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As the holidays near, many of us will be surrounded by family and friends ' some who we haven't seen for some time. As we reminisce and update each other on what's been going on in our lives, most assuredly we will notice changes in our loved ones. It may be weight loss ' or weight gain. It could be hair color ' or hair loss. The biggest changes we notice are the growth of children. Babies start crawling and walking and talking. Older children enter school. Children we remember being in grade school 'just yesterday' are getting ready to leave school and enter their adult lives.

There is one change we may notice in our friends and relatives that we won't comment on ' hearing loss. Hearing loss is something we should mention to people we care about because it is often not apparent to the sufferer. In fact, age related hearing loss often takes place over a long period of time. Additionally, when it is identified, it is often too late to do very much about.

So, what should you pay attention to if you think someone you care about is suffering from hearing loss?

• a ringing, roaring, hissing or buzzing in the ear
• trouble determining television sounds from real sounds
• dizziness and loss of balance
• difficulty hearing low pitched sounds or whispers
• moderate to severe vision impairment

If a potential hearing loss symptom is identified in someone you care about, there may be some challenges in telling them. While some hearing loss can be caused by something as simple as too much earwax, most hearing loss has long term potential and some hearing loss is indicative of a serious health condition. A short visit with a hearing care professional will sort out the problem and provide peace of mind. The important thing to remember is the earlier hearing loss is diagnosed, is the sooner it can be treated. Encourage your loved one to see a hearing professional or do some research on the internet. Hearing Aid Match will even give you a free hearing test.

It's easy to point out a positive change in someone you care about, but sometimes it's necessary to point out, in a loving manner, changes that aren't so positive. Hearing loss is one of those changes that need to be pointed out. This holiday season, pay special attention to those you care about who may have this problem.