Hearing loss often begins subtly. You might dismiss your need for people to repeat themselves as them mumbling or background noise. But as you reflect on this moment, a question arises: Am I losing my hearing? Understanding the sounds related to hearing loss can help you recognize potential changes in your own hearing.
Conductive hearing loss makes the world sound softer
When normal sounds seem softer than they used to, this is a common indication of conductive hearing loss. You may notice that your loved one frequently asks you to “speak up,” or they fail to recognize that the television volume is excessively loud.
What you might hear:
- In environments where there is a lot of background noise, you have a more difficult time hearing clearly
- Sounds that are softer than before
- Needing individuals to talk louder
Conductive hearing loss frequently makes everyday sounds seem far off or muffled.
Sensorineural hearing loss causes sounds to be distorted
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.
What you may hear:
- Misunderstandings because you can’t distinguish vowels from consonants
- Being able to hear some sounds but not others
- Unclear or distorted speech
This distorted speech can cause you to misinterpret important details without even knowing it, which can produce barriers in communication and frustration.
The intermittent sounds of tinnitus
Hearing loss frequently comes with tinnitus symptoms. It can manifest as consistent or intermittent sounds that overlap with outside noises.
You might hear the following:
- Ocean-like waves, crickets chirping, or the whooshing of wind
- Buzzing or static sounds
- Internal hissing or ringing sounds in your ears
Each person’s experience with tinnitus can vary, but these intrusive sounds can significantly affect day-to-day life and the enjoyment of other sounds.
Recognizing the sounds of hearing changes
Hearing loss can be a gradual process, and recognizing the sounds associated with it is crucial for early intervention. If you find yourself frequently asking others to repeat what they said or struggling to follow conversations, it may be time to consider a hearing evaluation.
When to consult a hearing specialist
If you think you are experiencing any form 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. Your quality of life can be significantly improved by understanding what hearing loss sounds like. The health of your hearing is important so don’t wait to get the help you need.
Contact us right away for a consultation.