Normally, the first stages of hearing loss develop slowly. 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 identify potential changes in your own hearing.
Conductive hearing loss comes with softer sounds
For many, conductive hearing loss manifests as sounds that seem softer than they used to. You might not even realize that you’ve been cranking the volume of the television up or that your friends and family frequently ask you to “speak up”.
Here are some things you might hear:
- Difficulty hearing in loud settings, where background noise overwhelms softer sounds
- The volume of sounds seem lower than they used to
- The need for people to speak louder
This form of hearing loss may 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. Conversations may feel challenging as you struggle to distinguish between similar sounds.
What you might hear:
- Misunderstandings because you can’t differentiate vowels from consonants
- The experience of hearing some sounds while others fade into the background
- Unclear or distorted speech
This distortion can lead to frustrating communication barriers, where you think you understand what’s being said but misinterpret key details.
Tinnitus symptoms
Tinnitus exhibits a unique auditory experience that can accompany hearing loss. It typically manifests as phantom sounds that aren’t actually there, which can cause external sounds to be even more difficult to hear.
What you may hear:
- Sounds like ocean waves, chirping crickets, or whooshing wind
- Ringing or hissing sounds that seem to come from within
- Static, buzzing, or even a catchy melody stuck on repeat
Tinnitus symptoms can manifest in lots of ways and can substantially impact quality of life.
Distinguishing the sounds of hearing changes
Hearing loss can be a slow process, and identifying the sounds associated with it is crucial for early intervention. It’s probably time to schedule 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?
It’s important to schedule an appointment with us for a hearing test if you are noticing tinnitus symptoms or any indications of hearing loss. Consulting with us can provide clarity on your condition and direct you toward appropriate treatment options. Understanding what hearing loss sounds like can make a substantial difference in your quality of life. Don’t wait to get help; your hearing health is important.
Contact us right away for a consultation.
