Hearing loss tends to accumulate gradually over time, and many people do not begin to realize the symptoms of hearing difficulty until long after it began. Although hearing loss may happen suddenly — particularly after a traumatic event that causes irreparable damage to the hearing system — most often it develops over a number of years.
Hearing loss is quite common, and over 35% of Americans over the age of 65 experience some degree of impairment. Although hearing loss is incurable, there are a variety of assistive technologies and hearing aid devices that can help patients cope with their hearing loss and live healthy, normal lives. At Bay Area Audiology, we provide comprehensive solutions and support to patients with hearing loss by offering a wide variety of services to help combat this problem.
Hearing Loss: The Signs to Watch Out For
Because hearing loss tends to occur gradually, it can be easy to ignore the symptoms. Over time, as your hearing degrades, you may notice that you have to turn up the TV louder than you used to in order to catch everything that the actors are saying. Or maybe your family members have to repeat themselves more often before you are able to understand them. In fact, it is often others who notice our hearing loss before we do! If you notice any changes in your hearing then it is best to schedule an appointment with your audiologist, but here are a few signs and symptoms to watch out for that indicate you will need to be screened sooner rather than later:
- Difficulty hearing conversations in crowded places
- Others often sound like they are mumbling
- Television is turned up louder than it used to be
- A family member mentions that you do not seem to be hearing as well as you used to
Although finding out that you are experiencing hearing loss can be overwhelming, with the right support you will be able to live a perfectly normal and fulfilling life. We will work with you to determine the best course of action so that hearing loss will not have to impact your quality of life.
