Most people do not wake up one morning and notice their hearing has changed. It happens so gradually that the people around you often spot it before you do. The good news is that the early signs are easy to recognise once you know what to look for.
1. The television keeps creeping up
If family members mention that the volume is loud, or you find yourself reaching for the remote more than you used to, that is worth noting. It is one of the most common early signs we hear about.
2. Conversations in busy places feel like hard work
Quiet, one-on-one chats are fine, but a restaurant, a family gathering or a noisy room leaves you exhausted from concentrating. Struggling to pick a voice out of background noise is often one of the first things to change.
3. You ask people to repeat themselves
Especially women’s and children’s voices, which sit at higher pitches. If “pardon?” has become a habit, your hearing may be telling you something.
4. The phone is harder than it used to be
Without lip-reading and facial expressions to fill in the gaps, phone calls can become tiring or confusing.
5. A ringing or buzzing in your ears
Tinnitus often goes hand in hand with changes in hearing, and it is always worth having checked.
What happens at a hearing test
A hearing test is straightforward and completely painless. We start with a friendly chat about what you have noticed, then carry out a full assessment in a comfortable setting. Afterwards we explain exactly what the results mean in plain language, with no pressure and no jargon.
If your hearing is healthy, we will happily tell you so. If it is not, you will leave understanding your options and free to decide in your own time. Recognising a sign early simply means more choices and an easier path forward.
Wondering about any of the above? Book a hearing test and we will take a proper look together.