Hearing loss often begins subtly. You might 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 may 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 once did. You might notice that your partner frequently asks you to “speak up,” or they fail to realize that the television volume is excessively loud.
Here are a few things you may hear:
- The volume of sounds seem lower than they used to
- Needing individuals to speak up
- Difficulty hearing in noisy settings, where background noise drowns out softer sounds
This form of hearing loss may feel like a muffled auditory experience, making familiar sounds seem distant or indistinct.
The distorted sounds of sensorineural hearing loss
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 might sound:
- Unclear or distorted speech
- Being able to hear some sounds but not others
- Problems distinguishing consonants from vowels, causing misunderstandings
This distortion can create frustrating communication barriers, where you think you understand what’s being said but misconstrue key details.
The intermittent sounds of tinnitus
Hearing loss often comes with tinnitus symptoms. It usually manifests as phantom sounds that aren’t really there, which can cause actual sounds to be even harder to hear.
You might hear the following:
- Buzzing or static sounds
- Whistling or hissing sounds that seem to come from within
- Sounds like ocean waves, chirping crickets, or whooshing wind
Tinnitus symptoms can manifest in many ways and can significantly impact quality of life.
Identifying the sounds of changing hearing
Hearing loss generally progresses slowly, and being aware of sounds that come along with it is essential for early treatment. If you find yourself frequently asking others to repeat themselves or struggling to follow conversations, it might be time to consider a hearing evaluation.
When is it time for a hearing test?
It’s important to make an appointment with us for a hearing assessment if you are noticing tinnitus symptoms or any indications of hearing loss. Consulting with us can offer clarity on your condition and direct you toward correct treatment solutions. Knowing what hearing loss sounds like can make a substantial difference in your quality of life. Don’t hesitate to seek help; your hearing health is important.
Call us today to schedule your hearing test.