Hearing loss is a common symptom of aging but can ultimately affect anyone no matter their age. When someone starts experiencing hearing loss, it generally doesn’t happen just overnight. In fact, hearing loss gradually worsens over time, and those who experience hearing loss symptoms often don’t get the treatment and help they need until their symptoms are significantly worse. 

Since hearing progresses gradually, it can be difficult for some to notice signs. As experienced ear specialists of Omaha, we are here to help you notice hearing loss signs early, as well as help you throughout your entire hearing loss journey. Below, we go over some of the most common early signs of hearing loss and what you should do if you or a loved one is experiencing these symptoms. 

TV, phone or radio volume is up way too high

Are you not able to sit and watch your favorite TV show at the same volume that you used to be able to? Do you ever go over to your parents and their TVs or radios are way too loud? Since those who are experiencing hearing loss can’t ultimately hear as well, they often listen to too loud of sound volumes on their devices. If you notice this in yourself or a loved one, it may be a good indicator that you are indeed experiencing hearing loss, and you should seek ear specialists of Omaha to get on top of this right away. 

Find yourself or a loved one reading lips

Another warning sign to look out for is to consider where your loved ones look when you are talking to them. Most of the time people will look you in the eye when you speak, but as people’s hearing starts to go, they can compensate by looking at people’s lips instead. This is because they are trying to figure out what you are saying and fill in the gaps of what they cannot hear. They use their eyesight to try and make up for some of the hearing loss they are experiencing.

Difficult time when on the phone

Are you constantly saying “what was that” while talking on the phone? If you or someone you love is avoiding phone calls or has difficulty keeping a conversation on the phone, it might be time to get their hearing checked.

Can’t hear certain sounds

Some of the first frequencies that people can’t hear are higher frequencies, which in terms of speech means the consonant sounds of S, F, Th, Sh, V, K and P. If you or a loved one are having a hard time picking up these sounds, or mistaking one word for another, it might be time for a checkup. Missing these constant sounds can lead to a lot of misunderstandings and cause them to respond with mumbling or incoherent answers.

Hearing loss isn’t something that is super noticeable overnight. However, when left untreated, hearing loss can progress into a very difficult issue to manage. Keeping an eye out for these early hearing loss signs will help you and your loved ones reduce the challenges of hearing loss. 

At Active Hearing Health, we are your ear specialists of Omaha. Visit our website to learn how we can help you throughout your entire hearing loss process.