Do you often have to increase the volume on the TV or ask others to repeat themselves? You may be experiencing hearing loss. However, if you catch this issue early with a hearing test, you can continue enjoying life’s little pleasures, like listening to music, enjoying the sounds of nature, and laughing with your friends. Below are a few reasons it’s time to schedule an appointment with an audiologist.

3 Tell-Tale Signs a Hearing Test Is Necessary

1. Difficulty Understanding Someone

Asking someone to repeat themselves doesn’t necessarily mean there’s a problem with your hearing, especially if you’re speaking to someone who has a soft voice or are in a noisy environment. However, if you have trouble catching parts of conversations or frequently need to hear statements multiple times before you understand them, you may be experiencing a loss of hearing. This can put a strain on your relationships with family and friends, who can become aggravated at these interruptions, even if you just want to hear what they have to say.

2. Increasing the Volume

Another common sign that it’s time to schedule a hearing test is a constant need to turn up the volume on your radio, television, or smartphone. While it’s normal to raise the volume if there’s a considerable amount of background sound — for instance, if there’s a storm outside, or if you’re listening to your headphones on the train — there’s likely an issue if friends or family members frequently note how loud the volume is. While the cause may be a simple case of wax buildup, you should still see an audiologist and get the issue checked out.

3. Missing Calls & Alarms

You should also get a hearing test if you can’t pick up certain tones or pitches. While the range of frequencies audible to humans narrows as we age, sounds like honking cars, ringing phones, and chiming doorbells should still be noticeable. If you can’t hear these sounds, the consequences can range from missing important calls to putting yourself in physical danger. A hearing aid is one solution that will help you stay alert of your surroundings.

If you begin experiencing these signs or notice that a loved one is exhibiting them, schedule a hearing test with the audiologists at Thames Hearing Services Inc. in East Lyme, CT. They’ll will walk you through their diagnostic hearing evaluations and help you find a hearing aid that fits your lifestyle. Since 1990, their team has provided the community with expert, compassionate care to make a difference in every patient’s life. To book an appointment, call (860) 739-1864. Visit their website to learn more about their hearing aid products.