Normally, the first stages of hearing loss develop 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 comes with softer sounds
For many, conductive hearing loss manifests as sounds that seem softer than they used to. You might not even recognize that you’ve been cranking the volume of the television up or that your friends and family regularly ask you to “speak up”.
Here are some things you may hear:
- The volume of sounds seem lower than they used to
- Trouble hearing in noisy settings, where background noise overwhelms softer sounds
- The need for people to speak louder
This form of hearing loss might feel like a muffled auditory experience, making common sounds seem distant or indistinct.
The distorted sounds of sensorineural hearing loss
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.
How it might sound:
- Problems distinguishing consonants from vowels, leading to misunderstandings
- Speech that seems muddled or unclear
- Being able to hear some sounds but not others
This distortion can create frustrating communication obstacles, where you think you comprehend what’s being said but misinterpret key details.
Tinnitus symptoms
Tinnitus presents a unique auditory experience that can accompany hearing loss. It can present as persistent or intermittent sounds that overlap with external noises.
What you might hear:
- Ringing or hissing sounds that seem to come from within
- Sounds like ocean waves, chirping crickets, or whooshing wind
- Buzzing or static noises
Each individual’s experience with tinnitus can differ, but these invasive sounds can substantially affect day-to-day life and the enjoyment of other sounds.
Identifying the sounds of changing hearing
Hearing loss generally progresses slowly, and being conscious of sounds that come along with it is essential for early treatment. It’s probably time to make an appointment for a hearing assessment if you find yourself having trouble following along with conversations or needing people to frequently repeat what they said.
When is it time for a hearing exam?
If you think you are detecting any kind of hearing loss or tinnitus, scheduling a hearing test is essential. Consulting with us can offer clarity on your condition and guide you toward correct treatment options. Knowing what hearing loss sounds like can make a substantial difference in your quality of life. Don’t wait to get help; your hearing health is important.
Call us today to schedule your hearing test.