Hearing loss often starts out subtly. 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? 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 makes the world sound softer
When normal sounds seem softer than they once did, this is a common indication of conductive hearing loss. You might notice that your partner frequently asks you to “speak up,” or they fail to recognize that the television volume is excessively loud.
Here are a few things you might hear:
- Sounds that are softer than before
- Difficulty hearing in loud settings, where background noise overwhelms softer sounds
- The need for people to raise their voices
Conductive hearing loss often makes everyday sounds seem far off or muffled.
The distorted sounds of sensorineural hearing loss
In cases of sensorineural hearing loss, not only are sounds softer, but they can also become distorted. It’s challenging to distinguish between similar sounds making conversations problematic.
How it may sound:
- Speech that sounds muddled or distorted
- The sensation of hearing some sounds while others fade into the background
- Misunderstandings because you’re unable to differentiate vowels from consonants
This distorted speech can cause you to misconstrue important details without even knowing it, which can produce barriers in communication and frustration.
Tinnitus symptoms
Hearing loss often comes with tinnitus symptoms. It can present as consistent or periodic sounds that overlap with outside noises.
You may hear the following:
- Static, buzzing, or even a catchy tune stuck on repeat
- Ringing or hissing sounds that appear to come from within
- Sounds like ocean waves, chirping crickets, or whooshing wind
Tinnitus symptoms can manifest in lots of ways and can substantially impact quality of life.
Identifying the sounds of changing hearing
Hearing loss usually progresses slowly, and being aware of sounds that come along with it is essential for early treatment. If you find yourself regularly asking people to repeat themselves or struggling to follow conversations, it might be time to consider a hearing assessment.
When is it time for a hearing exam?
It’s essential to make an appointment with us for a hearing test if you are experiencing tinnitus symptoms or any symptoms of hearing loss. Consulting with us can offer clarity on your condition and guide you toward appropriate treatment options. Knowing 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.
Call us today to schedule your hearing test.
