Hearing loss warning signs
Hearing loss can happen at any stage of life. According to hearing loss charity Action for Hearing Loss, 11 million people in the UK have suffered some form of hearing loss. Also, more than 40% of people aged over 50 have hearing loss with that figure rising to 71% for those 70 years of age.
Hearing loss a common issue in the UK, but what are the warning signs and what treatment is available?
Signs of hearing damage
The first indications that you might experiencing hearing loss may be subtle and often they can be slow to emerge – but sometimes they can come on suddenly. Here are the warning signs:
- Hearing that people are speaking but not being able to understand what they say
- Mishearing what others are saying
- Think many people are mumbling
- Regularly asking others to repeat themselves
- Family and friends complaining that the TV or radio is too loud
- Feeling tired or stressed due to having to concentrate to hear what people say
- Find it difficult to hear people over the phone
- Avoiding social occasions and noisy environments because you can’t hear what people are saying
- Have difficulty understanding someone if they are in a different room
- Telling sounds apart
- Difficulty understanding what people are saying over background noise
- Finding it difficult to keep up with a conversation
As it’s one of our five senses, being able to hear is very important, and we are designed to communicate and engage with those around us. Having this sense taken away or impaired in some way can be damaging in more than just a physical way.
Hearing loss is not just an inconvenience, it can lead to social withdrawal, emotional distress and depression. Research has also shown that hearing loss can increase the risk of dementia. However, wearing a hearing aid can reduce these risks and helps you to carry on leading a normal life.
If you think you show some or all of the symptoms above, it might be best to have a hearing test. Luckily booking yourself in for a hearing test is free and easy. All you need to do is find your local branch and either book an appointment or pop in. A hearing test at Scrivens starts with a free hearing screening that takes 15-20 minutes. From the results of this hearing screening, we can determine if you need a full hearing health check.
We also offer NHS hearing services, to find out if you qualify click here. Our NHS services include a comprehensive hearing assessment, fitting of digital hearing aids (where required), ongoing aftercare support and a regular supply of batteries.
Call or pop into your local Scriven’s Hearing Care branch today.
