Hearing loss usually begins subtly. You might find yourself asking your kids 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 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 used to. You might 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 may hear:
- Sounds that are quieter than before
- Needing individuals to speak up
- In environments where there is lots of background noise, you have a more difficult time hearing clearly
Conductive hearing loss often makes everyday sounds seem far off 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 problematic.
What you may hear:
- Misunderstandings because you can’t distinguish vowels from consonants
- Unclear or distorted speech
- Being able to hear some sounds but not others
This distorted speech can cause you to misconstrue 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 present as persistent or periodic sounds that overlap with external noises.
What you might hear:
- Ocean-like waves, crickets chirping, or the whooshing of wind
- Buzzing or static sounds
- Whistling or hissing sounds that appear to come from within
Tinnitus symptoms can manifest in lots of ways and can substantially impact quality of life.
Identifying the sounds of changing hearing
Hearing loss can be a slow process, and recognizing the sounds associated with it is essential for early intervention. If you find yourself frequently asking others to repeat what they said or struggling to follow conversations, it might be time to think about a hearing assessment.
When is it time for a hearing test?
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. Knowing what hearing loss sounds like can make a substantial difference in your quality of life. The health of your hearing is important so don’t wait to get the help you need.
Call us today to schedule your hearing test.
