Healthy Aging Health Center

Health Quiz

Rate Your Hearing

Could You Have Hearing Loss?

Think you're too young to have hearing loss? Think again. More than 28 million Americans have hearing loss. Even former President Bill Clinton was fitted for a hearing aid in 1997 after he realized that the rallies, concerts, and music in his life had taken a toll on his hearing.

Do people frequently comment on how loud you play the stereo and television?

Yes

No

Sometimes
Do you often ask people to repeat themselves because their speech is unclear?

Yes

No

Sometimes
Do you hear out of one ear better than the other?

Yes

No

Sometimes
Do you have difficulty following conversations in loud, crowded places?

Yes

No

Sometimes
Have you often been exposed to loud noise at work, or during social events like concerts?

Yes

No

Sometimes
Do you often insert things — like cotton swabs — into your ears?

Yes

No

Sometimes
Do you experience ringing in your ears frequently, or after exposure to loud noise?

Yes

No

Sometimes
Does your family have a history of hearing loss in the elderly?

Yes

No

Reviewed by Brunilda Nazario, MD on February 01, 2008

Sources: Sources

SOURCE: American Speech-Language-Hearing Assoiation.

This tool does not provide medical advice. See additional information:

THIS TOOL DOES NOT PROVIDE MEDICAL ADVICE. It is intended for general informational purposes only and does not address individual circumstances. It is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment and should not be relied on to make decisions about your health. Never ignore professional medical advice in seeking treatment because of something you have read on the WebMD Site. If you think you may have a medical emergency, immediately call your doctor or dial 911.