Some people may be experiencing a hearing problem without realizing it. Others might think they have a problem, but are too embarrassed to tell their doctor, friends, or family. You can help identify a possible hearing problem by early recognition of symptoms and, if necessary, seeking medical help.

Behavioral symptoms of hearing loss

• asking others to repeat themselves
• avoiding social gatherings and other public occasions
• difficulty hearing a phone ring
• difficult hearing in a group
• difficulty hearing when in the presence of background noise
• trouble understanding speech that originates far away
• trouble understanding what others say
• turning the head or cupping the ear to focus on a certain sound or speaker
• watching television or listening to the radio at a much louder volume than others

When to seek help
Although hearing loss is not usually dangerous, it can affect your personal safety. It can also reduce how much you can do in the workplace and at home and limit you socially. It is important that you talk to your doctor about hearing loss anytime you cannot determine the cause of hearing loss. Other symptoms that require a trip to the doctor include the following:

• fever not controlled with acetaminophen (Tylenol)
• fluid or blood coming from the ear
• pain in the ear
• prolonged hearing loss
• ringing in the ears
• sudden hearing loss
• vertigo
• you take medications that affect hearing

Do not delay getting medical attention if your hearing loss is associated with any of the following:

• recent pressure changes (diving)
• recent or present foreign body in the ear
• severe trauma to the head

Hearing loss can affect communication. Understanding hearing loss and hearing test results can help you make informed decisions about treatment for hearing impairment. However, a consultation is necessary to determine whether other health problems are related to the hearing loss. To learn more about how doctors diagnose degrees of hearing loss, continue reading our Hearing Loss Diagnosis section now.