Single sided deafness is when a severe to profound hearing loss occurs in one ear, commonly referred to as unilateral hearing loss in the hearing healthcare world. In these cases, the severity of the hearing loss makes it near impossible to hear from the affected ear. When one experiences this, they may put themselves in positions where their better ear is facing the direction of the sound. This type of hearing loss is becoming more common and worrisome.
Although it may be worrisome, there are options for individuals who suffer from this single sided deafness. Treatments range from a hearing aid (a device that amplifies sounds or speech you may have trouble otherwise hearing), a CROS/BiCROS system (a device is worn on both ears, transmitting sound from the hearing aid of the poor ear to the hearing aid of the good ear), a BAHS (a bone anchored hearing system that transmits the sound from the poor side to the good side using bone conduction) or a cochlear implant (a surgically implanted device in the inner ear that provides sound by stimulating the cochlear nerve).
If you feel like your hearing has changed, either in one or both ears, why not look into getting a hearing test? You can schedule a complimentary hearing assessment with one of our Canadian clinic locations through the link below:
WELCOME - The National Campaign for Better Hearing
References:
Unilateral Hearing Loss (Single-Sided Deafness): Symptoms & Management