Do I Have Hearing Loss: 3 Signs to Watch Out For

Are you having trouble understanding the words you hear? Are you worried that you might be suffering from hearing loss? These concerns are among the most common issues handled by ear care professionals and hearing clinics. 

Hearing loss comes in varying degrees and happens due to various factors. Learn more about this health concern by reading our brief guide today.

What Is Hearing Loss?

Hearing loss usually happens when sound waves aren’t transmitted normally to the inner ear. The inner ear transforms the sound waves into electrical signals sent to the brain, which then interprets them as sound. When hearing loss happens, these electrical signals can’t travel properly, and the brain does not hear them. This can happen due to a variety of reasons, such as age, exposure to loud noises, or certain medical conditions.

What Are the Signs of High-Frequency Hearing Loss?

If you think that you may be suffering from hearing loss, it’s a good idea to schedule a checkup with a hearing specialist. One of the most common signs of hearing loss is a loss of the higher frequencies. This is referred to as “high-frequency” hearing loss.

Here are some common signs that indicate that you may have hearing loss:

• You hear an echo in your ears after a person has spoken to you
• You have more trouble hearing others when you have background noise
• You are more difficult to understand when you have background noise
• You have more trouble understanding women, children, and men with deeper voices
• You have more trouble hearing consonants such as the “p” and the “k”
• You have more trouble hearing the “s” and the “t”
• You have more trouble hearing words with more than one consonant such as “bread” or “there”
• You have more trouble hearing words that start with “s” and “h”

What If You Passed a Hearing Test, but You Still Can’t Hear?

At times, you might pass a hearing test but still have difficulty hearing on one or both ears. There could be several reasons for this, including the fact that your hearing loss is in the high-frequency range, which means it may be less evident in a standard hearing test.

1. Attention Deficit Disorder

If you suspect you have hearing loss, it’s important to rule out other possible causes. If you have attention deficit disorder (ADD), for example, you might feel that you are having trouble hearing others because you are distracted by something else in your environment.

2. Auditory Processing Disorder

Auditory processing disorder (APD), also known as central auditory processing disorder (CAPD), can be another cause of this type of hearing loss. This is a disorder in which the brain can’t process auditory information correctly, which leads to difficulty hearing and understanding sounds.

3. Hidden Hearing Loss

It’s also possible to have hearing loss that is not detectable by standard hearing tests. This is called “hidden” hearing loss.

If you feel you have this type of loss, you should see an audiologist to determine your hearing loss’s exact cause and severity.

Final Thoughts: Get a Hearing Test Today

If you have trouble hearing others, schedule a hearing test today to determine hearing loss. The sooner you get help, the easier it will be to manage your condition.

For your ear health concerns, visit Fraser Valley Beltone, a leading hearing clinic in Abbotsford and Langley. After receiving a hearing test, our hearing instrument practitioners will help you fully understand and get treatment for whatever concern you may have. Give us a call today to schedule an appointment.