Normally, the first stages of hearing loss advance slowly. 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 emerges: Am I losing my hearing? It will be easier to recognize whether your own hearing is changing by understanding the sounds that go along with hearing loss.
Conductive hearing loss makes the world sound softer
For many, conductive hearing loss manifests as sounds that seem softer than they once did. You might notice that your loved one often asks you to “speak up,” or they fail to realize that the television volume is excessively loud.
Here are a few things you may hear:
- Sounds that are quieter than before
- In settings where there is lots of background noise, you have a harder time hearing clearly
- Needing people to talk louder
This form of hearing loss might feel like a muffled auditory experience, making familiar sounds seem distant or indistinct.
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. Conversations could feel challenging as you struggle to differentiate between similar sounds.
What you might hear:
- Unclear or distorted speech
- The experience of hearing some sounds while others fade into the background
- Misunderstandings because you’re unable to distinguish vowels from consonants
This distortion can lead to frustrating communication barriers, where you think you understand what’s being said but misconstrue key details.
Tinnitus symptoms
Tinnitus presents a unique auditory experience that can accompany hearing loss. It can manifest as consistent or periodic sounds that overlap with outside noises.
You may hear the following:
- Static, buzzing, or even a catchy tune stuck on repeat
- Sounds like ocean waves, chirping crickets, or whooshing wind
- Internal hissing or screeching sounds in your ears
Tinnitus symptoms can manifest in lots of ways and can substantially impact quality of life.
Identifying the sounds of changing hearing
Hearing loss usually develops slowly, and being aware of sounds that come along with it is crucial for early treatment. It’s probably time to set up an appointment for a hearing consultation if you find yourself having trouble following along with conversations or needing people to frequently repeat themselves.
When is it time for a hearing test?
It’s essential to schedule an appointment with us for a hearing test if you are noticing tinnitus symptoms or any indications of hearing loss. Consulting with us can provide clarity on your condition and guide you toward appropriate treatment options. Knowing what hearing loss sounds like can make a meaningful difference in your quality of life. Don’t wait to get help; your hearing health is important.
Contact us right away for a consultation.
