SELF-CHECK

The signs of hearing loss usually emerge slowly. Take the self-check to determine if you or a friend or family member should have their hearing assessed.

• Do you hear people speaking but have difficulty understanding the words?
• Do you find yourself asking others to repeat themselves?
• Do people seem to mumble?
• Are certain female or children's voices difficult to clearly understand?
• Do you find it difficult to follow conversations in a crowded room or in groups of people?
• Do you ever avoid social situations because of your hearing?
• Do you find yourself having to turn the volume up on your television or radio?
• Do you ever respond or answer inappropriately in conversations?
• Do you have a family history of hearing loss?
• Do you take medications that may contribute to hearing loss?
• Have you been exposed to loud sounds over a long period of time?

An answer of "YES" to any of the above questions is an indication that a person should have their hearing evaluated.

A VISUAL REPRESENTATION OF HEARING LOSS

The first chart below represents normal hearing. The second chart represents the sounds that become indistinct in a typical hearing loss pattern.