DEAR MAYO CLINIC: I recently realized that I often ask people to repeat themselves, and I must turn up the volume on the TV louder than before. How do I know if I have hearing loss? I am 46. Aren't I too young for hearing loss? Can I take steps to prevent future hearing loss?
ANSWER: The ears are an important part of the body, and damage to the delicate structures housed there can lead to hearing loss and balance problems. Both can happen suddenly, or over time. It is common for adults to experience hearing loss and balance problems as they age.
Although you may think you are too young, hearing loss can happen at any age due to a number of factors. Nearly 1 in 4 people in the U.S. ages 20 to 69 have some degree of hearing loss. This hearing loss is commonly caused by exposure to loud sounds or noise.
