Hearing Loss: Signs and Causes

Kathmandu. Loss of hearing ability is not just a problem of old age. Loud noise, prolonged use of earphones, some diseases, and many lifestyle-related factors are affecting people's hearing ability.

Experts say that the problem of hearing loss usually starts slowly. Initially, a person may feel that there is too much noise around them or that the speaker is unclear, but in reality, this can be a sign of hearing loss. This is why the problem of many people goes unrecognized for years. But by the time they consider treatment, the problem has already progressed significantly.

Low Hearing Ability Can Increase These Problems

According to scientific research, the ears play an important role in transmitting correct information to the brain, as well as hearing sound. When hearing ability starts to decline, it becomes difficult for a person to understand conversations and communicate with others. Ignoring hearing loss for a long time increases the risk of stress, loneliness, and mental health problems.

What Symptoms Are Seen?

According to experts, the first sign of hearing loss is that people can sometimes hear sounds but cannot understand the words clearly. It is especially difficult to understand conversations when many people are talking at once or in a noisy environment. Scientists say that initial hearing loss often affects high-frequency sounds. In this condition, some words or letters may not be heard clearly, making the conversation incomplete.

Another common sign is repeatedly asking people to repeat themselves. When this happens many times, it should be taken seriously. In many cases, family members or close individuals notice this change first.

A third sign of hearing loss is turning up the volume on electronic devices. If a person has to turn up the volume of the TV, mobile phone, or radio louder than before, this can also be a sign of a change in hearing ability. Since this change happens gradually, many people do not notice it.

Difficulties seen during phone conversations should not be taken lightly. In face-to-face conversations, we can interpret the other person's facial expressions, lip movements, and body language. However, on the phone, one has to understand the meaning solely through voice. Therefore, even a slight decrease in hearing ability can be easily felt during phone conversations. If there is persistent difficulty understanding conversations on the phone, it may be a sign that testing is needed.

Constant ringing, whistling, or buzzing sounds in the ears are also considered important signs. In medical science, this condition is called tinnitus. It often indicates changes in the ear or auditory system. If such sounds persist for a long time, it is necessary to consult a specialist.

(Disclaimer: This content with advice provides general information only, for further information always consult a specialist or your doctor.)