Do you struggle to hear when you are talking on the phone? Do you find it challenging to pick up conversations when you’re in a group setting?
Hearing loss is a medical condition. Surgery can only correct hearing loss in a small percentage of people, whereas medical devices and rehabilitation can significantly decrease hearing loss in many patients who cannot benefit from surgery.
The most common cause of hearing loss in children is otitis media. For the elderly, which is the largest and most vulnerable group affected, excessive noise, medications, toxins, and genetics are the greatest contributing factors.
Dr. Tim Skinner, an audiologist at White Wilson Medical Center, explains the warning symptoms of hearing loss. The following are various indicators that you may be experiencing hearing loss.
Even with a minor hearing loss, the most common difficulty is understanding speech, especially in noisy situations or when multiple people are talking. Observe how you interact at the next family dinner and note any complaints you have about people mumbling.
The next sign is having difficulties hearing on the phone. You may frequently respond by requesting the person on the other end to speak louder or repeat themselves. Another clue could be the need to raise the TV’s volume above its normal level.
When you have hearing loss, you will find it more difficult to enjoy social interactions. When a person withdraws from activities they normally like and lacks confidence in social contacts, it indicates a more serious loss.
If you or your elderly loved ones are experiencing any of these symptoms, contact your primary provider or visit the White-Wilson Audiology service for a hearing health evaluation. For more information, click here.
