Losing hearing capabilities is not something that most people want to experience in their lives. However, hearing loss of varying degrees happens to many people. When this happens, one of the best ways to deal with it is to get hearing aids. Hearing aids help to amplify sound so that it can be better heard by people with hearing loss. Here are four signs that you probably need hearing aids. If you recognize any of these signs in relation to yourself, then it may be time to visit the audiologist to pick out some hearing aids.

1. You miss a lot of phone calls ​​​​​​​

If you feel that you are missing an unusually high amount of phone calls, it could be because you are simply not hearing the phone ring while you are in another room. This could be because your hearing capabilities are diminishing. So if there are tons of voice messages on your answering machine every time you check it, this could be a sign that you need hearing aids.

2. You have trouble understanding speech in noisy places

Sometimes, people who have certain types of hearing loss will have trouble discerning sounds and understanding speech in noisy environments such as crowded restaurants. If this is happening to you then it could mean that you have had some hearing loss.

3. You have to say, “what?” a lot

Having to say “what?” frequently when people are speaking is a classic sign that you are experiencing hearing loss. If people keep telling you that you are saying “what?” a lot, then it could definitely be a warning sign. You may be experiencing hearing loss and need hearing aids if this is happening to you.

4. You turn volume levels up very high

This could be TV volumes, stereo volumes or phone volumes. Whatever the case may be, it is not a good sign for your hearing if you frequently have to turn up volume levels. In fact, if you do, then you should visit the audiologist, have your hearing tested and then ask your audiologist whether or not he or she would recommend hearing aids for you.

If you think you may be suffering from hearing loss, schedule an appointment with an audiologist in your area to have your hearing health evaluated. The audiologist will be able to run tests to determine your level of hearing loss and if you could benefit from treatment with hearing aids.