Warning Signs You Should Get A Hearing Test

Hearing loss can often be something that is experienced by many, but they might not even realize it. This is because, unlike some conditions, hearing loss tends to be very gradual and you won’t even notice that you can no longer pick up sounds that you used to.

While this might make it difficult to know if you have got hearing loss, there are some telltale signs that could indicate it’s time to go and get your ears checked out. Here we take a look at what these signs are and when it is time for you to get professional intervention to enhance your hearing.

What Is Hearing Loss?

Hearing loss is when you are no longer able to hear sounds in what’s considered the normal range which is 20 decibels (dBs) or better in both ears. Some people experience hearing loss in just one ear, others in both and it can range from mild to profound depending on the severity. There are four main types of hearing loss, sensorineural, conductive, mixed and auditory neuropathy spectrum disorder (ANSD).

Some are inherited, some can be caused by environmental factors and others can be caused by age. A hearing test can help you to establish if you have hearing loss, what type it is and how it can be helped.

What Are the Warning Signs You Could Need a Hearing Test?

When it comes to identifying the warning signs that you could need a hearing test, there are a few things for you to look out for.

If You Hear a Ringing in Your Ears

One of the signs that you might need to get your hearing tested is if you are experiencing tinnitus. Tinnitus is when you hear a sound such as a ringing, buzzing or high-pitched sound even when the room you are in is silent. While tinnitus is a fairly common condition and not something to worry about, it can indicate a hearing problem that needs to be seen to. For many, going to a hearing test and being put on an appropriate course of action such as hearing aids can help to alleviate the symptoms.

If You Find You Constantly Ask People to Repeat What They Are Saying

If you find that you are constantly saying pardon and asking people to repeat themselves, chances are that your hearing isn’t what it once was. Having to ask people to repeat what they’ve said can soon knock your confidence and you might find you aren’t participating in conversations as much as you would like. By booking in for a hearing test you can find out if this is the issue and get it sorted so you can be your confident self again in no time at all.

If You Keep Needing to Turn Up the Volume on Things Like the TV and Radio

When you are watching TV or listening to the radio, do you find that the volume number has slowly been increasing? If you are struggling to hear what is being said, then it could be time for you to go and get your hearing checked out. Keep an eye on the TV volume and if you find that you need to change it often and others ask you to turn it down, this could be a sign that your hearing isn’t as good as it once was.

If you Find Sounds Are Muffled and Hard to Distinguish Between Each Other

Another sign that you are experiencing hearing loss is if you find sounds difficult to distinguish between each other. It might be that sounds are muffled, or you can’t tell what sound is coming from where. Perhaps one friend has said something but you can’t hear what they said above noise from the background. No matter what it is, if sounds are more muffled and you can’t work out what they are, it is a good idea to get yourself booked in for a hearing test.

Get In Touch

If you find that you are experiencing any of the above symptoms, it is time for you to book in for a hearing test. Get in touch with us at Beltone Hearing Care to find out more about how to book a test and to ask any questions that you might have. We are experienced hearing health professionals who can advise you on the best steps to take. We can be contacted through our the phone numbers listed below. Our friendly team is happy to help!

• Campbell River, BC: (778) 560-3112
• Comox, BC: (778) 560-3103
• Coquitlam, BC: (604) 283-4430
• Duncan, BC: (778) 410-2166
• Nanaimo, BC: (778) 410-2529
• Powell River, BC: (778) 410-2167
• Sidney, BC: (778) 410-2536
• Victoria, BC: (778) 557-1704