Hearing loss often starts out 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? It will be easier to identify whether your own hearing is changing by understanding the sounds that go along with hearing loss.
Conductive hearing loss comes with softer sounds
For many people, conductive hearing loss manifests as sounds that seem softer than they used to. You may notice that your loved one frequently asks you to “speak up,” or they fail to realize that the television volume is extremely loud.
Here are some things you might hear:
- Sounds that are softer than before
- In environments where there is lots of background noise, you have a more difficult 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 faint.
Sensorineural hearing loss causes sounds to be distorted
Besides becoming fainter, sounds will often also be distorted for someone who has sensorineural hearing loss. It’s challenging to differentiate between similar sounds making conversations difficult.
How it may sound:
- Difficulty distinguishing vowels from consonants, leading to misunderstandings
- The sensation of hearing some sounds while others fade into the background
- Speech that sounds muddled or distorted
This distorted speech can cause you to misinterpret important details without even knowing it, which can produce barriers in communication and frustration.
Tinnitus symptoms
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:
- Buzzing or static sounds
- Internal hissing or screeching sounds in your ears
- Sounds like ocean waves, chirping crickets, or whooshing wind
Each individual’s experience with tinnitus can vary, but these invasive sounds can significantly impact day-to-day life and the enjoyment of other sounds.
Distinguishing the sounds of hearing changes
Hearing loss can be a slow process, and identifying the sounds associated with it is essential for early intervention. It’s probably time to set up an appointment for a hearing assessment if you find yourself having difficulty following along with conversations or needing people to frequently repeat themselves.
When is it time for a hearing test?
If you suspect you are experiencing any kind of hearing loss or tinnitus, scheduling a hearing test is crucial. Consulting with us can offer clarity on your condition and direct you toward appropriate treatment solutions. Knowing what hearing loss sounds like can make a substantial difference in your quality of life. The health of your hearing is important so don’t wait to get the help you need.
Call us today to schedule your hearing test.