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As we age, most people will suffer at least some hearing loss. This loss happens very gradually, so many times the person affected is the last to notice this. Here are some signs that it might be a good idea to get a hearing examination.
1. Do you keep the TV louder than you used to? Or do others think that your television is loud? Obviously, we turn it up to hear it better. Many also say that they can hear the TV, but have trouble understanding some people.
2. Do you sometimes think that people are mumbling to you? As you lose hearing in the high frequencies, voices will sometimes not be crisp anymore. Very few people really mumble very often, if it sounds like people do mumble, you probably need some help.
3. Do you have to ask people to repeat themselves, especially in noisy situations? If you are having some trouble in restaurants, or at family get-togethers, this is a sign of loss. Do you think that the children or grandchildren are loud and you can’t hear others when a lot of people are around? This is a high frequency hearing loss symptom.
4. Do you sometimes say, I can hear fine except for those people that are soft talkers? If others can hear them and you can’t, it isn’t them.
5. Do your family and friends ever say that you should get your hearing checked? Hearing loss is a very slow process, and the people around you may notice your problem before you are willing to admit it. I have found that if the family or friends think a person has some hearing loss, they are usually right. Take their advice and get an exam.
Hearing exams can be done in a short time, usually 10 to 15 minutes. They are not invasive and do not cause any pain.
There are many causes for hearing loss, and some are quite simple to correct. Having healthy hearing makes everyday a better day, and improves many aspects of your life. Many places will do a free exam, as we offer at the Oregon Hearing Center. Taking care of your health is your responsibility, and your hearing is a major part of your life. If any of these situations are happening to you, set up an examination soon. You will be very happy that you did.
Larry Mortemore, H.I.S., is owner of Oregon Hearing, 3241 Navarre Ave., Oregon.
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