Hearing loss often begins subtly. You might find yourself asking your daughter to repeat something, disregarding it as mumbling or background noise. But when this occurs, you begin to think that you may be starting to develop hearing loss. Understanding the sounds related to hearing loss can help you identify potential changes in your own hearing.
The soft sounds of conductive hearing loss
When normal sounds seem softer than they once did, 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 extremely loud.
What you may hear:
- The volume of sounds seem lower than before
- In settings where there is lots of background noise, you have a more difficult time hearing clearly
- The need for people to speak louder
Conductive hearing loss frequently makes everyday sounds seem far away or muffled.
The distorted sounds of sensorineural hearing loss
In cases of sensorineural hearing loss, not only are sounds quieter, but they can also become distorted. It’s challenging to differentiate between similar sounds making conversations difficult.
How it might sound:
- Misunderstandings because you’re unable to distinguish vowels from consonants
- The sensation of hearing some sounds while others fade into the background
- Unclear or distorted speech
This distortion can create frustrating communication barriers, where you think you comprehend what’s being said but misconstrue key details.
Tinnitus symptoms
Hearing loss often comes with tinnitus symptoms. It can manifest as persistent or intermittent sounds that overlap with outside noises.
What you might hear:
- Static, buzzing, or even a catchy melody stuck on repeat
- Sounds like ocean waves, chirping crickets, or whooshing wind
- Internal hissing or screeching sounds in your ears
Each individual’s experience with tinnitus can vary, but these intrusive sounds can substantially impact day-to-day life and the enjoyment of other sounds.
Recognizing the sounds of hearing changes
Hearing loss normally progresses slowly, and being aware of sounds that come along with it is essential for early treatment. 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 exam?
It’s important to schedule an appointment with us for a hearing assessment if you are experiencing tinnitus symptoms or any symptoms of hearing loss. Consulting with us can provide clarity on your condition and direct you toward appropriate treatment solutions. Your quality of life can be substantially improved by knowing 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.
