Your hearing Excessive noise and safety Protect your hearing

How can you tell if you or someone near you has a hearing loss? The cartoons below represent an exaggerated view of some of the ways people compensate for a hearing loss, but you may recognize a few situations as well.

Turning up the television or radio is a very common sign of a hearing loss. The appropriate volume may seem too loud to others.

Focusing on one speaker in a crowded or noisy environment is often especially difficult for a person with a hearing loss.

In a car, the engine, road or wind noise can make it hard to hear a conversation, the radio, or important traffic sounds.

People with a hearing loss frequently feel that others mumble or need to repeat what they’ve said. Often, a person will hear, but not understand, what’s being said.

Social occasions are often difficult for a person with hearing loss. Background noise, such as music or group conversations, can become overwhelming, making it impossible to participate in a conversation.

It’s easy to forget how much we rely on our hearing every day. Sirens, automobile horns, and other people are only a few of the things that we need to be able to hear clearly.

In church, theaters, and auditoriums, it can be very difficult to hear a speaker’s voice. Many facilities have assistive listening devices available for those with hearing loss.

Cupping your hand behind your ear can help a little, but it’s no substitute for a properly fitted hearing instrument. And remember - a hearing loss is more noticeable than a hearing aid!

Information & Cartoons brought to you by Starkey Labs.