Common signs of hearing loss to know

Hearing loss is common, but in the early stages, it can be hard to recognise. Usually, it happens gradually and starts by being barely noticeable. However, even at the beginning, there may be some signs that you should take action.

What to do

If you suffer a sudden hearing loss in either or both of your ears, treat this seriously. In these circumstances, make an urgent appointment with your GP or visit an urgent treatment centre, as sometimes this can be a sign of something that has a narrow window of opportunity to treat effectively.

For gradual hearing loss, it is not as urgent, but it is still sensible to get a hearing test as soon as you can. To find out where to get a hearing test near you, use a relevant internet search term. For example, a search for a hearing test Cheltenham will give you results like www.imperialhearing.com/audiologist-near-me/cheltenham/.

Signs to look out for

Signs of hearing loss to look out for, either in yourself or others, include finding it difficult to follow conversations, particularly in busy places with lots of ambient noise like restaurants and pubs. You may also find that you are frequently having to ask others to repeat themselves, perhaps because to you, it sounds as if they are mumbling. It can also start getting difficult to hear people when talking on the phone.

If you live with other people, they may be complaining that you do not listen to them or that you are turning up the TV to an uncomfortable volume.