Hearing loss can affect people of all ages and have significant impacts on communication, social interactions, and overall quality of life. Recognizing the early signs of hearing loss is crucial for seeking timely intervention and support. Early detection can help manage the condition effectively and prevent further deterioration. Dr. Kathryn McGee, Dr. Kelly Long, and Dr. Joi Murray at Carolina Hearing Institute in Irmo, Columbia, Lugoff, Sumter, and Lexington, SC, can explain early signs of hearing loss and when to seek additional help.

Identifying Early Signs of Hearing Loss

Hearing loss can happen at any age, and it’s important to be able to spot signs of hearing loss to understand when to see your audiologists in Irmo, Columbia, Lugoff, Sumter, and Lexington, SC. Signs of hearing loss may present differently at different ages and it’s crucial that you understand what these may look like.

Adults with early hearing loss may struggle to follow conversations, especially in noisy environments or when multiple people are speaking. They may frequently ask others to repeat themselves or misunderstand words. A common sign of hearing loss is the need to turn up the volume on televisions, radios, or phones. Others may notice that the volume is set uncomfortably high.

Adults may find themselves straining to hear in situations where they previously had no difficulty, such as during phone calls, watching TV, or in quiet conversations. Hearing loss can lead to social withdrawal as it becomes challenging to engage in conversations. Adults may avoid group settings, social events, or noisy environments where they find it hard to communicate.

Hearing loss in children can lead to delays in speech and language development. They may have difficulty forming words, learning new words, or following simple instructions. Children with hearing loss may not respond to loud noises, their name being called, or conversations around them. They may seem inattentive or unresponsive.

Similar to adults, children with hearing loss may frequently turn up the volume on devices or sit closer to the TV to hear better. Children with hearing loss may speak in a louder voice or have difficulty pronouncing words correctly. They may also rely more on visual cues to understand what is being said. Hearing loss can lead to changes in behavior such as frustration, irritability, or withdrawal from social interactions. Children may become quieter or less engaged in play.

Contact Our Audiologists Today

Make sure you can identify signs of hearing loss. Contact Dr. Kathryn McGee, Dr. Kelly Long, and Dr. Joi Murray at Carolina Hearing Institute in Irmo, Columbia, Lugoff, Sumter, and Lexington, SC, to learn more about hearing loss in both children and adults. Call for more information and to schedule an appointment today at (803) 424-2208.