Hearing plays an important role in your daily life. It connects you to your loved ones, brings your favorite music to your ears and so much more. Despite all it does for you, many people ignore early signs of hearing issues. An audiologist specializes in diagnosing and treating hearing and balance disorders, helping you maintain clear communication and overall well-being. Let’s take a look at five signs it’s time to schedule an appointment with an audiologist.
1. Ringing or Buzzing in Your Ears
A ringing or buzzing in your ears with no external source is a symptom known as tinnitus. It affects an estimated 10% to 25% of adults. While tinnitus may pop up on its own, approximately 90% of tinnitus cases have an underlying hearing loss. Occasional ringing after a loud concert may not be a reason for concern, but tinnitus lasting more than a week should prompt a visit to an audiologist.
2. Struggling to Follow Conversations
Struggling to understand conversations, especially in noisy settings, may be an early sign of hearing loss. Take note of how often you ask others to repeat themselves or speak louder.
3. Social Fatigue
With hearing loss, you might find yourself skipping social outings, like dinners at Local Table, because it’s exhausting to follow conversations in noisy settings. Ask yourself why you’re avoiding these interactions—if it’s due to the strain of communication, it may be time to visit an audiologist.
4. Increasing the Volume on the TV or Radio
If your family or friends frequently complain that your television or radio volume is too high, it might be time to get your hearing checked. Needing to turn up the volume significantly is a common sign of hearing loss.
5. Frequent Exposure to Loud Noises
If you work in a noisy environment, like a construction site or a music venue, or enjoy activities like concerts or shooting sports, your ears may be at risk for noise-induced hearing damage. An audiologist can evaluate your hearing health and recommend protective measures like earplugs to prevent long-term damage.
Schedule Your Appointment Today
Ignoring hearing issues can impact your quality of life, making conversations, work and daily activities more challenging. Don’t wait to address your hearing health. Call Today’s Hearing today to schedule your appointment.