Hearing loss is more common than you may think

Action on Hearing Loss (formerly the Royal National Institute for Deaf People) note that in the UK in 2011 over 10 million people were living with a form of hearing loss. That number is anticipated to increase in coming decades.

There are many different causes and types of hearing loss. Commonly, hearing loss is a consequence of the ageing process, but hearing problems will affect people of all ages.

For some, loss of hearing is gradual. It may not be noticeable until it affects day-to-day communication. For others, hearing may be impaired as a result of injury or illness.

House of Hearing‘s qualified audiologists can help you address hearing loss.

There are two main types of loss:

  • Sensorineural hearing loss, which is a result of damage in the inner ear, and
  • Conductive hearing loss, where the ability to conduct sound in the ear is impaired.

To learn more, click here.

Older man cupping hand to ear

How Good is My Hearing?

For many people hearing loss manifests itself as an inability to perceive high frequency sounds. High frequency loss makes speech sound less distinct; you will be able to see and hear people talking but it will appear as if they are mumbling and you may struggle to make out what is being said. Understandably, this can make social situations difficult, especially in busy spaces.

If you are concerned you may be experiencing hearing loss, begin by working through this short check-list:

  • Do people sound as if they are mumbling when they speak?
  • Is it difficult to hear other people’s voices in a noisy environment?
  • Do people remark that your television or radio is very loud?
  • Do other people’s radios or televisions sound too quiet?
  • Do you sometimes misunderstand what others are saying?
  • Do you find yourself guessing what people have said to you in conversations?
  • Do you ask people to repeat themselves?

If you have answered ‘yes‘ to any of these questions, you may benefit from a hearing test. Contact us to  request a consultation.

A brunette woman listening to a blonde woman whisper

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