Hearing loss often starts out subtly. You might dismiss your need for people to repeat what they said as them mumbling or background noise. But as you reflect on this moment, a question emerges: Am I losing my hearing? 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 recognize that the television volume is excessively loud.
Here are a few things you might hear:
- The volume of sounds seem lower than before
- The need for people to speak louder
- In environments where there is a lot of background noise, you have a harder time hearing clearly
This type of hearing loss may feel like a muffled auditory experience, making familiar sounds seem distant or faint.
The distorted sounds of sensorineural hearing loss
Besides becoming fainter, sounds will frequently also be distorted for somebody who has sensorineural hearing loss. Conversations might feel challenging as you struggle to distinguish between similar sounds.
What you may hear:
- Unclear or distorted speech
- Problems distinguishing consonants from vowels, leading to misunderstandings
- The sensation of hearing some sounds while others disappear into the background
This distorted speech can cause you to misconstrue important details without even knowing it, which can produce barriers in communication and frustration.
The intermittent sounds of tinnitus
Tinnitus exhibits a unique auditory experience that can accompany hearing loss. It can present as persistent or periodic sounds that overlap with external noises.
You may hear the following:
- Internal hissing or ringing sounds in your ears
- Static, buzzing, or even a catchy melody stuck on repeat
- Sounds like ocean waves, chirping crickets, or whooshing wind
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 slow process, and recognizing the sounds connected with it is crucial for early intervention. If you find yourself regularly asking people to repeat themselves or struggling to follow conversations, it might be time to consider a hearing evaluation.
When to consult a hearing specialist
It’s important to schedule an appointment with us for a hearing assessment if you are experiencing tinnitus symptoms or any symptoms of hearing loss. Consulting with us can provide clarity on your condition and direct you toward correct treatment solutions. Your quality of life can be substantially improved by understanding what hearing loss sounds like. Don’t wait to seek help; your hearing health is important.
Call us today to schedule your hearing test.