Hearing loss usually starts out subtly. You may find yourself asking your kids to repeat something, dismissing it as mumbling or background noise. But when this happens, 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.
Conductive hearing loss comes with softer sounds
For many, conductive hearing loss manifests as sounds that seem softer than they once did. You may notice that your partner frequently asks you to “speak up,” or they fail to realize that the television volume is extremely loud.
What you may hear:
- Sounds that are softer than before
- In settings where there is lots of background noise, you have a harder time hearing clearly
- Needing individuals to speak up
Conductive hearing loss often makes everyday sounds seem far away or muffled.
Sensorineural hearing loss causes sounds to be distorted
Besides becoming softer, sounds will frequently also be distorted for someone who has sensorineural hearing loss. It’s challenging to differentiate between similar sounds making conversations problematic.
What you may hear:
- Misunderstandings because you can’t distinguish vowels from consonants
- Speech that sounds muddled or distorted
- The sensation of hearing some sounds while others fade into the background
This distorted speech can cause you to misconstrue important details without even knowing it, which can produce barriers in communication and frustration.
Tinnitus symptoms
Hearing loss often comes with tinnitus symptoms. It normally manifests as phantom sounds that aren’t really there, which can cause actual sounds to be even more difficult to hear.
You may hear the following:
- Whistling or hissing sounds that appear to come from within
- Static, buzzing, or even a catchy melody stuck on repeat
- Ocean-like waves, crickets chirping, or the whooshing of wind
Tinnitus symptoms can manifest in many ways and can substantially impact quality of life.
Recognizing the sounds of hearing changes
Hearing loss generally develops slowly, and being conscious of sounds that come along with it is essential for early treatment. It’s probably time to set up an appointment for a hearing assessment if you find yourself having trouble following along with conversations or needing people to frequently repeat themselves.
When to consult a hearing specialist
It’s essential to schedule an appointment with us for a hearing assessment if you are noticing tinnitus symptoms or any indications of hearing loss. Consulting with us can offer clarity on your condition and direct you toward correct treatment solutions. Understanding what hearing loss sounds like can make a meaningful 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.