Signs of Hearing Loss and why it's okay to get help

Afraid of a Hearing Test?
Here’s Why Getting Checked Is Actually Empowering

For many people, the biggest hurdle is simply scheduling a hearing test. Thoughts like “What if they find something wrong?” or “I’m not ready for hearing aids” can be enough to delay an appointment. Others feel their hearing “isn’t bad enough yet” and decide to wait until it becomes a more obvious problem. 

The truth is that knowledge is the most important first step. Having a hearing test does not mean you are required to take immediate action. It simply gives you valuable information about where you are today. This has been true throughout my entire career as a hearing care provider. Knowing is much less stressful than sitting in the unknown. 

I’ve experienced this personally as well. When I went in for an eye exam, I noticed some minor difficulty but didn’t feel it was “bad enough” to need glasses. I didn’t want to hear bad news, yet I knew I needed the information. I remember asking the provider to be gentle with me if the results weren’t great. The provider was kind and empathetic and helped me to move forward. In the end, getting the facts allowed me to decide what to do next—one step at a time. That same approach applies to hearing health.

Many people have hearing loss without realizing it, which is why hearing tests are recommended starting around age 55-60. While 55 certainly isn’t old, statistics show that one in three people at this age has some degree of hearing loss1. A common phrase I hear is, “I hear fine—everyone else just mumbles,” or “It’s only hard when there’s background noise.” If any listening situation feels difficult, it’s worth having your hearing checked. That way you can be empowered to take the next steps for you.

As a provider, I genuinely enjoy telling people their hearing is excellent. Those appointments are a win for everyone and a refreshing change from delivering more challenging news.

When should I get a hearing test? 
You should have a hearing test when you notice that something is off with your hearing or if someone mentions or asks about you not hearing well. Here are some key signs that it’s time for a hearing evaluation:

• Ringing in the ears
• Difficulty understanding speech
• Trouble hearing in background noise
• Frequently asking others to repeat themselves
• Withdrawing from social situations or feeling exhausted afterward
• Difficulty keeping up with or tracking conversations
• Balance or dizziness issues
• Sudden changes in hearing
• If anyone has complained about your hearing (or television volume)

Having a hearing test doesn’t mean you will “fail.” Think of it as a routine health check—an opportunity to confirm how well you’re hearing. And if the results show some difficulty, you’re empowered with the knowledge needed to make an informed decision about your next steps.

In my experience, understanding the truth is far less stressful than living with the unknown. Knowledge is power. Understanding your hearing gives you clarity and control—so consider scheduling a hearing check and take that first step toward understanding your hearing health with confidence.

Sources: 
1. https://www.nidcd.nih.gov/sites/default/files/Documents/health/hearing/AgeRelatedHearingLoss.pdf