What are the symptoms of hearing loss?
People with hearing loss may experience the following symptoms:
- Difficulty hearing conversations, especially in noisy places
- Feeling like people are mumbling or speaking softly
- Having to turn the volume up on the television or radio
- Trouble understanding speech on the phone
- Asking people to repeat themselves often
- Feeling anxious in social situations because of difficulty hearing
What causes hearing loss?
Hearing loss can be caused by different factors, such as:
- Age-related changes in the ear
- Exposure to loud noises
- Infections or illnesses affecting the ear
- Earwax build-up that blocks sound
- Certain medications that can harm hearing
How common is hearing loss?
Hearing loss is quite common, especially in older adults. It is estimated that around 1 in 6 people in the UK experience some level of hearing loss, and this number increases with age.
Who is more likely to experience hearing loss?
Some factors can make a person more likely to develop hearing loss, including:
- Age (older people are more likely to have hearing loss)
- Regular exposure to loud sounds (such as music, machinery, or firearms)
- A family history of hearing loss
- Medical conditions like diabetes or high blood pressure
How can I treat hearing loss?
Treatment for hearing loss depends on its cause and severity. Common treatment options include:
- Hearing aids that amplify sound
- Surgery to repair problems in the ear
- Medication to treat underlying conditions
Powered by pharmacies
With over 1,700 pharmacy partners across the UK, you can get the help you need, wherever you are based.
Our website and mobile app make it easy and convenient to manage your health needs and book services at a pharmacy nearby.
How to live with hearing loss?
Living with hearing loss can be challenging, but there are ways to manage it:
- Using hearing aids or other assistive devices
- Learning to read lips or use sign language
- Joining support groups to connect with others facing similar challenges
- Adapting your environment to reduce background noise
Final thoughts
Hearing loss is a common condition that can significantly affect daily life. If you are concerned about your hearing, it is important to speak to your GP or healthcare provider for advice and support.
