Hearing loss usually starts out subtly. You might dismiss your need for people to repeat themselves as them mumbling or background noise. But when this happens, you begin to think that you may be starting to develop hearing loss. Understanding the sounds related to hearing loss can help you recognize potential changes in your own hearing.
The soft sounds of conductive hearing loss
When normal sounds seem softer than they used to, this is a common sign of conductive hearing loss. You may notice that your loved one frequently asks you to “speak up,” or they fail to recognize that the television volume is extremely loud.
What you may hear:
- Needing individuals to speak up
- Sounds that are softer than before
- In settings where there is lots of background noise, you have a harder time hearing clearly
This type of hearing loss might feel like a muffled auditory experience, making familiar sounds seem distant or indistinct.
Sensorineural hearing loss causes sounds to be distorted
In cases of sensorineural hearing loss, not only are sounds softer, but they can also become distorted. It’s challenging to differentiate between similar sounds making conversations problematic.
How it might sound:
- Unclear or distorted speech
- The experience of hearing some sounds while others disappear into the background
- Misunderstandings because you’re unable to distinguish vowels from consonants
This distorted speech can cause you to misinterpret important details without even knowing it, which can lead to barriers in communication and frustration.
Tinnitus symptoms
Hearing loss often comes with tinnitus symptoms. It can manifest as persistent or intermittent sounds that overlap with outside noises.
You might hear the following:
- Static, buzzing, or even a catchy melody stuck on repeat
- Internal hissing or screeching sounds in your ears
- Ocean-like waves, crickets chirping, or the whooshing of wind
Each person’s experience with tinnitus can differ, but these intrusive sounds can substantially impact daily life and the enjoyment of other sounds.
Identifying the sounds of changing hearing
Hearing loss usually develops slowly, and being aware of sounds that come along with it is essential for early treatment. It’s probably time to make an appointment for a hearing assessment if you find yourself having difficulty following along with conversations or needing people to frequently repeat themselves.
When to see a hearing specialist
If you think you are detecting any form of hearing loss or tinnitus, scheduling a hearing test is crucial. We can help clarify the state of your hearing and provide you with the best course of treatment. Understanding what hearing loss sounds like can make a substantial difference in your quality of life. Don’t wait to seek help; your hearing health is important.
Call us today to schedule your hearing test.
