Normally, the first stages of hearing loss advance slowly. You may 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? It will be easier to recognize whether your own hearing is changing by understanding the sounds that go along with hearing loss.
Conductive hearing loss comes with softer sounds
When normal sounds seem softer than they once did, this is a common sign of conductive hearing loss. You may notice that your partner often asks you to “speak up,” or they fail to recognize that the television volume is extremely loud.
Here are a few things you might hear:
- The volume of sounds seem lower than they used to
- The need for people to speak louder
- Difficulty hearing in loud settings, where background noise drowns out softer sounds
Conductive hearing loss frequently makes everyday sounds seem far off 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 distinguish between similar sounds making conversations problematic.
How it might sound:
- Unclear or distorted speech
- The sensation of hearing some sounds while others fade into the background
- Problems distinguishing consonants from vowels, causing misunderstandings
This distortion can create frustrating communication obstacles, where you think you comprehend what’s being said but misinterpret key details.
The intermittent sounds of tinnitus
Tinnitus exhibits a unique auditory experience that can come with hearing loss. It usually manifests as phantom sounds that aren’t really there, which can cause external sounds to be even more difficult to hear.
You might hear the following:
- Internal hissing or ringing sounds in your ears
- Static, buzzing, or even a catchy tune stuck on repeat
- Ocean-like waves, crickets chirping, or the whooshing of wind
Each individual’s experience with tinnitus can differ, but these invasive sounds can significantly impact day-to-day life and the enjoyment of other sounds.
Identifying the sounds of changing hearing
Hearing loss can be a gradual process, and recognizing the sounds associated with it is crucial for early intervention. It’s probably time to set up an appointment for a hearing consultation if you find yourself having trouble following along with conversations or needing people to frequently repeat what they said.
When to see a hearing specialist
If you suspect 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 appropriate treatment options. Understanding 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.
