At least 24 million Americans have abnormal hearing. Approximately 30 percent of people over the age of 60 have some degree of hearing impairment, making conversations difficult and background noise distracting. If you or someone you love are having communication problems, experiencing ringing or noises in the ears, dizzy spells, balance problems or a sense of fullness or discomfort in the ears, see your primary care physician. He or she may suggest that you have a hearing test.