Hearing is one of our most important senses. It helps us to communicate, listen to our favourite music and keeps us safe by identifying warning sounds. People, on average, take 10 years to seek help for hearing loss – so how can you spot the signs and what can you do to manage it?
Because age-related hearing loss can develop slowly over a number of years, many people can’t tell that their hearing is deteriorating. There are symptoms you may notice which could be a sign that your hearing is going:
Often people neglect signs of hearing loss because they feel embarrassed. Hearing loss happens to everyone and is a normal part of the ageing process. People are worried that a hearing aid will make them look old but in fact struggling to hear can is often what ages someone.
Act quickly
The sooner you seek help, the better your hearing is likely to be for the long-term and, if you need hearing aids, wearing them can help to slow the rate of deterioration.
Regular hearing checks
Having your hearing checked should be part of your regular healthcare routine, whether you are concerned that you may be suffering from hearing loss or not. Specsavers recommends that anyone over the age of 55 has their hearing checked regularly. Specsavers Audiologists offer a free, comprehensive hearing assessment that lasts only 30 minutes and will discuss your options with you if you have hearing loss.
Avoid overexposure
Any sound that is loud enough (typically over 85dB) and lasts long enough can damage hearing and lead to hearing loss. Tinnitus is a well-known side effect of spending time in noisy environments and it only takes one instance of overexposure to cause permanent damage, so if you are regularly exposed to loud noise, consider wearing hearing protection.
Make the most of life
For many, hearing loss can be incredibly isolating. Not only is it difficult to follow what people are saying, for some it can be a struggle to take part in the conversation themselves. Having hearing loss treated means you don’t have to miss out on the joke any longer.
For more information or to book a free hearing test online visit Specsavers Audiologists