Hearing loss usually starts out subtly. You might find yourself asking your daughter to repeat something, disregarding it as mumbling or background noise. But as you reflect on this moment, a question arises: Am I losing my hearing? Understanding the sounds linked to hearing loss can help you identify potential changes in your own hearing.
The soft sounds of conductive hearing loss
For many people, 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 recognize that the television volume is excessively loud.
What you may hear:
- Needing individuals to speak up
- Sounds that are softer than before
- In environments where there is lots of background noise, you have a harder time hearing clearly
Conductive hearing loss frequently makes everyday sounds seem far away or muffled.
Sensorineural hearing loss causes sounds to be distorted
Besides becoming softer, sounds will often also be distorted for someone who has sensorineural hearing loss. It’s challenging to distinguish between similar sounds making conversations difficult.
What you might hear:
- Misunderstandings because you’re unable to differentiate vowels from consonants
- The experience of hearing some sounds while others disappear into the background
- Speech that sounds muddled or unclear
This distorted speech can cause you to misinterpret important details without even realizing it, which can produce barriers in communication and frustration.
The intermittent sounds of tinnitus
Hearing loss frequently comes with tinnitus symptoms. It typically manifests as phantom sounds that aren’t actually there, which can cause external sounds to be even more difficult to hear.
You may hear the following:
- Sounds like ocean waves, chirping crickets, or whooshing wind
- Static, buzzing, or even a catchy melody stuck on repeat
- Internal hissing or ringing sounds in your ears
Each person’s experience with tinnitus can differ, but these intrusive sounds can significantly 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 crucial for early treatment. If you find yourself frequently asking people to repeat what they said or struggling to follow conversations, it may be time to think about a hearing assessment.
When to see a hearing specialist
It’s important to schedule an appointment with us for a hearing assessment if you are noticing tinnitus symptoms or any indications 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 meaningful difference in your quality of life. Don’t hesitate to seek help; your hearing health is important.
Contact us right away for a consultation.