Hearing loss usually begins subtly. You may dismiss your need for people to repeat themselves 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 associated with hearing loss can help you recognize potential changes in your own hearing.

The soft sounds of conductive hearing loss

For many people, conductive hearing loss manifests as sounds that seem softer than they used to. You might not even recognize that you’ve been turning the volume of the television up or that your friends and family regularly ask you to “speak up”.

What you may hear:

Sounds that are softer than before
Difficulty hearing in loud settings, where background noise overwhelms softer sounds
Needing individuals to talk louder

Conductive hearing loss often makes everyday sounds seem far away 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 could 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, resulting in misunderstandings

This distorted speech can cause you to misconstrue important details without even knowing it, which can produce barriers in communication and frustration.

The intermittent sounds of tinnitus

Hearing loss frequently comes with tinnitus symptoms. It can manifest as persistent or intermittent sounds that overlap with external noises.

What you may hear:

Internal hissing or screeching sounds in your ears
Buzzing or static noises
Sounds like ocean waves, chirping crickets, or whooshing wind

Each person’s experience with tinnitus can vary, but these invasive sounds can substantially affect day-to-day life and the enjoyment of other sounds.

Recognizing the sounds of hearing changes

Hearing loss normally develops slowly, and being conscious of sounds that come along with it is crucial for early treatment. It’s probably time to schedule an appointment for a hearing assessment if you find yourself having difficulty following along with conversations or needing people to frequently repeat themselves.

When is it time for a hearing exam?

If you suspect you are experiencing any kind of hearing loss or tinnitus, scheduling a hearing test is crucial. Consulting with us can provide clarity on your condition and direct you toward correct treatment solutions. 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.