Most of us have experienced (or will experience) moments of hearing loss at one stage or another throughout our lives – often it’s temporary or mild and resolves itself. Other times it can be a sign of something more serious or permanent. Seeing as there are many different types and causes of hearing loss, it’s vital to get a test if you’re experiencing any loss of or reduction in your hearing. A hearing healthcare provider can pinpoint the cause of your hearing loss and work out a plan to remedy the issue. While it’s undoubtedly always best to get yourself to an audiologist, there are some symptoms you can keep an eye out for (in a manner of speaking) to determine whether your hearing loss is related to a more acute issue, like compacted earwax, or something more troublesome, like a inner ear processing problem. So, let’s look at some common signs and symptoms of hearing loss.
Gradual or Instant?
Ninety per cent of those that experience hearing loss experience sensorineural hearing loss – it is the most common form but develops as a result of many different causes. Majority of those that develop sensorineural hearing loss develop it gradually (rarely does it happen overnight). If you’ve noticed your hearing has been gradually diminishing, it’s a good idea to seek a test from a trusted audiologist. The sooner you get tested, the sooner you can benefit from intervention.
On the other hand, if your hearing loss has occurred over a short period of time, this could indicate that it might be conductive – meaning that your middle to outer ear isn’t functioning properly – or it could be temporary noise-related loss of hearing. The best case scenario is that it could be reversed or may resolve itself over time, and at worst, you can set a plan in motion to maximise your hearing despite a more permanent diagnosis. This is why testing is crucial.
Other General Symptoms
Some other more general symptoms of hearing loss, and therefore signs it’s a good idea to get a hearing test, include:
- Others mention that you listen to the TV, radio, or your headphones too loud.
- Trouble understanding speech in noisier areas
- Trouble hearing people over the phone
- A feeling that you can hear people, but not understand them.
- Uncertainty over where a particular sound came from (sound localisation)
- Tinnitus (ringing in the ears)
- Getting startled by unexpectedly loud sounds (recruitment)
Book a Test Today
If you are experiencing some of the symptoms mentioned (and they have developed gradually), this could indicate that you are seeing the early signs of hearing loss. Alternatively, it could be something less serious. Ultimately, your experience cannot be confirmed with an internet diagnosis, so get yourself to a hearing specialist!
Attune is an independent hearing healthcare provider that delivers premium care to patients all around Australia. Attune’s audiologists and hearing specialists are highly qualified and professional and provide the highest quality of care possible. Get in touch with your closest specialist today.