What Are the Signs of Hearing Loss?

Are you having trouble hearing what people are saying during a conversation? Do you find yourself having to ask people to repeat themselves more often than you used to? Do you keep the volume on your television so loud that other family members comment on it? If you said yes to any of the above questions, you may be suffering from a hearing loss.

What Causes Hearing Loss?

Hearing loss can be caused by many things. If you were exposed to a lot of loud noises – industrial equipment, rock concerts, loud machinery, road noise – and you were not wearing hearing protection, you may have damaged your hearing. Hearing can also deteriorate with age or be a genetic condition. Or you may simply have a buildup of earwax that is blocking your hearing.

Symptoms of Hearing Loss

In addition to having difficulty hearing people talk and hearing conversations on the television, your hearing may feel muffled, as if you’re hearing from a long distance away or through water. You may also experience symptoms of tinnitus. For some people, hearing challenges become so frustrating and overwhelming that they simply withdraw from social contact and communication.

Can My Hearing Loss Be Reversed?

In most cases, hearing loss cannot be reversed. If it is just a wax buildup, there are treatments that can help you loosen and remove the wax to restore your hearing, but most hearing loss requires more intervention. However, even if it is a permanent hearing loss, your ability to hear can be improved through a variety of treatments. Technology has improved to such a degree that many types of hearing aids are nearly invisible and work far better than older designs. In addition to hearing aids, some people with hearing loss are also good candidates for surgical treatment or cochlear implants.

If you think you may be experiencing signs of hearing loss, make an appointment today with the ear, nose, and throat doctors of Lakeside Allergy ENT. We can provide the latest tests to help you with your hearing.