Symptoms of hearing loss

We only really become aware of our senses when we notice an issue with one of them. This is especially true of our ability to hear.

What are the typical symptoms of hearing loss?

  • Misunderstanding what others have said to you and offering an unrelated response
  • A need for people to repeat themselves
  • Finding it difficult to follow a conversation on the phone or in noisy environments
  • Other people commenting that your TV or radio is turned up louder than they would like
  • Difficulty determining the direction that a sound has come from


It is important to maintain frequent hearing check-ups, especially if you have concerns or are noticing a problem. Hearing loss may be caused by underlying health conditions.

Your hearing can and will change over time, and it’s not unusual for it to deteriorate. With regular hearing assessments, you will be able to closely monitor this and ensure that your health is prioritised.

Unfortunately, losing your sense of hearing is not uncommon. In 2015, it was found that in the UK 11 million people were experiencing hearing loss – that’s 1 in 6 of us.

More than 900,000 people are severely or profoundly deaf and it’s estimated that this number will rise to 15.6 million (1 in 5) by 2035. It is thought that over 70% of those aged over 70 years and 40% of those aged over 50 have some kind of hearing loss.

Sign language usage is on the rise, with over 24,000 people using it as their main form of communication.

If you are over the age of 50, a diagnosis is particularly important. On average, it can take a person up to 10 years to address their hearing loss, but with so many hearing aids and support networks in place, there is no need to suffer in silence.

If you’re overdue a check-up or are experiencing any of the symptoms above, start with our free online screening test. It’ll determine whether you need a clinical examination. If you do, you can order one to your home, exclusively through Online Hearing Care.

We’re always here to help with anything our customers need. Email [email protected] or call 0800 054 1138.

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