Typically, the first stages of hearing loss develop slowly. You may find yourself asking your kids to repeat something, dismissing it as 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 comes with softer sounds
For many, conductive hearing loss manifests as sounds that seem softer than they once did. You might notice that your partner frequently asks you to “speak up,” or they fail to realize that the television volume is extremely loud.
Here are some things you may hear:
- Sounds that are softer than before
- Trouble hearing in noisy settings, where background noise overwhelms softer sounds
- Needing people to talk louder
This type of hearing loss might feel like a muffled auditory experience, making common sounds seem distant or indistinct.
Sensorineural hearing loss causes sounds to be distorted
Besides becoming softer, sounds will often also be distorted for somebody who has sensorineural hearing loss. Conversations might feel challenging as you struggle to differentiate between similar sounds.
What you might hear:
- Difficulty distinguishing consonants from vowels, causing misunderstandings
- Being able to hear some sounds but not others
- Unclear or distorted speech
This distortion can create frustrating communication barriers, where you think you understand what’s being said but misinterpret key details.
Tinnitus symptoms
Tinnitus exhibits a unique auditory experience that can come with hearing loss. It normally manifests as phantom sounds that aren’t really there, which can cause actual sounds to be even harder to hear.
What you may hear:
- Static, buzzing, or even a catchy melody stuck on repeat
- Sounds like ocean waves, chirping crickets, or whooshing wind
- Whistling or hissing sounds that seem to come from within
Tinnitus symptoms can manifest in many ways and can substantially impact quality of life.
Recognizing the sounds of hearing changes
Hearing loss can be a slow process, and recognizing the sounds connected with it is crucial for early intervention. It’s probably time to schedule an appointment for a hearing assessment if you find yourself having trouble following along with conversations or needing people to frequently repeat themselves.
When is it time for a hearing test?
If you suspect you are detecting any form of hearing loss or tinnitus, scheduling a hearing test is essential. Consulting with us can provide clarity on your condition and direct you toward correct treatment solutions. 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.