Unilateral Hearing Loss | Hearing Haven (806) 726-7813

Hearing is something we often take for granted—until something changes. If you or someone you love has been diagnosed with unilateral hearing loss (UHL), you might have questions. What is it? What causes it? And most importantly, what can be done about it? The experts at The Hearing Haven in Amarillo, Texas can help

What Is Unilateral Hearing Loss?

Unilateral hearing loss means that hearing is reduced or lost in only one ear. The other ear works just fine. Some people are born with this condition, while others develop it over time due to illness, injury, or unknown reasons. UHL can range from mild to complete deafness in the affected ear.

How Unilateral Hearing Loss Affects Daily Life

Even though one ear still hears well, UHL can make life more difficult. Some of the challenges include trouble telling where sounds are coming from, difficulty understanding speech in noisy places, struggling to hear someone talking on the affected side, and feeling off-balance or disoriented in crowded spaces. If any of these sound familiar, know that you’re not alone. Many people with UHL find ways to adjust, but the right treatment can make life much easier. The experts at The Hearing Haven can test to see what the trouble is that is causing the hearing loss.

What Causes Unilateral Hearing Loss?

There are several reasons why someone might experience hearing loss in just one ear. Here are some of the most common causes:

Sudden Sensorineural Hearing Loss (SSHL)

SSHL, or sudden deafness, happens quickly—sometimes within hours. It’s usually caused by damage to the inner ear or the nerves that send sound to the brain. Possible causes include viral infections, blood circulation problems, autoimmune diseases, sudden loud noise, or head truama. If you notice a sudden loss of hearing in one ear, seek medical help immediately. Fast treatment can improve the chances of recovery.

Ear Infections

Middle ear infections (otitis media) can lead to temporary UHL. If an infection goes untreated or happens repeatedly, it might cause permanent damage. Ear infections can also lead to fluid buildup, making sounds seem muffled.

Head Injuries and Trauma

A hard hit to the head can damage the ear’s delicate structures or the hearing nerve. Sports injuries, car accidents, or even a bad fall can result in UHL. Some people may notice ringing in the ear (tinnitus) along with hearing loss.

Acoustic Neuroma

An acoustic neuroma is a slow-growing tumor that develops on the hearing nerve. While usually benign (non-cancerous), it can press on the nerve and cause hearing loss, ringing, and balance problems.

Ménière’s Disease

This condition affects the inner ear and often causes episodes of vertigo (dizziness), ringing, and hearing loss. Though it usually affects both ears, some people develop it in just one.

Noise Exposure

Long-term exposure to loud noises—like concerts, construction sites, or even headphones at high volumes—can lead to permanent hearing damage in one ear.

Birth Defects and Genetic Factors

Some people are born with UHL due to genetic conditions or birth complications. Early diagnosis and intervention can help children with UHL develop better communication skills.

How Is Unilateral Hearing Loss Diagnosed?

If you think you might have UHL, the first step is seeing a hearing specialist. At The Hearing Haven in Amarillo, Texas, experts can perform tests to find out what’s causing the problem.

Common Hearing Tests

• Pure-tone audiometry – You listen to beeps at different pitches and volumes.
• Speech recognition tests – This checks how well you hear words at different noise levels.
• Imaging tests – MRI or CT scans can check for tumors or structural problems.

What Are the Treatment Options?

The good news is that there are many ways to manage UHL. The best solution depends on the cause and severity of the hearing loss. Emily Braun, founder of The Hearing Haven, can help you decide the best course of action.

Hearing Aids and Devices

Hearing aids aren’t just for people with full hearing loss. Special devices can help those with UHL by amplifying sound or sending it to the good ear.

• CROS (Contralateral Routing of Signal) hearing aids – These devices pick up sound from the affected ear and send it to the good ear.
• Bone conduction devices – These work by sending vibrations through the skull to bypass the damaged ear.

Cochlear Implants

For severe cases, a cochlear implant may be an option. This device bypasses the damaged parts of the ear and sends signals directly to the hearing nerve.

Medical Treatments

If an infection or inflammation is the cause, doctors might prescribe antibiotics, steroids, or other medications. In some cases, surgery might be needed to remove tumors or fix inner ear damage.

Assistive Listening Devices

Technology can help people with UHL navigate the world more easily. Some helpful tools include:

• FM systems – These use a microphone and receiver to make speech clearer in noisy places.
• Directional microphones – These help focus on sounds coming from specific directions.
• Smartphone apps – Some apps help amplify sound or provide real-time captions.

Living Well with Unilateral Hearing Loss

If you have UHL, there are ways to make daily life easier. Here are some tips:

• Position yourself wisely – Sit with your good ear facing the speaker in group settings.
• Reduce background noise – Choose quieter places for conversations when possible.
• Use visual cues – Pay attention to facial expressions and gestures to help understand speech.
• Let others know – Friends and family can help by speaking clearly and facing you.

The Hearing Haven in Amarillo, Texas Can Help

If you’re experiencing hearing loss in one ear, The Hearing Haven in Amarillo, Texas offers expert care and customized solutions. From diagnostic tests to hearing aids and treatment options, their team can help you find the best way to improve your hearing and quality of life.

Don’t let unilateral hearing loss hold you back. Schedule a hearing evaluation today and take the first step toward better hearing!

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