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 emerges: 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 used to, this is a common indication of conductive hearing loss. You might not even recognize that you’ve been cranking the volume of the television up or that your friends and family frequently ask you to “speak up”.
Here are a few things you might 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
- Needing individuals to speak up
Conductive hearing loss often makes everyday sounds seem far off or muffled.
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.
What you might hear:
- Speech that sounds muddled or unclear
- The experience of hearing some sounds while others disappear into the background
- Problems distinguishing vowels from consonants, causing misunderstandings
This distortion can create frustrating communication obstacles, where you think you understand what’s being said but misconstrue key details.
The intermittent sounds of tinnitus
Tinnitus exhibits a unique auditory experience that can come with hearing loss. It normally manifests as phantom sounds that aren’t actually there, which can cause external sounds to be even more difficult to hear.
You might hear the following:
- Sounds like ocean waves, chirping crickets, or whooshing wind
- Static, buzzing, or even a catchy tune stuck on repeat
- Whistling or hissing sounds that seem to come from within
Each individual’s experience with tinnitus can differ, but these intrusive sounds can substantially impact daily life and the enjoyment of other sounds.
Distinguishing the sounds of hearing changes
Hearing loss can be a gradual process, and recognizing the sounds connected with it is crucial for early intervention. If you find yourself consistently asking others to repeat what they said or struggling to follow conversations, it may be time to think about a hearing assessment.
When to consult a hearing specialist
It’s essential to make an appointment with us for a hearing test if you are noticing tinnitus symptoms or any indications of hearing loss. Consulting with us can offer clarity on your condition and guide you toward correct treatment solutions. Understanding 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.
