Hearing loss rarely occurs suddenly. It usually develops gradually, over a long period of time - and is therefore not noticeable at first. This is because affected people gradually get used to the onset of hearing loss. Because the brain can compensate for hearing deficits over a long period of time, there will be few disadvantages in everyday life in the early stages. But at some point, the hearing loss can no longer be compensated for easily.
Often, this is noticed by the affected person's family and friends long before they themselves realize that they cannot hear normally. Even people affected by hearing loss who know that they can no longer hear perfectly often do nothing for a long time. By arguing "It's fine!", they put off having their hearing checked by an audiologist or hearing care professional. This is because being aware of your hearing loss is one thing, but admitting it is not so easy.
The problem is that if you wait too long, you risk serious consequences. Researchers have found that after about seven years, our brains simply lose the ability to understand certain sounds. If you wait too long to get hearing aids, although you will be able to hear those sounds again, your brain may not be able to interpret what it is hearing correctly.
Signs of hearing loss are different for everyone. Here are some common signs to look out for:
Have difficulty keeping up with group conversations
Difficulty hearing in noisy environments (for example, in a restaurant)
Need to frequently ask others to repeat or speak louder
Feel like other people are slurring their words or speaking too softly
Sound can be heard but not clearly
Have to watch TV or listen to the radio at high volume
Tinnitus – ringing in the ears
It is easy to feel tired when working in a group.
Friends and family often comment on your hearing.
Have difficulty hearing on the phone, even in a quiet room.
