolved or minimized quickly. Leaving an ear infection untreated could cause irreversible damage to your hearing function, for example, but obtaining treatment swiftly could ensure that your hearing function is restored.

Ringing in your ears

Tinnitus can be one of the first signs of hearing problems, but you may not notice the symptoms at first. Tinnitus can present as a buzzing, ringing, whooshing, ringing, hissing or humming sound, and it may not occur all the time. Whether you notice a loud ringing in your ears at all times or a relatively minor hissing sound sporadically, it’s important to consult an audiologist to determine the cause.

Although tinnitus can have various causes, it’s often associated with hearing loss. If you’re experiencing tinnitus symptoms due to hearing problems, an experienced audiologist will be able to provide effective management and symptom reduction.

Recognizing hearing problems in children

Children may exhibit hearing problems differently to adults, so it’s important to be aware of how hearing issues can present in young people. In babies and infants, for example, not being startled by loud noises or not turning towards voices by the age of four months could indicate a hearing problem.

In older children, not responding when you call their name or being relatively slow to talk can also be indicators of hearing issues. With various treatments available, a qualified audiologist will be able to identify any hearing problems and offer appropriate treatments.

Getting help for hearing problems

General signs of hearing loss can include turning the volume up on the TV regularly, missing parts of conversations, feeling tired from having to concentrate on hearing and asking people to repeat themselves regularly. You may also find that other people notice your hearing problems before you do, so family and friends may advise you to seek professional advice.

With a comprehensive hearing test and diagnostic aids, your audiologist will determine whether you’re experiencing hearing loss and, if so, what form of hearing loss is present. In addition, an audiologist will be able to confirm the severity of the hearing loss you’re experiencing.

Once this information has been obtained, you’ll be able to discuss treatment and management options with your audiologist. With a range of tools designed to enhance hearing function, you needn’t be plagued by hearing problems for long.

To find out more about managing hearing problems, contact Audiology and Hearing Aid Services at (912) 351-3038.