Hearing Loss Patient Education from University of Colorado Hospital

Living with Hearing Loss

Hearing loss generally occurs invisibly and painlessly, often over a period of 25 to 30 years. The gradual loss can mean that you may be unaware of it. It may fall to someone close to you to notice and mention the problem.

Signs of hearing loss include:

• Asking people to repeat
• Being unable to distinguish words clearly
• Having difficulty understanding group conversation
• Avoiding social situations
• Tinnitus (ringing in the ears)
• Playing radio and TV louder than others would like

Living with hearing loss begins with scheduling a hearing evaluation. If you have lost hearing, you will receive a consultation on options to improve your hearing in ways that fit your lifestyle.

Getting a Second Opinion About Hearing Loss

An initial hearing test may not show a hearing loss. If you feel you need more testing, you may want to seek a second opinion.

Additional Hearing Loss Resources

Recommended Web sites for additional information on hearing loss include:

Marion Downs Hearing Center

Colorado School for the Deaf and Blind

Hands and Voices International