Hearing is one of the senses we depend on most. Yet, many people have difficulty recognizing a hearing problem when it arises. The American Academy of Audiology reports, when people experience hearing difficulties, they wait an average of 7 to 10 years before seeking help.

"The key is to recognize that a hearing problem may be affecting your lifestyle," recommends Meredith Saito, Au.D, M.S., PAMF Audiology. She advises people to watch for the following clues.

• Straining or working harder to hear during normal conversation three feet away or less
  
• Frequently misunderstanding what other people are saying or having to ask them to repeat themselves
  
• Turning the television up to such a loud volume that it bothers those around you

If you suspect you may have hearing loss, talk to your primary care physician. He or she will refer you for a full hearing test. An audiologist will help determine if there is a hearing impairment, as well as the type and degree of the hearing loss.

If the problem requires medical attention, the audiologist will recommend that your doctor refer you to an otolaryngologist – a physician who treats ear, nose and throat problems.

If the hearing loss is due to a nerve problem, hearing aids may be recommended. Also, other assistive devices might be helpful, such as an amplified telephone, wireless TV amplifier or a device that amplifies items like doorbells or smoke alarms. You may also be referred for aural (communication) rehabilitation therapy, in which you practice activities like listening strategies and lip reading.

Prevention is of hearing loss is key. One loud noise exposure or repeated exposure can cause progressive permanent damage to your hearing, but you may not notice it until you’re older. In general when it’s noisy, if you have to shout at someone who is within arm's length so they can hear you, the noise is probably in the dangerous level.

You should wear earplugs to protect your hearing when you expect to be exposed to loud sounds, such as music in concerts and dance clubs, as well as noise from firecrackers, motorcycles and snowmobile engines. Saito does not recommend wearing ear plugs at most movie theaters or arcades, unless they are unusually loud. Although ear plugs may help preserve your hearing, additional factors, such as family history and other medical conditions, can also cause hearing loss.

For more information about hearing loss, visit PAMF's Hearing Health Center.