Some people may have a hearing problem without realizing it. Others might think they have a problem, but are too embarrassed to tell their friends or family. You can help identify a possible hearing problem by asking yourself some key questions and, if necessary, having your hearing checked by an audiologist.
If a hearing loss is ignored or untreated, it can get worse. But a hearing loss that is identified early can be helped through treatment, such as hearing aids, certain medicines, and surgery.
Ask yourself some questions. Take a questionnaire online.
* Do people complain that I turn the TV volume up too high?
* Do I have a problem hearing on the telephone?
* Do I have trouble hearing when there is noise in the background?
* Do I have to strain to understand a conversation?
* Do I misunderstand what others are saying and respond inappropriately?
If you think that you have a hearing problem, schedule an appointment with an audiologist.
Source: National Institute on Deafness and Other Communication Disorders
(http://nihseniorhealth.gov/hearingloss/symptomsanddiagnosis/01.html)
