Visit hearing loss It usually develops gradually. People get used to it, those around them make up for it, and sometimes years go by without anyone realizing it. However, the earlier it is detected, the more effective the solutions are. Beyond quality of life, several recent studies have established a clear link between untreated hearing loss and the risk of cognitive decline [1]. This article outlines eight signs that should prompt a hearing evaluation, the most common causes, the evaluation process in Quebec, and the reasons why you shouldn’t wait to seek help.
On this page
- The 8 Warning Signs to Watch For
- The Most Common Causes
- The Hearing Test: What to Expect
- Who does what: audiologist, hearing aid specialist, doctor, ENT specialist
- Why Seek Treatment Promptly: The Link to Cognition
- Special Cases: Children and Noisy Environments
- Myths and misconceptions
- Frequently asked questions
- Sources
The 8 Warning Signs to Watch For
Visit hearing loss It doesn't come on suddenly as a sudden silence. It manifests itself through small changes in daily life that we tend to take for granted. Here are the eight most reliable signs that it's time to get a hearing test.
1. You often make them repeat things
«Excuse me?» and «Can you repeat that?» become your go-to phrases, especially amid the noise. A restaurant, an open-plan office, or a kitchen in the middle of dinner can become challenging environments. This is one of the earliest signs of mild or moderate hearing loss.
2. The TV or phone is always too low
You Turn up the volume You listen to it regularly, and the people around you think it's too loud. They often mention it. The volume that's «comfortable» for you becomes uncomfortable for others.
3. Group conversations can be exhausting
At a restaurant, at a party, or in a meeting: following a group discussion requires a extraordinary effort and leaves you feeling tired. This «auditory fatigue» is a very common symptom of a gradual decline in speech discrimination threshold.
4. You have difficulty hearing high-pitched sounds
Children's and women's voices are harder to make out than deep voices. The sounds of bells, the telephone, and birds seem fainter. This is the a classic sign of presbycusis, age-related hearing loss, which primarily affects high frequencies.
5. You avoid the phone
Without visual cues (lip-reading), it becomes harder to understand. We begin to avoid calls, asking the person you're talking to to speak louder, or opting for text messages or emails instead.
6. You hear ringing or whistling sounds (tinnitus)
Visit tinnitus These symptoms often accompany hearing loss, even mild hearing loss. They may be constant, intermittent, or more pronounced in the evening or in quiet environments. They warrant evaluation, especially if they are new or occur on one side only.
7. You’re isolating yourself socially
You Avoid dinner parties family or social activities because the auditory fatigue is too great. This social withdrawal is one of the most serious consequences of untreated hearing loss, and one of the proposed links to long-term cognitive decline.
8. The people around you notice it before you do
If several people tell you that your hearing isn't as good as it used to be, that's a a warning to be taken seriously. Those around the person often notice the hearing loss before the person does, because the adjustment is unconscious and gradual.
Summary Table of the 8 Signs
| Sign | Clinical Index |
|---|---|
| Have them repeat it often | Especially in noisy environments |
| TV or phone volume too loud | Repeated comments from those around him |
| Exhausting group conversations | Significant auditory fatigue |
| High-pitched voices that are difficult to hear | Signs of presbycusis |
| Avoid using the phone | Difficulty without lip-reading |
| Tinnitus | Persistent buzzing or whistling sounds |
| Social isolation | Avoiding dinners and activities |
| People around him who notice it | Multiple consistent comments |
To remember
- Visit hearing loss is almost always gradual and insidious
- The’entourage often notices the loss before the person does
- Visit auditory fatigue within groups is a reliable early warning sign
- Visit tinnitus New or unilateral changes warrant an assessment
- Visit early screening enables more effective solutions
- Visit uncorrected hearing loss is associated with an increased risk of cognitive decline [1]
The Most Common Causes
Not all hearing loss is the same. Identifying the underlying cause guides the treatment, which ranges from simply removing an earwax plug to fitting specialized hearing aids.
Common Causes
- Presbycusis — age-related hearing loss, the most common type of hearing loss among people over 60
- Noise exposure — noisy work, loud music, firearms, motorcycles
- Earwax plug — a condition that is easily reversible with proper treatment
- Ear Infection or an ear infection
- Serous Otitis with fluid behind the eardrum (more common in children)
- Ototoxic medications (certain antibiotics, chemotherapy drugs, high doses of aspirin)
- Neurological causes or genetic
- Ménière's Disease (dizziness, tinnitus, fluctuating hearing loss)
- Trauma auditory or cranial
- Sudden Hearing Loss (ENT emergency)
Noise Exposure: A Preventable Factor
- Prolonged exposure to more than 85 dB may damage the inner ear
- A a concert or a party Noise levels regularly reach 100 dB or higher
- Visit earphones At full volume, they often exceed 100 dB right in the ear
- Visit workplaces Noisy workplaces are regulated by the CNESST
- Visit wearing hearing protection (plugs, shells) is the most effective measure
- Visit 60/60 rule is useful for headphones: maximum volume of 60 %, maximum of 60 minutes at a time
Special Case: Sudden Hearing Loss
A sudden hearing loss, especially on one side, is a medical emergency. The sooner treatment begins (ideally within 48 to 72 hours), the greater the chances of recovery. The best course of action is to see a doctor right away or go to the emergency room.
The Hearing Test: What to Expect
A comprehensive hearing evaluation is painless, quick, and essential for understanding the nature of hearing loss.
The Usual Steps
- Clinical Interview : medical history, exposure to noise, medications, family background
- Otoscopy : visual examination of the ear canal and the eardrum
- Tone Audiogram : Measurement of hearing thresholds by frequency (low and high frequencies)
- Speech Audiogram : Tests of comprehension of words and sentences
- Tympanometry : Assessment of eardrum mobility
- Testing the stapedial reflex
- Recommendations depending on the type of hearing loss (general medical, ENT, hearing aids)
Degrees of Hearing Loss
| Level | Threshold (in dB) | Functional impact |
|---|---|---|
| Normal hearing | 0 to 25 | No |
| Slight loss | 26 to 40 | Difficulty in the Noise |
| Moderate loss | 41 to 60 | Difficulty following a normal conversation |
| Severe loss | 61 to 80 | Limited visibility, even up close |
| A Deep Loss | more than 80 | Communication is very difficult without a hearing aid |
Who does what: audiologist, hearing aid specialist, doctor, ENT specialist
Visit Audio Tour in Quebec involves several professionals, each with a specific role. Understanding who does what helps avoid unnecessary detours.
The Audiologist
- Professional registered with the OOAQ (Ordre des orthophonistes et audiologistes du Québec) [2]
- Rate conducts a hearing evaluation and makes an audiological diagnosis
- Determine the nature and degree of hearing loss
- Recommend hearing aids, if necessary
- Accompany Tinnitus and hearing processing disorders
- Access live in private practice, without a required doctor's referral
The Audiologist
- Professional registered with the OAPQ (Quebec Order of Audioprosthetists) [3]
- Supports Hearing Aids: Selection, Fitting, and Follow-Up Care
- Rate the device's performance in everyday use
- Adapt parameters over time
- Speaks after audiological evaluation
The Family Doctor
- Initial medical assessment in cases of hearing loss
- Withdrawal earwax plugs
- Treatment ear infections
- Review potentially ototoxic medications
- Orientation to audiology or ENT when necessary
- Screening a systemic cause (diabetes, autoimmune disease)
The ENT (Ear, Nose, and Throat Specialist)
- Specialist ear, nose, and throat
- Speaks on behalf of the complex cases or surgical
- Rate sudden or unilateral hearing loss
- Milk specific conditions (Ménière's disease, otosclerosis, acoustic neuroma)
- Access by reference health care in Quebec
Why Seek Treatment Promptly: The Link to Cognition
Beyond the quality of life, uncorrected hearing loss has been associated, in several studies, including the Lancet Commission on dementia, an increased risk of cognitive decline, and falls [1]. It is now considered one of the modifiable risk factors the most significant aspects of dementia.
Documented Links
- Visit hearing loss is the leading modifiable risk factor for dementia, according to the Lancet Commission [1]
- A moderate loss Uncontrolled hypertension is associated with an approximately threefold higher risk of cognitive decline
- The’social isolation which results from hearing loss indirectly contributes to this risk
- Visit cognitive load The mental effort required by difficult listening diverts mental resources away from other functions
- Visit hearing loss also doubles the risk of falls among older adults
- The’early intervention, when appropriate, helps preserve social and cognitive function
Other Benefits of Hearing Aids
- Improvement everyday communication
- Reduction auditory fatigue
- Maintenance social and professional activities
- Reduction the risk of depression associated with isolation
- Best Safety while traveling (hearing warnings, cars)
- Support family and marital relationships
Do you recognize any of the signs described? Omicron Clinic offers initial medical evaluations for hearing loss, earwax removal, treatment for ear infections, and prompt referrals to an audiologist when necessary at our locations in Quebec. Make an appointment or opt for the teleconsultation for a first assessment.
Special Cases: Children and Noisy Environments
Some situations call for a special attention, either because they involve a vulnerable population or because they relate to occupational health.
In children
- Visit serous otitis Repeated exposure can cause temporary hearing loss
- Visit hearing loss If left undiagnosed, it can delay language development and learning
- Visit signs In children: not responding to their name, delayed speech, television volume set very high, unexplained difficulties in school
- A neonatal screening Hearing screenings are offered in several regions of Quebec
- A evaluation A prompt evaluation by a pediatric audiologist is recommended at the first sign of concern
Workers in Noisy Environments
- Audiometry Guidelines for Hiring in Noisy Environments
- Annual Follow-Up or every 2 years, in accordance with current standards
- Hearing Protection mandatory above the CNESST thresholds
- Visit occupational hearing loss may be recognized as a work-related injury
- Approach with the CNESST, if a documented injury occurs
People aged 50 and older
- Hearing Evaluation Recommended for people aged 55 to 60, even if they have no symptoms
- Regular follow-up every 2 to 3 years thereafter
- A slight loss Early detection makes fitting a hearing aid easier and more comfortable
- Visit habits Listening habits (music, television, phone) should be reviewed over time
Myths and misconceptions
«Hearing loss is just a normal part of aging.»
Nuanced. Age-related hearing loss is common as we get older, but it is not an inevitable condition that we must simply accept without taking action. It can be assessed, monitored, and addressed with hearing aids, especially when it begins to affect one’s social life and cause daily fatigue.
«Hearing aids whistle and are noticeable.»
Mostly fake. Modern hearing aids are much more discreet and effective than those from 20 years ago. Many models are virtually invisible, actively reduce background noise, and connect to phones or televisions via Bluetooth. With proper fitting, whistling sounds have become rare.
«If I really had hearing loss, I'd know it.»
False. Hearing loss is almost always gradual, and people adapt to it without even realizing it. This is one of the reasons why those around the person often notice the hearing loss before the person does. An objective hearing evaluation is the only way to get a reliable diagnosis.
«Cotton swabs solve earwax problems»
False. A cotton swab often pushes earwax deeper into the ear canal and can damage the eardrum. Professional removal by a doctor, nurse, or licensed audiologist is safer and more effective. Earwax-softening drops available at pharmacies can also be used with caution.
«A hearing aid is very expensive and is never covered by insurance.»
Nuanced. The cost varies depending on the model. In Quebec, the RAMQ covers part of the cost of hearing aids for individuals who meet specific eligibility criteria. Several group insurance plans also offer partial reimbursement. The hearing aid specialist will explain the available coverage options.
Frequently asked questions
Do you need a doctor's referral to see an audiologist?
No. In Quebec, you can access audiology services directly without a doctor’s referral. However, some insurance plans require a prescription for reimbursement. It’s a good idea to check the details with your insurance provider before your appointment.
Does a hearing test hurt?
No. The evaluation is painless and noninvasive. It combines a visual examination of the ear canal, hearing tests at various frequencies, and speech comprehension tests. The appointment usually lasts between 45 minutes and 1 hour.
How often should you have a hearing test?
For a healthy adult with no symptoms, a baseline hearing test around age 55 to 60 is recommended, followed by a follow-up test every 2 to 3 years. If symptoms are present, or if there is exposure to noise or a family history of hearing loss, earlier and more frequent testing is recommended.
Will tinnitus go away?
It depends on the cause. Tinnitus caused by a wax plug or an infection often goes away with treatment. Tinnitus associated with chronic hearing loss may persist, but several approaches (hearing aids, sound therapy, stress management) can help make it more bearable. New-onset or unilateral tinnitus warrants prompt evaluation.
Will my earbuds damage my ears?
Possibly, especially at high volumes and for long periods of time. The 60/60 rule is helpful: no more than 60 % of the maximum volume, and no more than 60 consecutive minutes. Headphones with active noise cancellation often allow you to listen at lower volumes in noisy environments, which helps protect your hearing.
How long does it take to get used to a hearing aid?
It usually takes a few weeks to a few months to adjust. The brain needs time to readjust to sounds it hasn’t heard in a while. The hearing care professional gradually adjusts the settings to make the adjustment easier. The earlier the hearing aid is fitted, the faster the adjustment tends to be.
Sources
- The Lancet Commission on Dementia Prevention, Intervention, and Care. Modifiable Risk Factors for Dementia.
- Quebec Order of Speech-Language Pathologists and Audiologists (OOAQ). The Role of the Audiologist in Quebec.
- Quebec Order of Audiologists (OAPQ). The Role of the Audiologist and Hearing Aids.
- World Health Organization (WHO). Hearing Loss and Cognitive Decline.
- INSPQ — National Institute of Public Health of Quebec. Noise and Hearing Health.
- CNESST. Occupational Hearing Loss and Noise in the Workplace.
- RAMQ — Quebec Health Insurance Board. Hearing Aid Program.
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