Hearing loss often begins subtly. You may dismiss your need for people to repeat themselves as them mumbling or background noise. But as you think about this moment, a question arises: Am I losing my hearing? Understanding the sounds associated with hearing loss can help you identify potential changes in your own hearing.
The soft sounds of conductive hearing loss
When normal sounds seem softer than they once did, this is a common indication of conductive hearing loss. You might notice that your partner often asks you to “speak up,” or they fail to recognize that the television volume is excessively loud.
What you might hear:
- Trouble hearing in loud settings, where background noise drowns out softer sounds
- The volume of sounds seem lower than before
- Needing individuals to talk louder
Conductive hearing loss frequently makes everyday sounds seem far off or muffled.
Sensorineural hearing loss causes sounds to be distorted
Besides becoming softer, sounds will often also be distorted for someone who has sensorineural hearing loss. Conversations could feel challenging as you struggle to distinguish between similar sounds.
How it may sound:
- The experience of hearing some sounds while others fade into the background
- Difficulty distinguishing consonants from vowels, causing misunderstandings
- Unclear or distorted speech
This distorted speech can cause you to misconstrue important details without even realizing it, which can produce barriers in communication and frustration.
The intermittent sounds of tinnitus
Hearing loss frequently comes with tinnitus symptoms. It can manifest as persistent or periodic sounds that overlap with external noises.
You might hear the following:
- Whistling or hissing sounds that seem to come from within
- Buzzing or static sounds
- Ocean-like waves, crickets chirping, or the whooshing of wind
Each person’s experience with tinnitus can differ, but these intrusive sounds can substantially affect day-to-day life and the enjoyment of other sounds.
Identifying the sounds of changing hearing
Hearing loss normally develops slowly, and being aware of sounds that come along with it is essential 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 themselves.
When to see a hearing specialist
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. 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.
Contact us right away for a consultation.
