Hearing loss usually begins subtly. You might find yourself asking your kids to repeat something, dismissing it as mumbling or background noise. But when this occurs, you begin to think that you may be starting to develop hearing loss. Understanding the sounds related to hearing loss can help you recognize potential changes in your own hearing.
The soft sounds of conductive hearing loss
For many, conductive hearing loss manifests as sounds that seem softer than they used to. You may notice that your partner frequently asks you to “speak up,” or they fail to recognize that the television volume is extremely loud.
Here are a few things you may hear:
- In environments where there is a lot of background noise, you have a more difficult time hearing clearly
- The volume of sounds seem lower than before
- The need for others to speak louder
This type of hearing loss might feel like a muffled auditory experience, making familiar sounds seem distant or faint.
Sensorineural hearing loss causes sounds to be distorted
Besides becoming softer, sounds will frequently also be distorted for someone who has sensorineural hearing loss. It’s challenging to differentiate between similar sounds making conversations difficult.
How it might sound:
- Problems distinguishing vowels from consonants, resulting in misunderstandings
- Speech that seems muddled or unclear
- Being able to hear some sounds but not others
This distorted speech can cause you to misconstrue important details without even knowing it, which can produce barriers in communication and frustration.
The intermittent sounds of tinnitus
Tinnitus presents a unique auditory experience that can accompany hearing loss. It can present as persistent or intermittent sounds that overlap with external noises.
You may hear the following:
- Internal hissing or screeching sounds in your ears
- Ocean-like waves, crickets chirping, or the whooshing of wind
- Static, buzzing, or even a catchy tune stuck on repeat
Tinnitus symptoms can manifest in lots of ways and can significantly impact quality of life.
Identifying the sounds of changing hearing
Hearing loss normally progresses slowly, and being aware of sounds that come along with it is crucial for early treatment. If you find yourself consistently asking people to repeat what they said or struggling to follow conversations, it could be time to think about a hearing assessment.
When is it time for a hearing exam?
If you suspect you are experiencing any form of hearing loss or tinnitus, scheduling a hearing test is essential. Consulting with us can offer clarity on your condition and direct you toward correct treatment options. Understanding what hearing loss sounds like can make a meaningful difference in your quality of life. Don’t wait to seek help; your hearing health is important.
Contact us right away for a consultation.