Struggling to understand people on TV, even at high volume? Try this first

You settle down to watch your favourite programme, but something is getting on your nerves. The music sounds clear, the sound effects are loud enough, yet the characters' conversations seem muffled. So you reach for the remote and turn up the volume.

It helps a little, but not enough. Now the television is too loud for everyone else, and you're still struggling to catch what people are saying.

Before you give up on the programme, there's a sound setting worth trying.

Check your TV's sound settings

Many modern televisions have a feature designed to make voices stand out from background music and sound effects. Depending on the brand, it might be called Dialogue, Speech Boost, Voice Clarity or Clear Voice.

Open your TV's Settings menu and look under Sound or Audio. If you find a dialogue-enhancement option, switch it on and replay a scene that was difficult to follow.

According to Consumer Reports, these settings can help make speech easier to distinguish. The names and options vary between TVs, so check your manual if you can't find them.

Two more adjustments to try

If the dialogue is still difficult to follow, experiment with two other settings.

Try night mode on and off. This reduces the difference between quiet dialogue and sudden, loud sounds. It can make the volume more consistent, but won't necessarily make voices clearer. Compare both options during the same scene to see which works best.

Switch off virtual surround sound. Some TVs process audio to create a cinema-like effect. Consumer Reports suggests trying Stereo or Normal mode instead, as this may make dialogue easier to follow.

Subtitles are another simple option when the soundtrack is particularly busy.

Could it be a sign of hearing loss?

Sometimes the television is the problem. But if you regularly struggle to understand speech, your hearing could also have changed.

Hearing loss can develop gradually. You might hear someone speaking but struggle to distinguish the words, particularly when there's background noise.

According to RNID, common signs of hearing loss include:

• Turning the TV up louder than other people prefer.
• Struggling to follow conversations in busy restaurants.
• Asking people to repeat themselves.
• Finding phone conversations difficult.
• Feeling that other people are mumbling.

If you recognise these signs, consider arranging a hearing test. A full hearing test is the only way to confirm hearing loss, according to RNID.

If you recognise these signs, consider arranging a hearing test through a healthcare professional or a qualified hearing specialist. A hearing assessment can help establish whether you have hearing loss and whether you might benefit from further support.

One important warning: if your hearing suddenly deteriorates in one or both ears, seek urgent medical attention. Sudden hearing loss can require prompt treatment, so don't wait for a routine appointment.

A small change to your TV settings might make your next evening in front of the screen much more enjoyable. But if you keep turning up the volume and the words remain unclear, it's worth getting your hearing checked.