May is Better Hearing & Speech Month. Founded in 1927 by the American Speech Language Hearing Association (ASHA), this annual event provides an opportunity to raise awareness about hearing and speech problems as well as encourage individuals to get their hearing evaluated.
This years theme for better hearing and Speech Month is “Connecting People.” As humans, we get a sense of fulfillment and happiness when we connect with others. For most, a quick exchange of words is easy and minimal effort is required in order to make connection. But, for someone with hearing loss, connecting with people can be quite the challenge.
It’s important to get your hearing evaluated so you don’t risk losing your ability to connect with others. Many individuals are living with hearing loss and aren’t even aware of it. Because hearing loss so often starts out as subtle, faint, or moderate — it can be very difficult to detect. Those who do pick up on some of the early warning signs of hearing loss may think to themselves, “it’s not a big deal” or “this won’t have a great impact on my life.”
However, ignoring signs of hearing loss early on will create for a multitude of problems later on. Hearing loss gradually worsens over time and can become very severe. Hearing loss is also associated with various other health risks and disorders. One who experiences hearing loss is more likely to struggle with one or more of the following problems: anxiety, social isolation, depression, balance issues, cardiovascular disease, diabetes, cognitive decline, fatigue, etc.
So, how do you know when it’s time to get your hearing evaluated? According to Healthy Hearing [link] these are the top 10 Signs You Need to Get Your Hearing Evaluated:
- You have trouble hearing on the telephone
- You have trouble following a conversation when people are talking at the same time
- Others complain that your TV is too loud:
- You’re tired from straining to hear conversations:
- You have trouble hearing in noisy environments
- You say “What” a lot
- People don’t seem to speak clearly
- You misunderstand what people say
- You have trouble hearing children and women
- 10)You become annoyed and frustrated during conversation
Connecting with loved ones, family, friends, co-workers, and even strangers is a vital component to life. When you take care of your hearing health, you won’t have to miss out on making these connections. If you are struggling with hearing loss, please schedule an appointment with us at Lake Shore Audiology. Our expert audiologists will perform hearing evaluations and help provide you with proper treatment. Call us today at (716) 674-4188.
Article Adapted From:
https://www.healthyhearing.com/report/43310-Ten-signs-of-hearing
