Normally, the first stages of hearing loss advance slowly. You may find yourself asking your daughter to repeat something, dismissing it as mumbling or background noise. But as you reflect on this moment, a question arises: Am I losing my hearing? It will be easier to recognize whether your own hearing is changing by understanding the sounds that go along with hearing loss.
Conductive hearing loss comes with softer sounds
When normal sounds seem softer than they used to, this is a common indication of conductive hearing loss. You may notice that your loved one frequently asks you to “speak up,” or they fail to recognize that the television volume is excessively loud.
What you may hear:
- The volume of sounds seem lower than before
- In settings where there is a lot of background noise, you have a more difficult time hearing clearly
- The need for people to speak louder
This form of hearing loss might feel like a muffled auditory experience, making common sounds seem distant or indistinct.
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.
How it may sound:
- Being able to hear some sounds but not others
- Unclear or distorted speech
- Problems distinguishing consonants from vowels, leading to misunderstandings
This distorted speech can cause you to misconstrue important details without even realizing it, which can lead to barriers in communication and frustration.
Tinnitus symptoms
Tinnitus presents a unique auditory experience that can come with hearing loss. It can present as consistent or intermittent sounds that overlap with outside noises.
What you may hear:
- Ocean-like waves, crickets chirping, or the whooshing of wind
- Static, buzzing, or even a catchy melody stuck on repeat
- Ringing or hissing sounds that appear to come from within
Tinnitus symptoms can manifest in many ways and can substantially impact quality of life.
Recognizing the sounds of hearing changes
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 could be time to think about a hearing assessment.
When to see a hearing specialist
It’s important to schedule an appointment with us for a hearing assessment if you are experiencing tinnitus symptoms or any indications of hearing loss. 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. The health of your hearing is important so don’t wait to get the help you need.
Contact us right away for a consultation.
