If you wonder “do I have hearing loss?” you are not alone. There are signs. It may be as simple as not enjoying social gatherings as much as you used to because you can’t follow the conversation as easily as before. It could be that you notice high-pitched sounds are harder to hear. Perhaps specific letters are challenging, such as words with s, f, p and diphthongs (double consonants).

The human ears are advanced and perceptive sensory organs. Just as other parts of our bodies show the effects of wear and tear as we age, so do our hearing systems. We see this in various symptoms of hearing loss. Fortunately, we can identify options for many people who demonstrate signs of hearing loss.

Ignoring changes to your hearing can have serious consequences. Recent studies have demonstrated links between hearing impairment and numerous psychological and cognitive disorders, including depression, anxiety, isolation, fatigue, cognitive decline and dementia — with risk factors increasing substantially as the level of loss increases. Hearing delivers vital information to the brain. Although hearing well is a key component of wellness, many people have trouble accepting it when they don’t hear well. That’s why the most important step is to acknowledge the fact that you have hearing loss. Otherwise, you can’t move on to seek treatment.

About 1 in 5 adults has hearing loss.On average, people with hearing loss wait 7-10 years before getting treatment.80% of people age 55-74 years who could benefit from hearing aids do not use them.By age 65, one in three seniors has hearing loss.

Hearing loss is the 3rd most common health condition among adults.

Hearing problems can range from mild to moderate, severe, or profound. Profound hearing loss and “deafness” can mean the same thing; that is, very little or no hearing. Some people lose hearing only in one ear, although it usually affects both. Depending on the cause, hearing impairment can be temporary or permanent. A loud noise event may result in sudden hearing loss, although generally you lose your hearing slowly and it worsens over time. Physically, there are two types of hearing loss: sensorineural hearing loss and conductive hearing loss.

Family members are often the first to notice symptoms of hearing loss. It may be a long time before an individual admits there is a problem. If you have concerns about someone close to you, we recommend you seek help. With proper hearing care, symptoms of hearing loss can be eased, so the individual is less tired, and has more energy to engage in their environment. Want to join Mom or Dad at an appointment? That’s great. We encourage individuals to bring a family member or friend along, especially to the first appointment.