Hearing loss usually starts out subtly. You may find yourself asking your daughter to repeat something, disregarding it as 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 accompany hearing loss.
The soft sounds of conductive hearing loss
When normal sounds seem softer than they used to, this is a common sign of conductive hearing loss. You may not even realize that you’ve been turning the volume of the television up or that your friends and family frequently ask you to “speak up”.
What you might hear:
- The need for individuals to speak louder
- Sounds that are quieter than before
- Trouble hearing in noisy settings, where background noise overwhelms softer sounds
This type of hearing loss may feel like a muffled auditory experience, making common sounds seem distant or faint.
Sensorineural hearing loss causes sounds to be distorted
Besides becoming fainter, sounds will frequently also be distorted for somebody who has sensorineural hearing loss. Conversations may feel challenging as you struggle to distinguish between similar sounds.
How it may sound:
- Being able to hear some sounds but not others
- Problems distinguishing vowels from consonants, resulting in 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.
Tinnitus symptoms
Tinnitus exhibits a unique auditory experience that can come with hearing loss. It can manifest as persistent or periodic sounds that overlap with external noises.
You might hear the following:
- Ringing or hissing sounds that seem to come from within
- Buzzing or static noises
- Sounds like ocean waves, chirping crickets, or whooshing wind
Each person’s experience with tinnitus can vary, but these invasive sounds can substantially impact daily life and the enjoyment of other sounds.
Distinguishing the sounds of hearing changes
Hearing loss usually develops slowly, and being conscious of sounds that come along with it is crucial for early treatment. It’s probably time to schedule an appointment for a hearing consultation if you find yourself having difficulty following along with conversations or needing people to frequently repeat what they said.
When is it time for a hearing test?
It’s important to schedule an appointment with us for a hearing test if you are experiencing tinnitus symptoms or any symptoms of hearing loss. Consulting with us can provide clarity on your condition and guide you toward correct treatment solutions. Understanding what hearing loss sounds like can make a substantial difference in your quality of life. Don’t wait to seek help; your hearing health is important.
Contact us right away for a consultation.