I know that certain medications can have this side effect both new rx's and one's you may have been on for a while.

Funny, I also have pauses sometimes. Necessary to formulate a response in my head that makes sense.

One other possibility, have you had your hearing checked lately?

Some of what you are describing could also be attributed to hearing loss or problems within the ear even something as simple as wax that has traveled deep into the ear.

Keep us posted.