Signs of hearing loss and what to do next
Hearing changes often happen so gradually that they’re easy to miss. Here you’ll find the most common signs, the main types, and your next steps.
Sudden hearing change? A sudden drop in hearing is a medical emergency. Seek medical care immediately rather than waiting for a routine hearing evaluation.

Common signs of hearing loss
These everyday changes can be reasons to have your hearing checked. A hearing evaluation helps clarify what is happening and which next steps may help.
- You often ask people to repeat themselves.
- You can hear that someone is talking, but not always what they said.
- Conversations are hard to follow in restaurants, at parties or in the car.
- Other people say your TV or phone is louder than it needs to be.
- You notice ringing, buzzing or other sounds along with a change in your hearing.
Press play to hear two friends talking in a noisy restaurant, then move the slider to compare the samples. This is a simulation for illustration, not a hearing test or a prediction of your results. Individual results vary.
Types of hearing loss
A hearing evaluation helps identify the type and degree of hearing loss. Some findings also need medical assessment to determine the cause and treatment.
Tinnitus is the perception of sound without an external source. It often occurs with hearing loss. There is no universal cure, but some cases improve when an underlying cause is treated. When hearing loss is present, hearing aids may help make tinnitus less noticeable. Learn about tinnitus care.
Your health history and medications can be relevant to changes in hearing. Share this information at your evaluation so we can discuss appropriate next steps and any need for medical referral.
What to do next
If you have noticed gradual changes or ongoing difficulty hearing, a hearing evaluation can help you understand your options.
Book a hearing evaluation
One of our Florida-licensed Hearing Aid Specialists will discuss your concerns, test your hearing and explain the results.
Your results, explained
We show you your audiogram, the chart of your hearing test, and explain what it means. You’re welcome to bring a family member or friend.
Talk through your options
Depending on your results, the next step may be earwax care, a medical referral or hearing aids. If hearing aids are appropriate, we’ll compare options suited to your hearing, daily life, preferences and budget.

What patients say
Toni made me feel very comfortable doing my hearing test I'm even chlosterphobic and i was able to do my test bc she was so calm and she NEEDS A RAISE and A GIFT BASKET I HIGHLY RECOMMEND COMING to THIS ALTAMONTE FAMILY HEARING CENTER I REALLY LIKE TONI SHE IS SO GOOD AT HER JOBAshley HarrisGoogle
Omg!!!! Jaycee is absolutely the best! I have been dealing with hard of hearing for years and today because of Jaycee I can hear. He was super patient, polite and went above and beyond to make sure I left with my hearing aids the same day. Side note I drove 2hrs to see him and I don’t regret it!Francesse ChreryGoogle
Questions about hearing loss
Can hearing loss happen suddenly?
Yes. A sudden drop in hearing, whether it happens at once or over a few days, needs immediate medical attention. Do not wait for a routine hearing evaluation. Prompt assessment and treatment can improve the chance of recovery.
Does hearing loss always get worse?
Hearing loss can be stable, fluctuate or change over time, depending on its cause. A hearing evaluation provides a baseline, and follow-up testing can help track changes. If you notice a sudden change, seek medical care immediately.
Can I protect the hearing I have?
Reduce exposure to loud sound, keep headphone volume down and use hearing protection when needed. Hearing checks can help track changes, although not every cause of hearing loss can be prevented.
Book a hearing evaluation
Book your hearing evaluation online or call our office to schedule an appointment. Missed calls are returned within one business day.

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