Hearing loss usually starts out subtly. You may find yourself asking your daughter to repeat something, dismissing it as mumbling or background noise. But as you think about this moment, a question emerges: Am I losing my hearing? It will be easier to recognize whether your own hearing is changing by understanding the sounds that accompany hearing loss.
Conductive hearing loss makes the world sound softer
For many, conductive hearing loss manifests as sounds that seem softer than they used to. You might notice that your loved one often asks you to “speak up,” or they fail to realize that the television volume is extremely loud.
What you may hear:
- The need for individuals to raise their voices
- In environments where there is lots of background noise, you have a harder time hearing clearly
- The volume of sounds seem lower than they used to
This type of hearing loss might feel like a muffled auditory experience, making familiar 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 might feel challenging as you struggle to distinguish between similar sounds.
What you might hear:
- Problems distinguishing consonants from vowels, leading to misunderstandings
- Unclear or distorted speech
- Being able to hear some sounds but not others
This distortion can create frustrating communication obstacles, where you think you understand what’s being said but misinterpret key details.
Tinnitus symptoms
Tinnitus exhibits a unique auditory experience that can accompany hearing loss. It can present as consistent or periodic sounds that overlap with outside noises.
You might hear the following:
- Static, buzzing, or even a catchy tune stuck on repeat
- Ringing or hissing sounds that appear to come from within
- Ocean-like waves, crickets chirping, or the whooshing of wind
Each person’s experience with tinnitus can differ, but these intrusive sounds can significantly impact daily life and the enjoyment of other sounds.
Identifying the sounds of changing hearing
Hearing loss normally progresses slowly, and being conscious of sounds that come along with it is essential for early treatment. If you find yourself consistently asking others to repeat themselves or struggling to follow conversations, it may be time to think about a hearing assessment.
When is it time for a hearing test?
If you think you are experiencing any kind of hearing loss or tinnitus, scheduling a hearing test is crucial. 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 seek help; your hearing health is important.
Call us today to schedule your hearing test.