If you are worried that you might have hearing loss, you aren’t alone. Many people lose their hearing slowly as they age.
It’s also possible to develop hearing loss due to noise. This is true at any age – and it can happen suddenly or over time. As many as 40 million Americans under age 70 may have a hearing problem caused by being around loud noise.
Start by talking with your doctor. Your doctor may refer you to a hearing specialist or other health professional for a hearing test.
Hearing loss can be frustrating and even dangerous. If you have hearing loss, you may:
The good news is that if you have a hearing problem, there are things you can do to hear better. That’s why it’s important to get your hearing checked.
If you have hearing loss, you may have trouble hearing or understanding family members, friends, or coworkers. It may also help to ask yourself these questions:
If you answered yes to some of these questions, you may have hearing loss. Take this quiz to find out if you might have a hearing problem.
Check out the links below to learn more about:
There are many products, tools, and devices that can help with hearing loss:
If you think you have hearing loss, a doctor can help you figure out which options are right for you.
To find out if you have hearing loss, the first step is to get tested.
If you are worried about your hearing, talk with your doctor. Your doctor or nurse may refer you to a hearing specialist or other health professional for a hearing test – or for help with your hearing. Learn more about doctors who can help with hearing loss.
Check with your insurance provider to find out if your plan covers the cost of a hearing test. Medicare may also cover hearing tests with a referral from your doctor.
If you have trouble hearing, your friends and family need to know. They can make small changes to help you hear better when they talk. Ask them to:
Loud noises can cause hearing loss – no matter how old you are. To help prevent damage to your hearing:
Learn about safe noise levels and how to avoid noises that can damage your hearing.