Typically, the first stages of hearing loss advance slowly. You may dismiss your need for people to repeat what they said as them mumbling or background noise. But when this occurs, you begin to think that you might be starting to develop hearing loss. Understanding the sounds linked to hearing loss can help you identify 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 used to. You may notice that your loved one often asks you to “speak up,” or they fail to recognize that the television volume is excessively loud.
What you might hear:
- The volume of sounds seem lower than before
- Difficulty hearing in noisy settings, where background noise overwhelms softer sounds
- Needing individuals to speak up
This type of hearing loss might feel like a muffled auditory experience, making common sounds seem distant or faint.
Sensorineural hearing loss causes sounds to be distorted
In cases of sensorineural hearing loss, not only are sounds quieter, but they can also become distorted. Conversations may feel challenging as you struggle to distinguish between similar sounds.
What you might hear:
- The sensation of hearing some sounds while others disappear into the background
- Unclear or distorted speech
- Problems distinguishing consonants from vowels, resulting in misunderstandings
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
Hearing loss often comes with tinnitus symptoms. It usually manifests as phantom sounds that aren’t really there, which can cause external sounds to be even harder to hear.
What you may hear:
- Static, buzzing, or even a catchy melody stuck on repeat
- Ocean-like waves, crickets chirping, or the whooshing of wind
- Internal hissing or ringing sounds in your ears
Tinnitus symptoms can manifest in many ways and can substantially impact quality of life.
Identifying the sounds of changing hearing
Hearing loss normally progresses slowly, and being aware of sounds that come along with it is crucial for early treatment. It’s probably time to schedule an appointment for a hearing consultation if you find yourself having trouble following along with conversations or needing people to frequently repeat what they said.
When to see a hearing specialist
It’s essential to make an appointment with us for a hearing test if you are experiencing tinnitus symptoms or any indications of hearing loss. 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 meaningful difference in your quality of life. Don’t hesitate to get help; your hearing health is important.
Contact us right away for a consultation.