Symptoms of Deafness
Symptoms of deafness can range from subtle communication difficulties to complete loss of sound perception. The onset and progression of deafness may be sudden or gradual, and symptoms often depend on the underlying cause and severity of the hearing loss.
General Symptoms
Difficulty understanding speech, especially in noisy environments
Frequently asking people to repeat themselves
Mishearing words or misunderstanding conversations
Turning up the volume on TVs, radios, or phones
Withdrawal from conversations or social events due to communication challenges
Tinnitus, or a ringing, buzzing, or hissing sound in the ears, which often accompanies sensorineural hearing loss
Speaking louder than necessary, as people with hearing loss may not accurately gauge their own voice volume
Symptoms in Infants and Children
In young children, hearing loss may manifest as:
Delayed speech or language development
Inattentiveness or appearing to ignore voices or sounds
Not reacting to loud noises or failing to turn toward sound sources
Poor academic performance, especially in language-based subjects
Social difficulties, including frustration or behavioural issues due to communication barriers
Routine hearing screening in newborns and young children is critical to catch these signs early and intervene before developmental delays occur.
Sudden Deafness
Sudden sensorineural hearing loss (SSHL) is a rapid, unexplained loss of hearing, typically in one ear:
May happen within 72 hours or less
Often considered a medical emergency
Requires immediate treatment to improve chances of recovery
Unilateral vs Bilateral Deafness | Symptoms of Deafness
Unilateral deafness affects one ear and may cause difficulty localising sounds
Bilateral deafness affects both ears and is usually more disabling, especially in speech perception
Symptoms Related to Balance
As the inner ear controls balance, some individuals may experience:
Vertigo
Loss of balance
Nausea or disorientation
In summary, symptoms of deafness can be mild or severe and often evolve over time. Recognising these early signs is vital for seeking professional help and preventing further deterioration of hearing.
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