Typically, the first stages of hearing loss develop slowly. You may dismiss your need for people to repeat themselves as them mumbling or background noise. But when this occurs, you begin to think that you might be starting to develop hearing loss. Understanding the sounds related to hearing loss can help you identify potential changes in your own hearing.
The soft sounds of conductive hearing loss
For many people, conductive hearing loss manifests as sounds that seem softer than they once did. You might not even realize that you’ve been turning the volume of the television up or that your friends and family frequently ask you to “speak up”.
What you may hear:
- In environments where there is lots of background noise, you have a harder time hearing clearly
- The need for others to raise their voices
- Sounds that are quieter than before
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
Besides becoming fainter, sounds will often also be distorted for someone who has sensorineural hearing loss. Conversations could feel challenging as you struggle to distinguish between similar sounds.
How it might sound:
- Unclear or distorted speech
- Problems distinguishing consonants from vowels, causing misunderstandings
- Being able to hear some sounds but not others
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
Tinnitus exhibits a unique auditory experience that can accompany hearing loss. It can present as consistent or periodic sounds that overlap with external noises.
You may hear the following:
- Sounds like ocean waves, chirping crickets, or whooshing wind
- Internal hissing or screeching sounds in your ears
- Static, buzzing, or even a catchy tune stuck on repeat
Each person’s experience with tinnitus can vary, but these intrusive sounds can significantly affect day-to-day life and the enjoyment of other sounds.
Identifying the sounds of changing hearing
Hearing loss normally progresses slowly, and being conscious of sounds that come along with it is essential for early treatment. It’s probably time to schedule an appointment for a hearing consultation if you find yourself having difficulty following along with conversations or needing people to frequently repeat what they said.
When is it time for a hearing test?
It’s important to make 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 guide you toward correct treatment options. Your quality of life can be significantly improved by understanding what hearing loss sounds like. Don’t hesitate to get help; your hearing health is important.
Contact us right away for a consultation.