Hearing loss usually starts out subtly. You may find yourself asking your kids to repeat something, dismissing it as mumbling or background noise. But when this happens, you begin to think that you might be starting to develop hearing loss. Understanding the sounds associated with hearing loss can help you recognize potential changes in your own hearing.
The soft sounds of conductive hearing loss
For many, conductive hearing loss manifests as sounds that seem softer than they used to. You may notice that your partner often asks you to “speak up,” or they fail to realize that the television volume is extremely loud.
Here are some things you might hear:
- The need for people to speak louder
- In settings where there is a lot of background noise, you have a more difficult time hearing clearly
- The volume of sounds seem lower than they used to
This type of hearing loss might feel like a muffled auditory experience, making common sounds seem distant or faint.
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. It’s challenging to distinguish between similar sounds making conversations difficult.
How it might sound:
- Speech that sounds muddled or unclear
- Being able to hear some sounds but not others
- Problems distinguishing vowels from consonants, leading to misunderstandings
This distorted speech can cause you to misinterpret important details without even realizing it, which can produce barriers in communication and frustration.
Tinnitus symptoms
Hearing loss often comes with tinnitus symptoms. It typically manifests as phantom sounds that aren’t really there, which can cause external sounds to be even harder to hear.
You might hear the following:
- Static, buzzing, or even a catchy tune stuck on repeat
- Ocean-like waves, crickets chirping, or the whooshing of wind
- Internal hissing or ringing sounds in your ears
Each individual’s experience with tinnitus can vary, but these intrusive sounds can significantly affect daily life and the enjoyment of other sounds.
Identifying the sounds of changing hearing
Hearing loss can be a gradual process, and recognizing the sounds connected with it is crucial for early intervention. It’s probably time to make an appointment for a hearing assessment if you find yourself having difficulty following along with conversations or needing people to frequently repeat themselves.
When to consult a hearing specialist
If you think you are experiencing any form 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 solutions. Your quality of life can be significantly improved by knowing what hearing loss sounds like. Don’t hesitate to get help; your hearing health is important.
Contact us right away for a consultation.