Headphones and earbuds are a big part of everyday life for so many of us. Whether you’re jamming out to your favorite playlist, taking a call, or zoning out with a podcast, they’re always within arm’s reach. But have you ever stopped to think if all that listening might be hurting your ears?

Hearing loss can happen to anyone, and it often sneaks up on you before you even realize it. Knowing the common causes and keeping up with your hearing health through regular tests can help you stay connected to the world around you. Let’s explore five reasons adults experience hearing loss and what you can do to take care of your ears.

Spotting the early signs of hearing loss can help you take action and stay connected to the people and sounds you care about most. Let’s take a look at a few common signs of hearing loss, how it happens, and what you can do about it.