It’s estimated that between 3 and 4 million Floridians have hearing loss. And as a state with a significantly larger population of older individuals, how we identify and treat hearing loss is more important than ever.
Hearing is an essential part of communication that we use to interact with others and stay engaged in the world around us. When left untreated, hearing loss can cause many individuals to feel alone and disconnected. According to a study conducted by Johns Hopkins University, individuals with severe hearing loss who did not use hearing aids showed a higher likelihood of having dementia, compared to those who used hearing aids.
So, how do you tell if you’re losing your hearing?
Signs and Symptoms of Hearing Loss
Over time, many of us will experience declining hearing, but there are signs you can look out for to stay ahead of your hearing health.
Hearing loss can creep up on you, with indicators like difficulty understanding phone conversations, struggling to hear a doorbell or alarm, and listening to the TV louder than usual often going unnoticed for months—or even years—but these aren’t the only signs.
Look for these clues that your hearing may be waning:
Difficulty Hearing Through Noise
While we all may struggle to hear someone over loud music or booming speakers, in common public places like restaurants, you should be able to understand someone speaking to you over a table. Our brains can generally pick over background noise to hear when we are being spoken to, but if this has become more difficult in recent months your hearing may be on the decline.
Asking Others to Repeat Themselves
Do you find yourself constantly asking others to repeat themselves? Asking them to speak up? Maybe it even sounds like people around you are mumbling more? The truth is, the world isn’t getting any quieter—you just might not be hearing it like you used to.
Withdrawing from Activities and Social Gatherings
Is getting together with your friends and family less enjoyable because you constantly struggle to hear everything they say? Or perhaps you’ve lost interest in an activity that once brought you joy because the situations have become too difficult to navigate?
It’s common for those with hearing loss to struggle with conversation in social settings, resulting in them becoming more reserved and withdrawn. But as humans, we need social connection and interaction to stay sharp. Stay on top of your hearing health to ensuring you enjoy your favorite activities for years to come.
What To Do If You Suspect Hearing Loss
If you recognize any of the signs of hearing loss we mentioned or otherwise suspect your hearing is on the decline here are your next steps:
1. Find a Trusted Audiologist
Dr. Amanda Kluzynski at the MedRx Hearing Center specializes in hearing evaluations and hearing aid fittings. Located in Largo, FL the MedRx Hearing Center is backed by MedRx Diagnostics, a trusted audiometric brand for over 30 years.
2. Schedule A Hearing Exam
In your hearing evaluation, Dr. Kluzynski will take the time to listen to you, your questions, and your concerns. You can expect her to clearly explain the exam process and make informed recommendations for your treatment. As a new patient, you’ll even get a free hearing test.
3. Be Open-Minded
If you do need hearing aids, be open-minded. Hearing aids have come a long way from the clunky devices of years past. Modern hearing aids are designed to be streamlined and discreet with powerful technology to match. If you need them, Dr. Kluzynski will thoroughly train you on how to use your hearing aids.
Hear Better with Help from the MedRx Hearing Center
If you could relate to any of the signs above, it’s time to schedule a hearing test. Losing your hearing can seem scary, but hearing clinics like the MedRx Hearing Center are helping people all over the Clearwater, Largo, and St. Pete areas hear better every day. Getting ahead of hearing loss ensures that you don’t miss out on important moments, conversations, and activities that make life enjoyable.
Schedule an appointment with Dr. Kluzynski today by calling (727)584-9696 for your free hearing screening.
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Sources:
Types of Hearing Loss | Johns Hopkins Medicine
2023FCCDHHreport.pdf (floridahealth.gov)
New Study Links Hearing Loss With Dementia in Older Adults | Johns Hopkins | Bloomberg School of Public Health (jhu.edu)