Hearing loss often starts out subtly. You may find yourself asking your daughter 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. It will be easier to recognize whether your own hearing is changing by understanding the sounds that accompany hearing loss.
Conductive hearing loss comes with softer sounds
When normal sounds seem softer than they used to, this is a common sign of conductive hearing loss. You might notice that your loved one often asks you to “speak up,” or they fail to recognize that the television volume is extremely loud.
Here are some things 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
- The need for people to raise their voices
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 often also be distorted for someone who has sensorineural hearing loss. Conversations might feel challenging as you struggle to distinguish between similar sounds.
What you might hear:
- Difficulty distinguishing consonants from vowels, causing misunderstandings
- The sensation of hearing some sounds while others disappear into the background
- Unclear or distorted speech
This distortion can lead to frustrating communication obstacles, where you think you comprehend what’s being said but misconstrue key details.
The intermittent sounds of tinnitus
Hearing loss often comes with tinnitus symptoms. It can present as persistent or periodic sounds that overlap with outside noises.
What you might hear:
- Buzzing or static noises
- Whistling or hissing sounds that appear to come from within
- Ocean-like waves, crickets chirping, or the whooshing of wind
Each individual’s experience with tinnitus can vary, but these intrusive sounds can significantly impact day-to-day life and the enjoyment of other sounds.
Recognizing the sounds of hearing changes
Hearing loss generally progresses slowly, and being aware of sounds that come along with it is crucial for early treatment. If you find yourself consistently asking people to repeat what they said or struggling to follow conversations, it could be time to think about a hearing evaluation.
When is it time for a hearing exam?
It’s essential to make an appointment with us for a hearing assessment if you are experiencing tinnitus symptoms or any indications of hearing loss. Consulting with us can offer clarity on your condition and guide you toward appropriate treatment solutions. Knowing what hearing loss sounds like can make a meaningful difference in your quality of life. Don’t wait to seek help; your hearing health is important.
Contact us right away for a consultation.