Signs of hearing loss

Noticing changes in your hearing can be a frightening experience whether it happens gradually or suddenly. For most people, hearing changes very slowly over time and the early stages can often go unnoticed.

Mid shot of a man and a woman sat at a table having a conversation, the woman is leaning towards the man and focussing on his mouth

If sudden hearing loss occurs in one or both ears, it is important to visit the GP, audiologist or Accident and Emergency (A&E) department for urgent medical care. The first 72 hours are critical to assess the cause and begin treatment. Find out more information on our types of hearing loss webpage. 

However, the signs of hearing loss are identified, it’s important to not delay a hearing test. Ignoring hearing loss or leaving it untreated for a long time, can impact on all aspects of life from the ability to communicate well, relationships, mental health and more.

More about hearing loss

NHS Choices is the official website of the National Health Service (NHS) in England. Visit the NHS Choices website for further information about hearing and hearing loss.

NHS Choices website

Signs of hearing loss

Changes in hearing show in different ways, depending on the individual. There are a few signs in the earlier stages of hearing loss which most people experience. Here is a list of the most common:

  • Finding it difficult to understand speech, voices sound mumbled
  • Asking others to repeat what they have said
  • Conversations in noisier surroundings, such as pubs or restaurants, is more difficult and tiring
  • Concentrating more than before on a person who’s speaking. especially in groups
  • Turning up TV and radio louder to try and make speech easier to understand
  • Struggling to hear on the telephone
  • Difficulty understanding someone speaking from a distance such as from another room in the home or at a meeting/event

  • Becoming withdrawn from conversations or social activities.

     

What to do about hearing loss

People react in different ways after noticing that their hearing is changing.

For the individual noticing their own hearing loss, it may lead them to researching the subject online, while others have an understandably emotional reaction which leave them feeling vulnerable, worried or angry.

Family members may realise their relative is not hearing as well as they used to, before that person realises themselves. They may avoid mentioning it initially because they feel uncomfortable and wish to avoid embarrassment or further stress for their loved one.

Whichever of the common signs have been recognised, it is important to act and seek support.

Audiologist sat looking at a patient while he smiles and points to a screen

There will be a lot of questions to ask, including where and when to go for reliable, professional advice. Some people wonder what’s causing their hearing loss, whether they will have to use hearing aids and how it will affect their family, work and social life.

The good news is that there are lots of practical steps you can take to get a better understanding of what’s happening and what you can do so that you continue doing the things that are important to you. To find out more about seeking help for hearing loss, visit our webpage.