Hearing loss usually begins subtly. You may find yourself asking your kids 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 linked to hearing loss can help you recognize potential changes in your own hearing.
The soft sounds of conductive hearing loss
When normal sounds seem softer than they once did, this is a common sign of conductive hearing loss. You might not even realize that you’ve been cranking the volume of the television up or that your friends and family frequently ask you to “speak up”.
Here are a few things you may hear:
- The need for people to raise their voices
- The volume of sounds seem lower than they used to
- Difficulty hearing in noisy settings, where background noise drowns out softer sounds
This type of hearing loss might feel like a muffled auditory experience, making common sounds seem distant or indistinct.
The distorted sounds of sensorineural hearing loss
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 difficult.
What you might hear:
- Misunderstandings because you’re unable to distinguish vowels from consonants
- The sensation of hearing some sounds while others disappear into the background
- Speech that sounds muddled or unclear
This distorted speech can cause you to misinterpret important details without even realizing it, which can lead to barriers in communication and frustration.
The intermittent sounds of tinnitus
Tinnitus exhibits a unique auditory experience that can accompany hearing loss. It can manifest as consistent or periodic sounds that overlap with outside noises.
What you might hear:
- Whistling or hissing sounds that appear to come from within
- Sounds like ocean waves, chirping crickets, or whooshing 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.
Identifying the sounds of changing hearing
Hearing loss can be a gradual process, and identifying the sounds associated with it is essential for early intervention. It’s probably time to make an appointment for a hearing assessment if you find yourself having trouble following along with conversations or needing people to frequently repeat what they said.
When is it time for a hearing test?
If you suspect you are detecting any kind of hearing loss or tinnitus, scheduling a hearing test is crucial. Consulting with us can provide clarity on your condition and direct you toward correct treatment options. Knowing what hearing loss sounds like can make a substantial 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.