Do I Need Hearing Aids? Understanding the Signs and When to Seek Help

Hearing loss can happen gradually, and oftentimes, we don't notice it right away. Whether due to age, prolonged exposure to loud noises, or other medical conditions, hearing impairment affects millions of people every year. The good news is hearing aids can help restore your ability to hear clearly and improve your quality of life. But how do you know if you need hearing aids?

In this blog post, we’ll explore the signs that suggest it might be time to consider hearing aids, the different types available, and how to take the first steps toward better hearing.

Signs you may need hearing aids

We’ve put together a list of symptoms and signs that it may be time for you to consider asking about hearing aids.

1. You struggle to hear in conversations

One of the most common signs that you may need hearing aids is difficulty understanding conversations, especially in noisy environments. If you find yourself frequently asking people to repeat themselves or you misunderstand words, your hearing could be compromised.

Common signs:

• Asking people to repeat themselves often
• Increasing the volume on the TV or radio
• Difficulty understanding speech when there’s background noise
• Feeling isolated during social situations due to missed conversations

If these challenges sound familiar, it could be a sign that your hearing ability is declining.

2. You have trouble hearing high-pitched sounds

Hearing loss often starts with difficulty hearing high-pitched sounds, such as birds chirping, children’s voices, or the sound of a phone ringing. This type of hearing loss is common and can gradually worsen if left untreated.

3. You have trouble hearing on the phone

If you constantly have to increase the volume on your phone or ask the person on the other end to speak louder, it may be time to consider hearing aids. Difficulty hearing on the phone is a common symptom of hearing loss, and addressing it early can prevent further strain on your hearing.

4. Family and friends notice your hearing loss

Sometimes, others might notice changes in your hearing before you do. If family members or friends mention that you’re having trouble hearing or not responding when people speak to you, it could be a sign that you’re missing sounds or speech.

What are your options?

If you suspect that you need hearing aids, it’s important to schedule an appointment with a hearing care professional. A hearing test can help determine the degree of your hearing loss and the best solution for you.

Types of hearing aids:

• Behind-the-ear (BTE) hearing aids: These are worn behind the ear and are suitable for most types of hearing loss.
• In-the-ear (ITE) hearing aids: These fit within the ear.
• In-the-canal (ITC) and Completely-in-the-canal (CIC) hearing aids: These are discreet and fit deeper in the ear canal.

How to choose the right hearing aid:

Choosing the right hearing aid depends on your specific hearing needs, lifestyle, and budget. A hearing professional will help guide you through the process and ensure you select the best option.

Next steps: get your hearing tested

If you’ve noticed any of the signs of hearing loss, such as difficulty understanding speech or feeling fatigued after conversations, hearing aids might be the solution you’ve been looking for. Don’t let hearing loss affect your quality of life - take action and seek the help you need. Early intervention is key to preserving your hearing and improving your overall well-being. A hearing test is easy and non-invasive, and it’s the first step to determining whether hearing aids could benefit you.

Remember, you're not alone. Hearing aids have helped millions regain their hearing, improve social connections, and enhance their daily experiences. If you think you may need hearing aids, reach out to the professionals here at Dipple & Conway today for a hearing test. Our qualified Hearing Aid Dispensers will guide you through the painless test, the results of which will enable them to create the perfect tailored solution for you and your hearing levels.

Book an appointment at our Norwich, Diss or Swaffham branch via our simple online booking form, give us a call, or visit our friendly and welcoming teams in-store.

For the Norwich brand, call 01603 626750, for the Diss branch, call 01379 642598, and for the Swaffham branch, call 01760 724777.