Normally, the first stages of hearing loss advance slowly. You may dismiss your need for people to repeat what they said as them mumbling or background noise. But as you reflect on this moment, a question arises: Am I losing my hearing? Understanding the sounds linked to hearing loss can help you identify potential changes in your own hearing.
Conductive hearing loss makes the world sound softer
When normal sounds seem softer than they used to, this is a common indication of conductive hearing loss. You may notice that your loved one often asks you to “speak up,” or they fail to recognize that the television volume is excessively loud.
Here are some things you may hear:
- Needing individuals to talk louder
- In environments where there is lots of background noise, you have a more difficult time hearing clearly
- The volume of sounds seem lower than before
Conductive hearing loss often makes everyday sounds seem far off or muffled.
Sensorineural hearing loss causes sounds to be distorted
In cases of sensorineural hearing loss, not only are sounds softer, but they can also become distorted. It’s challenging to differentiate between similar sounds making conversations problematic.
What you may hear:
- Misunderstandings because you can’t distinguish vowels from consonants
- The sensation of hearing some sounds while others disappear into the background
- Unclear or distorted speech
This distorted speech can cause you to misinterpret important details without even knowing it, which can lead to barriers in communication and frustration.
The intermittent sounds of tinnitus
Tinnitus presents a unique auditory experience that can come with hearing loss. It can present as persistent or periodic sounds that overlap with outside noises.
You may hear the following:
- Sounds like ocean waves, chirping crickets, or whooshing wind
- Buzzing or static noises
- Ringing or hissing sounds that appear to come from within
Tinnitus symptoms can manifest in many ways and can significantly impact quality of life.
Identifying the sounds of changing hearing
Hearing loss can be a gradual process, and recognizing the sounds connected with it is crucial for early intervention. It’s probably time to make an appointment for a hearing consultation if you find yourself having trouble following along with conversations or needing people to frequently repeat what they said.
When is it time for a hearing test?
It’s essential to schedule an appointment with us for a hearing assessment if you are noticing tinnitus symptoms or any indications of hearing loss. We can help clarify the state of your hearing and provide you with the best course of treatment. Understanding what hearing loss sounds like can make a substantial difference in your quality of life. Don’t hesitate to seek help; your hearing health is important.
Contact us right away for a consultation.
