Signs of Hearing Loss

Are you experiencing hearing difficulties?

Do you need to turn the TV up a little louder these days? Is it getting harder to hear what people are saying to you in crowded rooms with lots of background noise? Are you having difficulty hearing the phone ring? Do you often miss calls? You might be experiencing hearing loss.

But it’s okay. Hearing loss is more common than you might think. As many as 880,350 people in New Zealand live with some type of hearing loss, representing 18.9% of the population.

Hearing loss is very personal. You may start to feel that you are missing out on conversations. Or perhaps you already feel left out. But the good news is there are so many ways you can improve your hearing health, especially if you start early.

How do I know if I have a hearing problem?

  • I get annoyed when people mumble?
  • I ask people to repeat themselves, even when it’s quiet?
  • I have difficulty hearing in restaurants when there is a lot of background noise?
  • I find it difficult to work out what direction sound is coming from?
  • I find it harder to hear female or children’s voices?
  • I find it difficult to hear from a distance in quieter environments?
  • I get stressed from straining to understand what people are saying?

  • I need the TV up louder?
  • I seem to be shouting a lot?
  • I need to lean in when I am talking to somebody?
  • I have a family history of hearing loss?
  • I have a history of exposure to loud noise?
  • I have a medical condition like diabetes, heart, circulation, or thyroid problems?
  • I have a constant ringing in my ears?
  • I take medication that can harm my hearing? (ototoxic drugs).
If you answer yes to at least two of these questions, you might have hearing loss. It’s okay. You’re not alone. Help is available. It takes an average of seven years for someone with hearing difficulties to seek help. Take an online hearing test now or book an appointment today for a free basic hearing check, and you will be on your way to better hearing. The free basic hearing check is available to everyone aged 18 years and over.