“I can hear you, but I’m not quite sure what you said.”
“Kids these days talk so fast.”
“Why does it sound like everyone is mumbling?”
Do any of these phrases apply to you? If you can relate, then it might be the right time to get your hearing checked – especially because hearing loss can hinder your quality of life.
Approximately 36 million Americans suffer from some type of hearing loss. There are generally two types: age-related hearing loss and noise-induced hearing loss.
Take our hearing-loss quiz:
- Y/N Do you find yourself asking people to repeat themselves?
- Y/N Do you and/or others feel frustrated during conversations because you have difficulty hearing them?
- Y/N Do many people with whom you speak seem to mumble (or not speak clearly)?
- Y/N Do you have a problem hearing over the telephone?
- Y/N Do you have trouble hearing your own conversations in a noisy place, such as restaurants?
- Y/N Do you have trouble hearing movies in the movie theater?
- Y/N Do others constantly tell you that your TV volume is too loud?
- Y/N Do you have dizziness, pain or ringing in your ears?
- Y/N Do you have to strain to understand conversation?
- Y/N Do you have trouble following a conversation with two or more people talking at the same time?
If you answered “yes” to three or more of these questions, you may need to seek professional help.
There are several ways to prevent and/or aid hearing loss through daily lifestyle changes.
- If you are exposed to loud noise, wear protection such as earplugs or earmuffs.
- Turn down the volume of televisions and audio players, especially when listening through ear/headphones.
- Try to stay away from loud noises as much as possible.
Concerned about your hearing?
Call 706-721-6009, or visit augustahealth.org/make-an-appointment to schedule an appointment with an audiologist or learn more about our audiology services.
Sources: American Academy of Audiology, nytimes.com Personal Health Blog, National Institutes of Health
