Frequently asking people to repeat themselves? Learn the common signs of hearing loss, when to get a hearing test and when it’s time to seek help.
Revised August 17, 2026
Contributed by: Alexa Rybak, AUD.CCC-A | Audiology
Could You Be Missing the Signs?
Hearing loss often happens slowly, making it easy to overlook. You may find yourself turning up the TV louder, asking people to repeat themselves or having trouble following conversations in busy places like restaurants. Some people start avoiding group conversations because it becomes harder to keep up. Others notice they struggle to hear on the phone or feel like everyone is mumbling.
These challenges can affect communication, relationships and overall quality of life. The good news is that recognizing the signs early can help you get the support you need.
Hearing loss is more common than many people realize. About 15% of American adults report some trouble hearing.
Why Early Detection Matters
According to the Hearing Loss Association of America, it takes seven years on average for someone to seek help for suspected hearing loss. Many wait even longer.
“Unfortunately, there’s still a stigma around hearing loss and hearing aids,” says Alexa Rybak, AUD.CCC-A, an audiologist at MetroHealth. “Many people would rather struggle through conversations than wear hearing aids because they worry it makes them look older.’”
Audiologists specialize in hearing and balance disorders. They evaluate hearing, identify possible causes of hearing problems and recommend treatment options when needed.
Even if you are not experiencing hearing loss, a hearing evaluation can provide a baseline measurement. Future hearing tests can be compared to that baseline to help detect changes over time.
Why A Hearing Evaluation Comes First
Over-the-counter (OTC) hearing aids can help some adults with slight or mild hearing loss. They are more affordable and easier to purchase than ever before. But they cannot tell you why you are having trouble hearing.
A hearing evaluation can help identify other causes of hearing problems, such as earwax buildup, an infection, medication side effects or another medical condition that may need treatment.
OTC hearing aids also have limits. Because you select and adjust them yourself, they may not address your specific hearing needs. Hearing loss affects people differently, and one device may not work for everyone. A professional evaluation can help you understand your hearing loss and find the solution that is most likely to help.
Consider a hearing evaluation if:
- Hearing loss is worse in one ear.
- Your hearing changed suddenly or is getting worse quickly.
- You have ringing in your ears, dizziness or ear pain.
- You have trouble hearing even in quiet settings.
- You want personalized recommendations based on your hearing needs.
Hearing Care at MetroHealth
Hearing evaluations are usually covered by insurance. You can schedule an appointment with a MetroHealth audiologist, or your primary care provider can refer you.
Some insurance plans also help pay for prescription hearing aids. Coverage varies by plan, and financial assistance may be available if you qualify.
If hearing aids are recommended, you’ll return for a custom fitting based on your hearing needs. We’ll show you how to use and care for your hearing aids so you can get the best results. Follow-up visits are included with your hearing aid purchase at MetroHealth.
Ohio’s Hearing Aid Returns Act gives consumers the right to return a hearing aid for any reason within 30 days after purchase.
For more information, visit Audiology & Hearing Loss.
Struggling to hear clearly?
Early treatment can make a big difference. Call 216-778-4391 to schedule a hearing evaluation or talk with your primary care provider.
Your Questions Answered
Q: How do I know if I need a hearing test?
A. If you often ask people to repeat themselves, turn up the TV volume, have trouble hearing on the phone or struggle to follow conversations in noisy places, it may be time for a hearing test. Hearing loss often develops gradually, so the signs can be easy to miss.
Q: Can over-the-counter (OTC) hearing aids replace a hearing evaluation?
A. OTC hearing aids may help some adults with mild hearing loss, but they cannot identify the cause of hearing problems. A hearing evaluation can determine the type and degree of hearing loss and help rule out medical conditions that may require treatment.
Q: What happens during a hearing evaluation?
A. A hearing evaluation is painless and typically takes about an hour. An audiologist will ask about your symptoms, examine your ears and perform hearing tests to measure how well you hear different sounds and speech. Based on the results, they can recommend treatment options and whether hearing aids may be beneficial.
