Hearing loss often starts out subtly. You may dismiss your need for people to repeat themselves as them mumbling or background noise. But when this occurs, you begin to think that you might be starting to develop hearing loss. It will be easier to recognize whether your own hearing is changing by understanding the sounds that accompany hearing loss.
The soft sounds of conductive hearing loss
For many, conductive hearing loss manifests as sounds that seem softer than they once did. You may notice that your loved one often asks you to “speak up,” or they fail to realize that the television volume is excessively loud.
Here are a few things you may hear:
- The volume of sounds seem lower than before
- In environments where there is a lot of background noise, you have a harder time hearing clearly
- Needing individuals to talk louder
This form 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. Conversations may feel challenging as you struggle to distinguish between similar sounds.
How it might sound:
- Misunderstandings because you can’t differentiate vowels from consonants
- Speech that sounds muddled or unclear
- Being able to hear some sounds but not others
This distorted speech can cause you to misinterpret important details without even knowing it, which can lead to barriers in communication and frustration.
The intermittent sounds of tinnitus
Tinnitus presents a unique auditory experience that can come with hearing loss. It can manifest as persistent or periodic sounds that overlap with outside noises.
You might hear the following:
- Sounds like ocean waves, chirping crickets, or whooshing wind
- Buzzing or static sounds
- Whistling or hissing sounds that appear to come from within
Each individual’s experience with tinnitus can vary, but these invasive sounds can substantially affect day-to-day life and the enjoyment of other sounds.
Recognizing the sounds of hearing changes
Hearing loss generally develops slowly, and being conscious of sounds that come along with it is essential for early treatment. If you find yourself consistently asking people to repeat what they said or struggling to follow conversations, it might be time to consider a hearing evaluation.
When is it time for a hearing test?
If you think 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 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 wait to seek help; your hearing health is important.
Call us today to schedule your hearing test.