Unilateral hearing loss, also known as single-sided deafness, is a condition where an individual has difficulty hearing in one ear while the other ear has normal hearing. It can occur at any age but is more common in older adults.
Various factors, such as infections, injuries, tumors, or congenital defects, can cause the condition.
Treatment options may include hearing aids, cochlear implants, and assistive listening devices. In some cases, surgery may be necessary to correct the underlying cause of the hearing loss.
What Does Hearing Loss in One Ear Feel Like?
Hearing loss in one ear can feel like difficulty hearing or understanding speech and other sounds coming from the side of the affected ear.
It may also cause difficulty locating the source of a sound, as well as difficulty hearing in noisy environments.
Along with these difficulties, there are numerous symptoms of unilateral hearing loss, which we will discuss in this article.
The Symptoms of Unilateral Hearing Loss
The symptoms of unilateral hearing loss, also known as single-sided deafness, can include:
- Difficulty hearing or understanding speech and other sounds coming from the side of the affected ear.
- Difficulty locating the source of a sound.
- Difficulty hearing in noisy environments.
- Ringing in the ear (tinnitus) specifically on the affected ear.
- Dizziness or balance issues, as the brain is not receiving full information from both ears.
- Difficulty participating in group conversations or following group discussions.
- Fatigue, as the brain has to work harder to process sound from only one ear.
It is important to note that the severity of these symptoms can vary depending on the degree and cause of the hearing loss.
Unilateral Hearing Loss Management.
The management of unilateral hearing loss, also known as single-sided deafness, can include a combination of different treatments, depending on the underlying cause of the hearing loss and the severity of the symptoms.
Some common management options include:
Hearing aids:
A hearing aid can be worn on the side of the affected ear to amplify sounds and improve hearing.
Cochlear implants:
A cochlear implant is a device that is surgically implanted in the ear and can help provide a sense of sound to individuals with severe or profound hearing loss.
Assistive listening devices:
These can include devices such as FM systems, which transmit sound directly to the hearing aid or cochlear implant, and can be useful in noisy environments.
Sound amplification:
Some people with unilateral hearing loss benefit from amplifying sound in the environment. This can be done through a device like a Sound Field System in a classroom or a TV listener in the living room.
Surgery:
In some cases, surgery may be necessary to correct the underlying cause of the hearing loss.
Rehabilitation:
Speech therapy and auditory training can help individuals with unilateral hearing loss improve their listening skills and communication.
What You Should Do If You Are Experience Hearing Loss In One Ear.
If you think you have unilateral hearing loss, it is important to consult an audiologist for a proper diagnosis. Here are some steps you can take:
- Schedule an appointment: Call and schedule an appointment to have your hearing tested.
- Be prepared to discuss your symptoms: Be prepared to discuss any symptoms you may be experiencing, such as difficulty hearing in one ear, ringing in the ear, dizziness, or balance issues.
- Have your hearing tested: Our on-site audiologist will perform a hearing test, which will determine the degree and cause of your hearing loss.
- Discuss treatment options: Once diagnosed, we will discuss treatment options with you, which may include hearing aids, cochlear implants, assistive listening devices, surgery, sound amplification, and rehabilitation.
- Follow-up: Follow the treatment plan and schedule regular check-ups with our audiologist to monitor your progress and make adjustments to your treatment plan if necessary.
It’s important to seek professional help as soon as you suspect you have unilateral hearing loss, as early diagnosis and treatment can help prevent further deterioration of your hearing and improve your quality of life.
If you need to speak to an expert about any hearing related concerns, please do not hesitate to call on the given number or visit your local Berkeley Hearing Center clinic.
