Recognizing that one is hearing impaired can be a difficult thing. Environmental factors can mask hearing loss and as a result, this impairment can start out so subtle, one might not realize that they have hearing loss. However, statistics prove that the quicker one corrects hearing loss, the happier, healthier one will be.

Here are 9 questions that can help you determine if you need to see a Ear, Nose and Throat doctor:

1. Do you have a problem hearing over the telephone?
2. Do you have trouble following the conversation when two or more people are talking at the same time?
3. Do people complain that you turn the TV volume up too high?
4. Do you have to strain to understand conversation?
5. Do you have trouble hearing in a noisy background?
6. Do you find yourself asking people to repeat themselves?
7. Do many people you talk to seem to mumble (or not speak clearly)?
8. Do you misunderstand what others are saying and respond inappropriately?
9. Do people get annoyed because you misunderstand what they say?

If you answered yes to three or more questions, why not get your hearing checked by an physician? People that are treated for hearing impairment lead longer, happier, healthier, more enjoyable lives.