Hearing loss

When to make a doctor’s appointment

Make an appointment to see a doctor if:

• Difficult to follow conversations, especially if there's background noise
• Sounds seem muffled
• Turning up volume when listening to music, radio or TV
• Affecting social interaction

Self-care

Steps to prevent hearing loss include wearing hearing protection in a workplace using loud equipment and turning down volume on TV, cell phone, and other electronic devices.

When to seek immediate medical care

See a doctor immediately if:

• Sudden loss of hearing, particularly in one ear
• Complete loss of hearing

When to make a doctor's appointment

Make an appointment to see a doctor if:

• Difficult to follow conversations, especially if there's background noise
• Sounds seem muffled
• Turning up volume when listening to music, radio or TV
• Affecting social interaction