Signs of hearing difficulties should not be taken lightly, as hearing loss is usually irreversible. The first symptoms can be finding it difficult to hear when there are lots of people in the room, no longer hearing quiet noises like clocks ticking, or regularly having to ask people to repeat themselves. If you or someone you know is experiencing these or similar symptoms, you should contact an ENT specialist and get a hearing test as soon as possible. Of course, getting hearing protection is even better – using earplugs in places where there is a lot of noise can prevent irreversible damage and protect your long-term hearing.