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48 Million people in the United States have some degree of hearing loss. Hearing loss can happen at any age, 15% of school children (6-19 years of age) also have some degree of hearing loss.

Signs of hearing loss can be either very subtle and develop slowly and take years to develop, or can be significant and develop rapidly almost as if it happened over night.

Some of the signs and symptoms you or a loved one could be experiencing if you are developing hearing loss are:

• have a hard time hearing in noisy situations, like conferences, restaurants, or crowded meeting places.
• have ringing in your ears.
• have your TV or radio turned up to a high volume.
• have difficulty following conversations involving more than 2 people.
• read lips and concentrate on people's faces when they speak with you.

Hearing loss can also be an emotional, and a shock to your system. Some people may notice emotional changes either in themselves or loved ones. Some things you or your loved ones could be feeling if you are experience hearing loss are:

• feeling embarrassed or reluctant to meet new people for fear of misunderstanding what others are saying.
• feeling stressed out from straining to hear what others are saying.
• withdraw from social situation that you once enjoyed because of difficulty hearing.
• feeling angry, lonely or fatigued

There are things you can do if you suspect hearing loss in yourself or a loved one. Don’t suffer in silence, help is available. Consult with an Audiologist if you think you may have any signs of hearing loss. An audiologist can perform diagnostic testing to assess the degree and type of hearing loss. They can develop a plan to help you hear better and reduce any anxiety you have about hearing loss. Just remember you or your loved ones are not alone, again 48 million people in the United States alone have some degree of hearing loss. So, find the closest qualified Audiologist, and go see what they can do for you or your loved ones.