Hearing loss usually starts out subtly. You might dismiss your need for people to repeat what they said as them mumbling or background noise. But as you think about this moment, a question arises: Am I losing my hearing? Understanding the sounds linked to hearing loss can help you recognize potential changes in your own hearing.
The soft sounds of conductive hearing loss
For many people, conductive hearing loss manifests as sounds that seem softer than they once did. You may notice that your loved one frequently asks you to “speak up,” or they fail to recognize that the television volume is excessively loud.
What you may hear:
- Sounds that are softer than before
- In environments where there is a lot of background noise, you have a more difficult time hearing clearly
- The need for others to speak louder
This type of hearing loss may feel like a muffled auditory experience, making common sounds seem distant or indistinct.
The distorted sounds of sensorineural hearing loss
In cases of sensorineural hearing loss, not only are sounds softer, but they can also become distorted. It’s challenging to distinguish between similar sounds making conversations problematic.
How it might sound:
- Speech that seems muddled or distorted
- Being able to hear some sounds but not others
- Misunderstandings because you can’t differentiate vowels from consonants
This distorted speech can cause you to misconstrue important details without even knowing it, which can lead to barriers in communication and frustration.
The intermittent sounds of tinnitus
Hearing loss frequently comes with tinnitus symptoms. It normally manifests as phantom sounds that aren’t really there, which can cause external sounds to be even harder to hear.
You may hear the following:
- Internal hissing or screeching sounds in your ears
- Static, buzzing, or even a catchy tune stuck on repeat
- Ocean-like waves, crickets chirping, or the whooshing of wind
Each person’s experience with tinnitus can differ, but these invasive sounds can substantially impact day-to-day life and the enjoyment of other sounds.
Distinguishing the sounds of hearing changes
Hearing loss usually develops slowly, and being conscious of sounds that come along with it is crucial for early treatment. It’s probably time to schedule an appointment for a hearing assessment if you find yourself having difficulty following along with conversations or needing people to frequently repeat what they said.
When is it time for a hearing exam?
If you suspect you are detecting any form of hearing loss or tinnitus, scheduling a hearing test is essential. We can help clarify the state of your hearing and supply you with the best course of treatment. Knowing what hearing loss sounds like can make a meaningful difference in your quality of life. The health of your hearing is important so don’t wait to get the help you need.
Call us today to schedule your hearing test.
