Hearing loss often begins subtly. You may 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 identify whether your own hearing is changing by understanding the sounds that accompany hearing loss.
The soft sounds of conductive hearing loss
When normal sounds seem softer than they used to, this is a common indication of conductive hearing loss. You might notice that your partner often asks you to “speak up,” or they fail to realize that the television volume is extremely loud.
What you may hear:
- The need for people to speak louder
- Sounds that are softer than before
- In environments where there is a lot of background noise, you have a more difficult 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 fainter, sounds will frequently also be distorted for somebody who has sensorineural hearing loss. It’s challenging to differentiate between similar sounds making conversations difficult.
What you may hear:
- Unclear or distorted speech
- The experience of hearing some sounds while others disappear into the background
- Difficulty distinguishing vowels from consonants, resulting in 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
Tinnitus presents a unique auditory experience that can accompany hearing loss. It usually manifests as phantom sounds that aren’t actually there, which can cause actual sounds to be even more difficult to hear.
What you may hear:
- Internal hissing or ringing sounds in your ears
- Sounds like ocean waves, chirping crickets, or whooshing wind
- Static, buzzing, or even a catchy tune stuck on repeat
Each individual’s experience with tinnitus can differ, but these invasive sounds can significantly affect daily life and the enjoyment of other sounds.
Identifying the sounds of changing hearing
Hearing loss normally progresses slowly, and being aware of sounds that come along with it is essential for early treatment. If you find yourself frequently asking people to repeat themselves or struggling to follow conversations, it could be time to think about a hearing assessment.
When to see a hearing specialist
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 guide you toward appropriate treatment solutions. Knowing what hearing loss sounds like can make a meaningful 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.