Hearing loss usually starts out subtly. You might find yourself asking your daughter to repeat something, disregarding it as mumbling or background noise. But when this occurs, you begin to think that you may be starting to develop hearing loss. It will be easier to identify whether your own hearing is changing by understanding the sounds that accompany hearing loss.
Conductive hearing loss makes the world sound softer
For many people, conductive hearing loss manifests as sounds that seem softer than they once did. You might notice that your loved one frequently asks you to “speak up,” or they fail to realize that the television volume is excessively loud.
Here are some things you may hear:
- The volume of sounds seem lower than before
- The need for people to raise their voices
- In environments where there is a lot of background noise, you have a more difficult time hearing clearly
This form of hearing loss might feel like a muffled auditory experience, making familiar sounds seem distant or indistinct.
The distorted sounds of sensorineural hearing loss
Besides becoming softer, sounds will often also be distorted for someone who has sensorineural hearing loss. Conversations might feel challenging as you struggle to distinguish between similar sounds.
How it might sound:
- Being able to hear some sounds but not others
- Speech that seems muddled or unclear
- Difficulty distinguishing vowels from consonants, leading to misunderstandings
This distortion can lead to frustrating communication obstacles, where you think you understand what’s being said but misinterpret key details.
Tinnitus symptoms
Tinnitus exhibits a unique auditory experience that can accompany hearing loss. It can manifest as consistent or intermittent sounds that overlap with outside noises.
You may hear the following:
- Internal hissing or ringing sounds in your ears
- Ocean-like waves, crickets chirping, or the whooshing of wind
- Static, buzzing, or even a catchy tune stuck on repeat
Tinnitus symptoms can manifest in many ways and can substantially impact quality of life.
Recognizing the sounds of hearing changes
Hearing loss generally progresses slowly, and being aware of sounds that come along with it is essential for early treatment. If you find yourself frequently asking others to repeat themselves or struggling to follow conversations, it may be time to consider a hearing assessment.
When is it time for a hearing test?
If you suspect you are experiencing any kind of hearing loss or tinnitus, scheduling a hearing test is essential. We can help clarify the state of your hearing and provide you with the best course of treatment. Understanding what hearing loss sounds like can make a meaningful 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.