Did you know that hearing loss often goes untreated for 10 years?

It’s true: on average, it takes a person around 10 years to finally accept a hearing loss. That is not to say that someone will have a hearing consultation and then ignore the results for 10 years. It means that there may be little signs over the years that your hearing is not what it was but they are ignored.

Signs of hearing loss

It’s not always easy to pinpoint the moment you realised you had a hearing loss or even notice at all. Having to turn the TV up louder than usual is normally a good indicator. Some people say they just begin to experience life a little less vibrantly. Luckily, there are some sure-fire indicators that you can take note of:

• Asking people to repeat themselves often
• Finding group conversations difficult to follow
• Having difficulty understanding people on the phone
• People commenting on how loud the TV or radio is
• Struggling with conversations when there is a high level of background noise, particularly in cafes or restaurants
• Feeling like people are always mumbling when they’re talking to you
• Finding it tricky to establish the direction a sound is coming from
• Avoiding social situations because you are worried you won’t keep up with the conversation
• People in your life, especially those closest to you, have suggested you have a hearing loss

What to do if you’re experiencing hearing loss symptons?

If you think you’ve experienced even just one of these symptoms, it really is worth seeking the help of a hearing healthcare professional so that you can have a hearing test. Generally, healthy adults should get their hearing tested once every 10 years but once you reach 60, it is recommended that you have yearly hearing tests. The hearing healthcare professional will be able to give you a definitive answer as to whether you do have any hearing loss or if you are experiencing something else, such as an ear wax build up. If you do have a hearing loss, they will be able to talk you through which hearing aids would be most beneficial for your hearing loss and you will be able to try out some different aids.

Why does hearing loss go untreated?

Sometimes, the reason hearing loss often goes untreated is simply because a person doesn’t even realise they have a hearing loss. Sometimes, a loved one will notice a hearing loss first so it’s important to listen if they raise it with you.

Other times, people do realise they are not hearing so well but do not want to accept that they may need hearing aids. Unfortunately, there is still a stigma around wearing hearing aids. Hearing aids today are very discreet and exceptionally high-tech! There is no shame at all in accepting you have a hearing loss and fixing that with a hearing aid.

A hearing test is entirely painless, very easy and quick to do. A hearing loss can become worse the longer it is left untreated. The sooner you do something about it, the better for your hearing health. If you would like to discuss our hearing consultation process further, or are interested in having your hearing checked, please don’t hesitate to get in touch.