Hearing Loss: Your Guide to Stop Saying "Huh?"

Hearing loss affects more than just the ability to communicate, it can influence your social life, cognition, energy levels, and mobility.

Hearing loss often comes on slowly, so many people do not notice it at first. Family members may spot it before you do. The good news is that there is a lot you can do to protect your hearing and stay connected.

Signs your hearing may be changing

Pay attention if you notice any of these:

• Often asking people to repeat themselves.
• Turning up the TV louder than others prefer.
• Trouble following conversations in noisy places.
• Feeling that people mumble.
• Ringing, buzzing or hissing in your ears.
• Avoiding social events because conversations are tiring.

Common causes

Aging is the most common cause, but loud noise is a close second. Years of loud work, music or power tools can damage the delicate cells in the inner ear. Earwax buildup, ear infections, and some health conditions can also play a role. Certain medicines can affect hearing or cause ringing in the ears. If you notice a change after starting a new medicine, tell your pharmacist and doctor.

Hearing well is about more than sound. It keeps you connected to the people you love.

Why it matters

Untreated hearing loss can lead to isolation, frustration and fatigue. It can also affect balance and safety. Getting your hearing checked is a simple step. Ask your doctor for a referral to a hearing specialist.

Protecting the hearing you have

Wear earplugs or earmuffs around loud noise. Keep headphone volume moderate and take listening breaks. Do not put cotton swabs deep in your ears, since they can push wax further in. If you feel blocked, ask us about safe earwax products, or see your doctor.

Sudden hearing loss in one or both ears is a reason to see a doctor right away. Quick care can make a difference.

Talking with your pharmacist is easier when you can hear clearly. At CarePoint, we are happy to slow down, speak face to face, and write things down for you. Just ask.

If someone in your family has hearing loss, small changes help a lot. Face them when you speak, get their attention before you start, and speak clearly without shouting. Turn down background noise when you can. Be patient and repeat or rephrase when needed. These habits make conversations easier for everyone and help the person you love stay part of family life. And if you wear hearing aids, keep spare batteries or a charger handy, and ask your hearing specialist how to clean and care for them.

Have questions about anything in this article? Call us at 661.480.2373 and talk with a CarePoint pharmacist. We are happy to help, and there is never a charge for a conversation.

This article is general education, not medical advice.