Hearing loss is among the most common conditions that affect adults middle-aged and older. Most adults have a gradual hearing loss, starting about 18 years of age. Almost one-third of adults over 60 years of age and half of adults over 75 have meaningful hearing loss.
Hearing problems can affect your daily life. Everyday sounds are harder to hear. These can include doorbells, television, radio, automobile horns and alarms. Having a conversation may be more challenging. This can lead to not understanding instructions, advice or warnings.
o Do you strain to hear a conversation?
o Do others complain when you turn up the volume on the television or radio?
When you replied yes, you could be experiencing a hearing loss.
Hearing loss may be determined with a hearing test. If you have hearing loss, there are devices available that can help you to hear better. A hearing aid amplifies sound and is worn in or behind the ear. Equipment is available to help with listening to Television and talking on the phone.
Some hearing loss could be prevented. This includes noise-induced hearing loss. Protect your hearing by compensating attention to noises. Too much exposure to loud noises – lawn mowers, plane engines, automobile races or loud music – can result in hearing loss. When using headphones, adjust the volume to lower levels.
Speak with your primary care provider if you think that you are having problems with your hearing.
