Hearing loss usually starts out subtly. You might dismiss your need for people to repeat themselves as them mumbling or background noise. But when this happens, you begin to think that you might be starting to develop hearing loss. It will be easier to identify whether your own hearing is changing by understanding the sounds that go along with hearing loss.
Conductive hearing loss makes the world sound softer
When normal sounds seem softer than they once did, this is a common indication of conductive hearing loss. You may notice that your partner frequently asks you to “speak up,” or they fail to recognize that the television volume is extremely loud.
Here are a few things you might hear:
- Trouble hearing in noisy settings, where background noise drowns out softer sounds
- The need for people to raise their voices
- Sounds that are quieter than before
This type of hearing loss may feel like a muffled auditory experience, making common sounds seem distant or indistinct.
The distorted sounds of sensorineural hearing loss
In cases of sensorineural hearing loss, not only are sounds quieter, but they can also become distorted. Conversations might feel challenging as you struggle to differentiate between similar sounds.
What you may hear:
- The sensation of hearing some sounds while others disappear into the background
- Problems distinguishing consonants from vowels, causing misunderstandings
- Unclear or distorted speech
This distorted speech can cause you to misconstrue important details without even realizing it, which can lead to barriers in communication and frustration.
Tinnitus symptoms
Hearing loss frequently comes with tinnitus symptoms. It can present as persistent or periodic sounds that overlap with external 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
Tinnitus symptoms can manifest in many ways and can substantially impact quality of life.
Identifying the sounds of changing hearing
Hearing loss generally progresses slowly, and being conscious of sounds that come along with it is crucial for early treatment. It’s probably time to set up an appointment for a hearing consultation 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 exam?
It’s essential to make an appointment with us for a hearing assessment if you are noticing tinnitus symptoms or any indications of hearing loss. We can help clarify the state of your hearing and supply you with the best course of treatment. Understanding what hearing loss sounds like can make a substantial difference in your quality of life. Don’t hesitate to get help; your hearing health is important.
Contact us right away for a consultation.