Hearing loss is usually associated with aging, although noise, poor hygiene practices and infections are some of the most common factors that can also affect our ears and hearing. In most cases, hearing loss develops gradually, and sometimes we are unaware that we are experiencing small changes in our hearing ability.

More than 3 million Spanish people suffer from hearing loss

Hearing loss is a rising problem in our society. According to data provided by the World Health Organization (WHO), more than 8% of the Spanish population is thought to be affected by it – more than 3 million people. Spain also stands out as the second noisiest country in the world, which makes it essential to try to limit noise levels around us, particularly in the case of young people who tend to listen to very loud music for several hours during the day. The Spanish Society of Otorhinolaryngology and Head and Neck Surgery (SEORL CCC) also warns that this abuse of noise is increasing the cases of deafness in young adults.

How to detect signs of hearing loss

Hearing loss usually develops gradually, so the symptoms are often difficult to recognize. In some cases, they can cause social problems such as isolation; physical problems ranging from mild headaches to increased blood pressure; and/or psychological problems such as depression.

It is important to remember that the later hearing loss is diagnosed, the more significant it will be. It may also be harder to prevent its progression and adapt to the solutions available. Below is a list of some of the symptoms of hearing impairment.

10 warning signs of possible hearing loss

  1. You have trouble hearing the television or someone tells you that it is turned up too loud.
  2. You fail to clearly understand a lot of what people say to you.
  3. You have trouble hearing someone who is calling your name from close by.
  4. You are unable pinpoint where noises or voices you hear around you are coming from.
  5. You constantly need to ask people to repeat what they have said to you and often read the lips of the person talking to you.
  6. You find it difficult to hold and follow a conversation in a small group of people.
  7. You have to strain to hear what people are saying to you in noisy environments.
  8. You don’t hear every day noises such as the ticking of a clock or running water.
  9. You often fail to hear the doorbell or the telephone.
  10. Your friends and family often tell you that you don’t listen to them or that you misunderstand what they tell you.

If you any of these 10 symptoms, we recommend you see a specialist and request an audiometric hearing test to assess your hearing health. Solving the issue will improve your quality of life!