Most people take their sense of hearing for granted until they lose it and realise how much they are missing. In most cases, an ear, nose and throat (ENT) specialist can correct hearing problems, but they can only do it if a condition is identified early. Therefore, hearing tests are crucial to preventing irreversible ear conditions that often lead to permanent hearing loss. However, detecting hearing issues can be tricky, particularly if you do not know how a healthy ear should respond. This might explain why some people do not go for a hearing test in time. As such, here are signs you need to see an audiologist for a hearing test.

Cranking Up Volume

Most people understand their audiovisual gadgets and know the right volume level based on their surroundings. However, if you notice that you have been gradually cranking up the volume on your TV, Hi-Fi system or portable speaker, it could be an early sign that you are losing your hearing. At first, it might seem like the gadgets in your home have a problem. However, if other people in a room complain that the volume is too high, then the problem might be your ears. Therefore, it is critical to be aware of how you respond to sound from external gadgets.

Missing Everyday Sounds

Bird chirps, doorbells and phone rings are just some of the familiar sounds you hear daily, even at a subconscious level. For instance, if you often listen to birds tweeting near your window at specific times, you will always expect to hear the sounds. Similarly, if you set your alarm to ring at a particular time, you will wake up when it goes off unless you are deep asleep. However, if you notice that you keep missing these sounds, it is a sign that you need to see an ENT specialist. For example, missing a doorbell once or twice a day is nothing strange. However, your ears could have a problem if you keep missing a doorbell or sleeping through an alarm.

Reposition Body to Hear

When you are in a group of people, and someone speaks from behind or the side, you should hear them. It means that you should not have to twist your neck or head to listen to what another person in the group said. Unfortunately, most people do not realise the behaviour until it is too late. If you find yourself repositioning your body to hear another party clearly, it is a sign you could have hearing loss.

Book a hearing test with an audiologist to help you establish the underlying cause.

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