Usually, the first stages of hearing loss develop slowly. You may find yourself asking your kids to repeat something, disregarding it as 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 recognize potential changes in your own hearing.
Conductive hearing loss makes the world sound softer
When normal sounds seem softer than they once did, this is a common sign of conductive hearing loss. You may not even realize that you’ve been turning the volume of the television up or that your friends and family regularly ask you to “speak up”.
Here are a few things you might hear:
- Sounds that are softer than before
- The need for others to raise their voices
- In environments where there is a lot of background noise, you have a harder time hearing clearly
Conductive hearing loss often makes everyday sounds seem far away or muffled.
Sensorineural hearing loss causes sounds to be distorted
Besides becoming fainter, sounds will frequently also be distorted for someone who has sensorineural hearing loss. It’s challenging to distinguish between similar sounds making conversations problematic.
What you might hear:
- Unclear or distorted speech
- The experience of hearing some sounds while others disappear into the background
- Problems distinguishing consonants from vowels, resulting in misunderstandings
This distortion can lead to frustrating communication barriers, where you think you understand what’s being said but misconstrue key details.
The intermittent sounds of tinnitus
Tinnitus presents a unique auditory experience that can come with hearing loss. It can present as persistent or periodic sounds that overlap with external noises.
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 screeching sounds in your ears
Each individual’s experience with tinnitus can vary, but these invasive sounds can substantially impact day-to-day life and the enjoyment of other sounds.
Distinguishing the sounds of hearing changes
Hearing loss normally progresses slowly, and being conscious of sounds that come along with it is crucial for early treatment. It’s probably time to set up an appointment for a hearing consultation if you find yourself having trouble following along with conversations or needing people to frequently repeat themselves.
When to see a hearing specialist
If you suspect you are experiencing any kind of hearing loss or tinnitus, scheduling a hearing test is crucial. Consulting with us can offer clarity on your condition and guide you toward correct treatment options. Understanding what hearing loss sounds like can make a substantial difference in your quality of life. Don’t wait to seek help; your hearing health is important.
Contact us right away for a consultation.
