Hearing loss usually begins subtly. You may find yourself asking your kids to repeat something, disregarding it as mumbling or background noise. But when this happens, you begin to think that you might be starting to develop hearing loss. Understanding the sounds linked to hearing loss can help you recognize potential changes in your own hearing.
Conductive hearing loss makes the world sound softer
For many people, conductive hearing loss manifests as sounds that seem softer than they once did. You might notice that your loved one often asks you to “speak up,” or they fail to recognize that the television volume is extremely loud.
What you might hear:
- Needing people to speak up
- The volume of sounds seem lower than before
- In settings where there is a lot of background noise, you have a harder time hearing clearly
This type of hearing loss may feel like a muffled auditory experience, making common sounds seem distant or faint.
The distorted sounds of sensorineural hearing loss
Besides becoming fainter, sounds will often also be distorted for someone who has sensorineural hearing loss. It’s challenging to differentiate between similar sounds making conversations difficult.
What you may hear:
- Problems distinguishing vowels from consonants, resulting in misunderstandings
- Speech that sounds muddled or distorted
- 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 lead to barriers in communication and frustration.
The intermittent sounds of tinnitus
Hearing loss frequently comes with tinnitus symptoms. It typically manifests as phantom sounds that aren’t actually there, which can cause actual sounds to be even harder to hear.
What you may hear:
- Buzzing or static noises
- Sounds like ocean waves, chirping crickets, or whooshing wind
- Whistling or hissing sounds that seem to come from within
Tinnitus symptoms can manifest in lots of ways and can significantly impact quality of life.
Recognizing the sounds of hearing changes
Hearing loss generally progresses slowly, and being aware of sounds that come along with it is essential for early treatment. If you find yourself frequently asking others to repeat themselves or struggling to follow conversations, it may be time to consider a hearing evaluation.
When is it time for a hearing exam?
If you suspect you are experiencing any form of hearing loss or tinnitus, scheduling a hearing test is crucial. Consulting with us can provide clarity on your condition and guide you toward appropriate treatment options. 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.