Signs of Hearing Loss 

• Playing the radio or TV very loudly
• Frequently saying “what?” during conversations
• Having problems talking or hearing during parties or in restaurants
• Not hearing something if the person is out of sight

Another sign of possible hearing loss is ringing in the ear (tinnitus). Tinnitus often accompanies age-related hearing loss, but it could also be a sign of another health problem. So, a healthcare professional needs to do an exam.

Medications that May Affect Hearing

More than 200 drugs can affect hearing. They include: 

• Some antibiotics
• Some chemotherapy drugs
• High doses of aspirin, and other pain drugs
• Some diuretics (water pills), which flush excess fluids from a person’s body

The first sign of hearing problems related to a drug often is tinnitus. Balance problems or dizziness may also happen. Stopping these drugs can often restore hearing.

Last Updated May 2023