Normally, the first stages of hearing loss advance 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 arises: Am I losing my hearing? It will be easier to identify whether your own hearing is changing by understanding the sounds that go along with hearing loss.
Conductive hearing loss comes with softer sounds
For many, conductive hearing loss manifests as sounds that seem softer than they once did. You may notice that your loved one frequently asks you to “speak up,” or they fail to recognize that the television volume is excessively loud.
Here are a few things you may hear:
- Difficulty hearing in noisy settings, where background noise drowns out softer sounds
- The need for individuals to speak louder
- The volume of sounds seem lower than before
Conductive hearing loss frequently makes everyday sounds seem far off or muffled.
Sensorineural hearing loss causes sounds to be distorted
In cases of sensorineural hearing loss, not only are sounds quieter, but they can also become distorted. It’s challenging to differentiate between similar sounds making conversations difficult.
How it may sound:
- Unclear or distorted speech
- Being able to hear some sounds but not others
- Difficulty distinguishing consonants from vowels, causing misunderstandings
This distortion can lead to frustrating communication obstacles, where you think you comprehend what’s being said but misinterpret key details.
Tinnitus symptoms
Tinnitus exhibits a unique auditory experience that can come with hearing loss. It can manifest as persistent or periodic sounds that overlap with outside noises.
What you may hear:
- Whistling or hissing sounds that appear to come from within
- Sounds like ocean waves, chirping crickets, or whooshing wind
- Buzzing or static sounds
Each person’s experience with tinnitus can vary, but these intrusive sounds can substantially impact daily life and the enjoyment of other sounds.
Recognizing the sounds of hearing changes
Hearing loss generally develops slowly, and being conscious of sounds that come along with it is crucial for early treatment. If you find yourself frequently asking others to repeat what they said or struggling to follow conversations, it may be time to think about a hearing assessment.
When to see a hearing specialist
If you think you are experiencing any form of hearing loss or tinnitus, scheduling a hearing test is essential. Consulting with us can offer clarity on your condition and direct you toward correct treatment options. Understanding what hearing loss sounds like can make a meaningful difference in your quality of life. Don’t wait to get help; your hearing health is important.
Call us today to schedule your hearing test.