Selective hearing is often used as a joke for people conveniently not hearing something they didn’t want to, like when you ask your spouse to do the dishes or fold laundry. However, if you notice you or your partner are experiencing more and more instances of selective hearing, it may actually be the early stages of hearing loss.
Focus and Selective Hearing
While selective hearing is often used in a negative context, it also has benefits. It allows you to tune out other noises and focus on a specific speaker in a crowd. To that end, research has shown that your goals play a big role in what you listen to and what you don’t.
A 2008 study asked participants to pay attention to sounds in one ear while ignoring the other. Researchers then played different pitches in each ear simultaneously and asked participants to note changes in the ear they were asked to focus on.
MRI scans showed that participants were able to hear the sounds in each ear, however, brain activation was different depending on what sound they were paying attention to.
How to Know When it Might Be Hearing Loss
If you or your partner occasionally doesn’t hear what the other said while you’re watching a movie or engaged in another activity, it’s probably nothing to worry about. However, if you notice more and more instances of hearing troubles or miscommunications, it might be time for a hearing test.
Early Signs of Hearing Loss
Additionally, be on the lookout for the following signs:
- Family or friends remark on your hearing
- It seems like people are frequently mumbling
- You find yourself asking others to repeat themselves often
- Following conversations in places with background noise, like Cranky Sam Public House, is especially difficult.
Treating Hearing Loss Can Strengthen Relationships
We all know that communication is the key to strong, happy relationships. Hearing loss can put a strain on relationships because it affects your ability to communicate and connect with others.
Because hearing loss is gradual and progressive, it’s important to take action the moment you become aware of any signs or symptoms. If your hearing test reveals that you do have hearing loss, your audiologist will likely recommend hearing aids.
Hearing aids can make it easier for you to pick up sounds and speech and reduce miscommunication between you and your loved ones.
If you have additional questions or would like to make an appointment to get your hearing checked, contact Western Montana Hearing and Speech today.