Usually, 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 may be starting to develop hearing loss. Understanding the sounds linked to 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 not even realize that you’ve been cranking the volume of the television up or that your friends and family frequently ask you to “speak up”.
What you might hear:
- In environments where there is a lot of background noise, you have a more difficult time hearing clearly
- The need for individuals to speak louder
- The volume of sounds seem lower than before
Conductive hearing loss frequently makes everyday sounds seem far off or muffled.
Sensorineural hearing loss causes sounds to be distorted
In cases of sensorineural hearing loss, not only are sounds softer, but they can also become distorted. Conversations may feel challenging as you struggle to distinguish between similar sounds.
What you might hear:
- Being able to hear some sounds but not others
- Unclear or distorted speech
- Problems distinguishing consonants from vowels, causing misunderstandings
This distortion can lead to frustrating communication obstacles, where you think you comprehend what’s being said but misinterpret key details.
The intermittent sounds of tinnitus
Hearing loss frequently comes with tinnitus symptoms. It can manifest as consistent or periodic sounds that overlap with outside noises.
You might hear the following:
- Buzzing or static noises
- Ringing or hissing sounds that seem to come from within
- Sounds like ocean waves, chirping crickets, or whooshing wind
Tinnitus symptoms can manifest in lots of ways and can substantially impact quality of life.
Recognizing the sounds of hearing changes
Hearing loss generally progresses slowly, and being conscious of sounds that come along with it is essential for early treatment. It’s probably time to make an appointment for a hearing consultation if you find yourself having difficulty following along with conversations or needing people to frequently repeat themselves.
When to see 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 provide clarity on your condition and guide you toward correct treatment options. Knowing 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.