Normally, the first stages of hearing loss develop slowly. You might dismiss your need for people to repeat themselves as them mumbling or background noise. But as you reflect on 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.
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 frequently asks you to “speak up,” or they fail to recognize that the television volume is excessively loud.
Here are some things you might hear:
- The volume of sounds seem lower than they used to
- Needing individuals to speak up
- Trouble hearing in loud settings, where background noise overwhelms softer sounds
This type of hearing loss might feel like a muffled auditory experience, making familiar sounds seem distant or faint.
The distorted sounds of sensorineural hearing loss
In cases of sensorineural hearing loss, not only are sounds quieter, but they can also become distorted. It’s challenging to distinguish between similar sounds making conversations difficult.
What you may hear:
- The sensation of hearing some sounds while others fade into the background
- Unclear or distorted speech
- Misunderstandings because you can’t distinguish vowels from consonants
This distortion can create frustrating communication barriers, where you think you understand what’s being said but misinterpret key details.
Tinnitus symptoms
Hearing loss often comes with tinnitus symptoms. It can manifest as consistent or intermittent sounds that overlap with outside noises.
You might hear the following:
- Internal hissing or screeching sounds in your ears
- Sounds like ocean waves, chirping crickets, or whooshing wind
- Static, buzzing, or even a catchy melody stuck on repeat
Tinnitus symptoms can manifest in many ways and can substantially impact quality of life.
Identifying the sounds of changing hearing
Hearing loss can be a gradual process, and identifying the sounds connected with it is crucial for early intervention. It’s probably time to set up 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 suspect you are experiencing any form of hearing loss or tinnitus, scheduling a hearing test is essential. We can help clarify the state of your hearing and supply you with the best course of treatment. Knowing what hearing loss sounds like can make a substantial difference in your quality of life. The health of your hearing is important so don’t wait to get the help you need.
Contact us right away for a consultation.
