Hearing Loss Symptoms

Symptoms of conductive hearing loss

With conductive hearing loss, the overall volume of sound is reduced. Symptoms of conductive hearing loss may include: turning up the volume on the television or radio, asking people to repeat what they say, hearing in one ear better than the other, and difficulty hearing on the telephone. With conductive hearing loss, when volume is sufficiently increased, clarity and understanding are usually intact. Depending on the cause of the conductive hearing loss, other symptoms such as ear pain, drainage from the ears, or a feeling of pressure or blockage in the ears, may occur.

Symptoms of sensorineural hearing loss

With sensorineural hearing loss, the overall volume of sound may be reduced, and the clarity of sounds or voices may also be affected. People with sensorineural hearing loss sometimes say that they can hear people speaking, but can’t always understand all the words, even when the volume is adequate. Music may also sound distorted, even when the overall volume of the music is comfortable, leading to a decreased enjoyment of music. The symptoms of sensorineural hearing loss may include turning up the volume on the television or radio, asking people to repeat what they say, perception of people mumbling or not speaking clearly, lack of clarity when listening to speech, and difficulty hearing in noise.

Fortunately, there are many new and effective treatments for people with hearing loss to help them to hear better and to lead productive, fulfilling lives.