11/17/2025
MORE ABOUT HIDDEN HEARING LOSS
Some people have hearing loss that can’t be detected by standard hearing tests. These types of hearing loss are referred to as hidden hearing loss. Cochlear synaptopathy is one cause of hidden hearing loss that happens when the hair cells in the inner ear have a problem communicating with the auditory nerve, often caused by normal aging and noise exposure. This can lead to hearing issues even though the patient has normal hearing sensitivity. This type of hearing loss can be difficult to detect through regular hearing tests and may go undetected at regular screenings. When hidden hearing loss is suspected, patients may complete speech-in-noise tests, high-frequency audiometry, auditory brainstem response tests, and self-reporting questionnaires.
Hearing loss is determined by cause, type, and degree. Its effects can be due to disease, heredity, a noisy environment, or the aging process. To find the most appropriate solution to your particular hearing impairment, rely on the services of an audiologist. At LINDSAY EAR CLINIC, we present this column to educate the public on hearing loss and its effects and to help inform the millions of men, women, and children with hearing problems that help is available. Don’t suffer in a world of silence. Have a hearing test soon!
P.S. Hidden hearing loss can often be improved with open-fit hearing aids and communication strategies like lip reading.