Hearing loss often starts out subtly. You might find yourself asking your daughter to repeat something, disregarding it as mumbling or background noise. But as you think about 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 makes the world sound softer
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 realize that the television volume is extremely loud.
What you may hear:
- Sounds that are quieter than before
- In environments where there is a lot of background noise, you have a more difficult time hearing clearly
- Needing people to speak up
Conductive hearing loss frequently makes everyday sounds seem far away or muffled.
Sensorineural hearing loss causes sounds to be distorted
Besides becoming fainter, sounds will often also be distorted for someone who has sensorineural hearing loss. It’s challenging to distinguish between similar sounds making conversations problematic.
How it might sound:
- Unclear or distorted speech
- Problems distinguishing vowels from consonants, leading to misunderstandings
- Being able to hear some sounds but not others
This distorted speech can cause you to misinterpret important details without even realizing it, which can produce barriers in communication and frustration.
Tinnitus symptoms
Hearing loss frequently comes with tinnitus symptoms. It usually manifests as phantom sounds that aren’t really there, which can cause actual sounds to be even harder to hear.
What you might hear:
- Ringing or hissing sounds that appear to come from within
- Buzzing or static noises
- Ocean-like waves, crickets chirping, or the whooshing of wind
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 gradual process, and recognizing the sounds connected with it is essential for early intervention. It’s probably time to make an appointment for a hearing assessment if you find yourself having difficulty following along with conversations or needing people to frequently repeat what they said.
When to consult a hearing specialist
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 offer clarity on your condition and direct you toward appropriate treatment options. Knowing what hearing loss sounds like can make a substantial difference in your quality of life. Don’t hesitate to seek help; your hearing health is important.
Call us today to schedule your hearing test.