Hearing loss usually begins subtly. You might dismiss your need for people to repeat what they said as them mumbling or background noise. But when this happens, you begin to think that you may be starting to develop hearing loss. Understanding the sounds associated with hearing loss can help you identify potential changes in your own hearing.
The soft sounds of conductive hearing loss
For many, conductive hearing loss manifests as sounds that seem softer than they once did. You may not even recognize that you’ve been cranking the volume of the television up or that your friends and family frequently ask you to “speak up”.
What you might hear:
- The need for others to raise their voices
- Difficulty hearing in noisy settings, where background noise drowns out softer sounds
- Sounds that are softer than before
This form of hearing loss might feel like a muffled auditory experience, making familiar sounds seem distant or indistinct.
Sensorineural hearing loss causes sounds to be distorted
Besides becoming fainter, sounds will frequently also be distorted for someone who has sensorineural hearing loss. Conversations may feel challenging as you struggle to distinguish between similar sounds.
What you might hear:
- Unclear or distorted speech
- Misunderstandings because you can’t distinguish vowels from consonants
- Being able to hear some sounds but not others
This distorted speech can cause you to misinterpret important details without even realizing it, which can produce barriers in communication and frustration.
The intermittent sounds of tinnitus
Tinnitus exhibits a unique auditory experience that can accompany hearing loss. It can present as persistent or intermittent sounds that overlap with outside noises.
You might hear the following:
- Static, buzzing, or even a catchy tune stuck on repeat
- Ringing or hissing sounds that appear to come from within
- Sounds like ocean waves, chirping crickets, or whooshing wind
Each individual’s experience with tinnitus can differ, but these intrusive sounds can substantially affect daily life and the enjoyment of other sounds.
Recognizing the sounds of hearing changes
Hearing loss usually develops slowly, and being aware of sounds that come along with it is essential for early treatment. If you find yourself consistently asking others to repeat what they said or struggling to follow conversations, it may be time to think about a hearing evaluation.
When to see a hearing specialist
If you suspect 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 supply you with the best course of treatment. Understanding what hearing loss sounds like can make a meaningful 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.
