Hearing loss is an insidious health malady in that most people don’t know they’re experiencing it until too late — and even then, they may assume that it’s a temporary problem. If no single significant event occurred that may have caused a sudden change in hearing ability, it’s typically a slow decline. These are among the most common signs that you or someone you know might have a hearing loss: Asking people to repeat themselves often Difficulty following conversations that involve more than two people Thinking that others are mumbling or speaking quietly Difficulty hearing speech in noisy situations People commenting about how loud your TV or radio is Inappropriate responses during conversation Stress from straining to hear what others are saying Withdrawing from enjoyable social situations more often Family history of hearing loss Taking medications that can harm the hearing system Diabetes, heart, circulation, or thyroid problems History of exposure to loud sounds at work or leisure Hearing loss is usually gradual, and by identifying these symptoms, you’ve covered step one in the diagnosis process. Source