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Exposure to noise may not appear to be a significant threat, but it can have a significant impact on your hearing. There are permanent and temporary forms of hearing loss that are caused by exposure to noise, which may occur in one or both ears.

About 15% of American adults (aged 20-69) have noise induced hearing loss (NIHL). Noise induced hearing loss can be temporary, or it can be permanent.

Ask yourself this: Have you ever left a loud venue (like a music concert) and felt like you were struggling to hear? Perhaps you had a persistent ringing (tinnitus) in your ears. If you answered "yes," then you've likely experienced temporary hearing loss due to noise.

How Can Noise Damage Your Hearing?

For us to hear, our ears essentially transform sound waves in the air into electrical signals that are carried by the auditory nerve for interpretation in the brain. Tiny hair cells that sit on top of the ear's basilar membrane are a major player in this process, and most cases of NIHL are due to damage to these hair cells (which can't grow back).

Sometimes noise can cause something called a temporary threshold shift (TTS) -a reversible type of hearing loss commonly caused by sounds like gunshots and firecrackers or as a result of tinnitus.

Temporary Threshold Shift (TTS) is a temporary hearing loss or tinnitus. As the name suggests, it is a temporary situation.

What is actually happening to your ears is a temporary shift in your auditory threshold. When exposed to extreme bouts of loud noise, the tiny hair cells in your ear can be pushed over. Even after the sound disappears, these hairs can take some time to recover to their normal position. As a result, you feel as though your hearing is muffled and in some cases experience tinnitus.

Although TTS is a temporary condition, repeatedly experiencing TTS is a sign that you are exposing yourself to dangerous noise regularly. Regular exposure to dangerous noise can result in Permanent Threshold Shift (PTS), which can lead to permanent hearing loss.

Temporary Threshold Shift - The Basics

Temporary threshold shift is caused by exposure to extreme levels of noise. This could be over a short period, like if you've stood next to an explosion. It could also take some time, like a music concert.

Symptoms of TTS most commonly include:

If you're experiencing symptoms of temporary threshold shift, you need to give your ears time to recover. Find a quiet place to allow your ears time to readjust, and avoid exposure to loud noise.

Temporary threshold shift may resolve itself within a matter of hours. In some cases, it may take a few days. If after a few days you're still experiencing symptoms, we recommend speaking to your hearing healthcare specialist.

Trust the Experts at Anderson Audiology

If you suspect that you're experiencing hearing loss, please don't delay seeking help. The hearing healthcare professionals at Anderson Audiology are on hand to help. Call the team today on 702-997-2964. Alternatively, click here to request an appointment online.

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What is Temporary Threshold Shift (TTS)? | Anderson Audiology

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What is Temporary Threshold Shift (TTS)? How can you protect yourself from temporary threshold shift? Click to learn more.

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Temporary threshold shift is used by audiologists to describe a type of temporary hearing loss that occurs after loud noise exposure.

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Music is an art form that connects people from all walks of life. From the musicians who create the melodies to the crew and staff that bring the music to life, the music industry is an exciting and dynamic field. However, all this excitement can come at a cost to our hearing. In fact, professional musicians are at a higher risk of developing noise-induced hearing loss (NIHL) and tinnitus. But, what is NIHL? And what can we do to prevent it? In this blog post, we will explore the causes and impact of NIHL, offer tips for musicians, discuss gear for musicians, and emphasize the importance of protecting our hearing.

Causes and Impact of NIHL

Repeated exposure to loud sounds damages the sensory hair cells of the inner ear, which are responsible for converting sound waves into electrical signals that the brain can understand. Loud sound also disrupts how cells transmit information via synapses, leading to hidden hearing loss. NIHL from sudden loud sounds, such as gunfire or fireworks, can also occur. Nearly one in four adults exhibits signs of NIHL, and noisy leisure activities and personal listening devices contribute to a global public health emergency.

NIHL is permanent and preventable, making it essential to protect our ears and hearing. The impact of hearing loss can be significant and may include social isolation, communication difficulties, and depression. Moreover, untreated hearing loss can lead to cognitive decline and increase the risk of developing dementia. Therefore, it is crucial to take preventative measures and seek early treatment to prevent the onset of hearing loss.

Risk Factors for Temporary and Permanent Hearing Loss in Musicians

Continuous exposure to loud noise or music can lead to temporary threshold shifts, causing reduced hearing abilities, and sounds may appear muted. Animal models suggest that this may lead to "hidden hearing loss," which may cause permanent changes to the auditory system. Repeated temporary threshold shifts can cause permanent hearing loss, and making music can result in hearing loss.

Brass, woodwind, and percussion players are particularly susceptible to music-induced hearing loss due to high volume levels and high frequencies.

Other risk factors include higher musical range and frequencies, higher decibel or volume level, high reverberation, riskier placement in the ensemble, genetic makeup, lifestyle choices, high daily and weekly length of exposure, and higher stress levels.

Student musicians are also at risk, as they may experience poorer hearing thresholds.

And your enjoyment of the music could also have a factor: Two theories suggest that certain stress hormones released in the inner ear can increase susceptibility for hearing loss, while feedback loops between the brain and inner ear may decrease susceptibility if the music is enjoyed.

Tips for Musicians

Musicians can take several measures to protect their hearing.

Firstly, getting a hearing test annually can establish baseline hearing levels and detect changes early.

Secondly, knowing your range and using in-ear monitors and equalizers to adjust for any frequency bands you may be missing can help ensure that you can hear all aspects of the music without damaging your hearing.

Thirdly, using a musician's earplugs can protect your hearing without compromising your musical performance. Finally, see a hearing care provider immediately if you experience a sudden change or pain.

Protecting our hearing is crucial for musicians and everyone in the music industry. By taking preventative measures and using appropriate gear, we can continue to enjoy music while minimizing the risk of NIHL and tinnitus. If you are experiencing hearing difficulties or want to take a hearing test, visit your hearing professional for early treatment.

At our hearing practice, we offer a range of services, including hearing tests, custom-fit earplugs, and in-ear monitors. Our hearing professionals can help you find the right solution to protect your hearing while still enjoying your passion for music. Contact us today to schedule your appointment.

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Protecting Your Hearing in the Music Industry - Tips for Musicians | Resnick Audiology

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Music is an art form that connects people from all walks of life. From the musicians who create the melodies ...

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If you've ever come back from rehearsal or a loud gig and heard ringing, buzzing, whirring, or hissing sounds in your ears, you've experienced tinnitus. Fortunately, this is often temporary, lasting for a few hours, days, or weeks. However, if the sound never stops, it means you have chronic tinnitus. No need to worry, you're not alone, and there are ways to get relief.

Tinnitus is when you experience ringing, buzzing, hissing, or other noises in one or both of your ears. The noise you hear isn't caused by an external sound, and other people can't hear it. Tinnitus is quite common, affecting about 15-20% of the general population, but in some industries, such as the music industry, it's far more prevalent. Most studies reveal that about 40-50% of musicians experience some degree of tinnitus at some point in their lives. This increased prevalence is largely due to higher rates of noise-induced hearing loss amongst people in the music industry. Famous musicians, from Sting to Coldplay's Chris Martin, Phil Collins, Barbra Streisand, Eric Clapton, Ozzy Osbourne, and many more struggle with tinnitus and are trying to raise awareness.

While tinnitus is a constant struggle for everyone who lives with it, its emotional and psychological impacts are often greater for musicians for a variety of reasons. Firstly, tinnitus can negatively affect your perception of sound and music, which can feel threatening to your career. Also, musicians spend enormous amounts of time focusing on tiny differences in sound and frequency, making them especially aware of their tinnitus. In the music industry, tinnitus is often a result of frequent exposure to loud sounds without proper ear protection. Although there's currently no cure for tinnitus, it will not put a stop to your music career, as lasting relief is achievable.

How to relieve your tinnitus?

Use ear protection

The importance of ear protection cannot be stressed enough. While foam or silicone earplugs can limit you in hearing music clearly, musician's earplugs are a great option for most people. Rather than blocking out as much sound as possible, special filters are used to reduce the decibel volume level as evenly as possible. This means that you can still hear everything clearly, just at a lower volume. You can buy a pair off-the-shelf or have them custom molded for you by an audiologist.

Use tinnitus maskers

Tinnitus maskers are electronic hearing devices that generate and emit broad-band or narrow-band noise at low levels, designed to drown out the auditory sensations of tinnitus. They produce white or pink noise to add an artificial sound to your environment. Many people find that by using a masker, they are better able to focus, relax, and fall asleep, therefore, using a masker at night may help you get a better night's sleep.

Relax and give your ears a break

As we're constantly exposed to noises and sounds, our ears sometimes need a break -especially if you're a musician. Relaxation is important in two ways. Firstly, it helps ward off tinnitus. For many people, stress is a trigger for their tinnitus, so learning some relaxation techniques can help prevent it before it begins. Secondly, when you do experience tinnitus, calming your body and mind is a crucial tool to help keep it from affecting your entire life. In some cases, all you need to do is briefly refocus your attention on something else to find relief from your tinnitus, which can often be achieved by regularly practicing meditation techniques, exercising, or doing yoga.

Try Tinnitus Retraining Therapy

Tinnitus Retraining Therapy (TRT) is a process of learning to cope with your tinnitus on a conscious and subconscious level. This technique has helped a lot of people to get stress reductions and a better quality of life. Tinnitus Retraining Therapy requires close co-operation with hearing professionals. The therapy is employed at the perceived source of the tinnitus and aims to teach the brain to ignore it.

Wear hearing aids

Many musicians and music aficionados experience both hearing loss and tinnitus. While older versions of hearing aids weren't ideal for listening to music as they often compressed the dynamic range to unpleasant levels, more modern hearing aids are highly customizable and can also include customized tinnitus masking programs. Properly fit amplification can reduce tinnitus by 60%. A professional audiologist can help you choose a hearing aid that best suits your needs.

Living with tinnitus can be annoying and overwhelming, and it can affect your career as a musician. However, with perseverance and support from a highly trained Doctor of Audiology, the perceived burden of tinnitus can be significantly reduced.

Take action today to control your tinnitus and lessen its impact on your life. Discover the currently available treatments and find other resources to help you manage your tinnitus. Book an appointment for a simple evaluation today.

Dr. Marie Vetter-Toalson Au.D.

Dr. Marie Vetter-Toalson Au.D. is the owner of Chicago Hearing Services and a Doctor of Audiology dedicated to empowering her patients and the public with greater knowledge and education around hearing health.

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Are You a Musician Affected by Tinnitus? Here's How to Get Some Relief - Chicago Hearing Services

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Musicians have a great chance of experiencing some form of tinnitus. Here's how to get some relief from the constant ringing in your ears.

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Imagine if every moment is filled with a high-pitched buzz or ring that you can't turn off.

More than 25 million adults in the U.S., have a condition called tinnitus, according to the American Tinnitus Association. It can be stressful, even panic-inducing and difficult to manage. Dozens of factors can contribute to the onset of tinnitus, including hearing loss, exposure to loud noise or a viral illness.

There's no cure, but there are a range of strategies to reduce the symptoms and make it less bothersome, including hearing aids, mindfulness therapy, and one newer option - a device approved by the FDA to treat tinnitus using electrical stimulation of the tongue.

The device has helped Victoria Banks, a singer and songwriter in Nashville, Tenn., who developed tinnitus about three years ago.

"The noise in my head felt like a bunch of cicadas," Banks says. "It was terrifying." The buzz made it difficult for her to sing and listen to music. "It can be absolutely debilitating," she says.

Banks tried taking dietary supplements, but those didn't help. She also stepped up exercise, but that didn't bring relief either. Then she read about a device called Lenire, which was approved by the FDA in March 2023. It includes a plastic mouthpiece with stainless steel electrodes that electrically stimulate the tongue. It is the first device of its kind to be approved for tinnitus.

"This had worked for other people, and I thought I'm willing to try anything at this point," Banks recalls.

She sought out audiologist Brian Fligor, who treats severe cases of tinnitus in the Boston area. Fligor was impressed by the results of a clinical trial that found 84% of participants who tried Lenire experienced a significant reduction in symptoms. He became one of the first providers in the U.S. to use the device with his patients. Fligor also served on an advisory panel assembled by the company who developed it.

"A good candidate for this device is somebody who's had tinnitus for at least three months," Fligor says, emphasizing that people should be evaluated first to make sure there's not an underlying medical issue.

Tinnitus often accompanies hearing loss, but Victoria Banks' hearing was fine and she had no other medical issue, so she was a good candidate.

Banks used the device for an hour each day for 12 weeks. During the hour-long sessions, the electrical stimulation "tickles" the tongue, she says. In addition, the device includes a set of headphones that play a series of tones and ocean-wave sounds.

The device works, in part, by shifting the brain's attention away from the buzz. We're wired to focus on important information coming into our brains, Fligor says. Think of it as a spotlight at a show pointed at the most important thing on the stage. "When you have tinnitus and you're frustrated or angry or scared by it, that spotlight gets really strong and focused on the tinnitus," Fligor says.

"It's the combination of what you're feeling through the nerves in your tongue and what you're hearing through your ears happening in synchrony that causes the spotlight in your brain to not be so stuck on the tinnitus," Fligor explains.

"It unsticks your spotlight" and helps desensitize people to the perceived noise that their tinnitus creates, he says.

Banks says the ringing in her ears did not completely disappear, but now it's barely noticeable on most days.

"It's kind of like if I lived near a waterfall and the waterfall was constantly going," she says. Over time, the waterfall sound fades out of consciousness.

"My brain is now focusing on other things," and the buzz is no longer so distracting. She's back to listening to music, writing music, and performing music." I'm doing all of those things," she says.

When the buzz comes back into focus, Banks says a refresher session with the device helps.

A clinical trial found that 84% of people who tried Lenire, saw significant improvements in their condition. To measure changes, the participants took a questionnaire that asked them to rate how much tinnitus was impacting their sleep, sense of control, feelings of well-being and quality of life. After 12 weeks of using the device, participants improved by an average of 14 points.

"Where this device fits into the big picture, is that it's not a cure-all, but it's quickly become my go-to," for people who do not respond to other ways of managing tinnitus, Fligor says.

One down-side is the cost. Banks paid about $4,000 for the Lenire device, and insurance doesn't cover it. She put the expense on her credit card and paid it off gradually.

Fligor hopes that as the evidence of its effectiveness accumulates, insurers will begin to cover it. Despite the cost, more than 80% of participants in the clinical trial said they would recommend the device to a friend with tinnitus.

But, it's unclear how long the benefits last. Clinical trials have only evaluated Lenire over a 1-year period. "How durable are the effects? We don't really know yet," says audiologist Marc Fagelson, the scientific advisory committee chair of the American Tinnitus Association. He says research is promising but there's still more to learn.

Fagelson says the first step he takes with his patients is an evaluation for hearing loss. Research shows that hearing aids can be an effective treatment for tinnitus among people who have both tinnitus and hearing loss, which is much more common among older adults. An estimated one-third of adults 65 years of age and older who have hearing loss, also have tinnitus.

"We do see a lot of patients, even with very mild loss, who benefit from hearing aids," Fagelson says, but in his experience it's about 50-50 in terms of improving tinnitus. Often, he says people with tinnitus need to explore options beyond hearing aids.

Bruce Freeman, a scientist at the University of Pittsburgh Medical Center, says he's benefitted from both hearing aids and Lenire. He was fitted for the device in Ireland where it was developed, before it was available in the U.S.

Freeman agrees that the ringing never truly disappears, but the device has helped him manage the condition. He describes the sounds that play through the device headphones as very calming and "almost hypnotic" and combined with the tongue vibration, it's helped desensitize him to the ring.

Freeman - who is a research scientist - says he's impressed with the results of research, including a study published in Nature, Scientific Reports that points to significant improvements among clinical trial participants with tinnitus.

Freeman experienced a return of his symptoms when he stopped using the device. "Without it the tinnitus got worse," he says. Then, when he resumed use, it improved.

Freeman believes his long-term exposure to noisy instruments in his research laboratory may have played a role in his condition, and also a neck injury from a bicycle accident that fractured his vertebra. "All of those things converged," he says.

Freeman has developed several habits that help keep the high-pitched ring out of his consciousness and maintain good health. "One thing that does wonders is swimming," he says, pointing to the swooshing sound of water in his ears. "That's a form of mindfulness," he explains.

When it comes to the ring of tinnitus, "it comes and goes," Freeman says. For now, it has subsided into the background, he told me with a sense of relief. "The last two years have been great," he says - a combination of the device, hearing aids and the mindfulness that comes from a swim.
This story was edited by Jane Greenhalgh

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Got tinnitus? A device that tickles the tongue helps this musician find relief

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More than 25 million adults in the U.S. have tinnitus, a condition that causes ringing or buzzing in the ears. An FDA approved device that stimulates the tongue, helped 84% of people who tried it.

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Each part of our ears have their own role in allowing us to hear. They work with our brain to process the sounds around us, and translate that into noises and sounds that we can recognize. It is a process that never stops. Even when you are fast asleep, your ears and brain are processing the sounds around you.

Normally, our ears will work together to allow us to hear. What that is, is that despite having two ears, they will transmit sounds to our brain as a single entity. It's not unusual for one ear to hear things slightly differently than the other ear. This can happen as a result of the environment we're in, the placement of the suns, and more. Incredibly, our brains can interpret the sounds as originating from one single source.

Confused yet? Let's break it down further! Think of how your eyes work. Take a moment and focus on a point in front of you. Now close one eye. Can you still see what's in front of you? Great! Now close your other eye. Has what you're able to see changed?

Although our eyes are processing visual information individually, what we're actually seeing is one visual field. (Side note - if you are seeing double, please contact your primary healthcare practitioner).

Our ears work in a similar fashion. However, for some people, sounds are not experienced in the same way. They experience something known as diplacusis.

What is Diplacusis?

Diplacusis is sometimes referred to as "double hearing." It is a type of hearing loss that results in a two-sound experience.

A 2016 study defined diplacusis as "perceptual anomaly whereby the same sound is perceived as having a different pitch depending on whether it is presented in the left or the right ear."

With diplacusis, one ear hears sounds differently to the other ear. This results in a two-sound experience. For people with diplacusis, it can be troubling.

What Causes Diplacusis?

Diplacusis has a number of causes. Musicians are commonly more aware of having diplacusis. This could be down to the fact that they are often more sensitive to changes in pitch and tone.

Diplacusis can be caused by damage to the delicate hair cells in our inner ears. Damage can be caused by:

In some cases, diplacusis can be caused by an obstruction in the ear. This could be from an ear infection, excess earwax, blocked sinuses or a tumor.

How is Diplacusis Treated?

The treatment for diplacusis depends on what has caused it. If an obstruction in your ear is causing diplacusis, removing the obstruction should resolve it. If the diplacusis is the result of hearing loss, hearing aids may be used to help the condition.

The first step to treating diplacusis is speaking to a specialist. The hearing healthcare specialists at Anderson Audiology will be glad to offer you a hearing assessment. Call the team today on 702-997-2964. Alternatively, click here to request an appointment online.

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What is Diplacusis? | Diplacusis Explained | Anderson Audiology

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What is diplacusis? How does the sensation of double hearing impact your hearing? We discuss further in our blog. Click to read more.

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"In physics, sound is a vibration through a medium, in our case 'air', that causes what is known as an acoustic wave. In humans, sound involves both the reception of the acoustic waves and the perception.Perception is different for everyone. In fact, our perception of sound is like an individual fingerprint. In some cases, there are confusing signals and diplacusis is one example." - Drew Sutton, MD, Board-Certified Otolaryngologist

There are several different hearing conditions that people are diagnosed with. Sensorineural hearing loss, conductive hearing loss, tinnitus, and auditory processing disorders represent the main groups of hearing disorders .

While these conditions are fairly common, it isn't to say that there are no unique presentations of each. One unique presentation of hearing loss is diplacusis. Diplacusis is a condition that is more commonly known as double hearing and results in people perceiving multiple sounds from one stimulus.

Below is a closer look at diplacusis, its connection to hearing loss, and what you can do to help.

What Is Diplacusis?

Diplacusis is a hearing disorder that is characterized by having doubled hearing. Essentially a single sound is perceived as two separate sounds rather than one. You can think of diplacusis as the doubled vision of your ability to hear.

The brain is typically quite good at meshing multiple sensory inputs and allowing you to perceive them as one, but in some cases, this doesn't occur. Many cases of diplacusis have an underlying hearing loss, but they still vary from person to person.

Diplacusis can present itself in either one ear or both ears. Diplacusis, where two sounds are heard in one ear, is referred to as monaural. In contrast, diplacusis binaural refers to diplacusis, where a sound is heard differently from one ear to the other. Diplacusis binaural is the most common form of doubled hearing.

Below is a closer look at the different types of diplacusis and what is thought to cause them.

Diplacusis Dysharmonica

Diplacusis Dysharmonica is a subtype of diplacusis that focuses mainly on double hearing due to a difference in perceived pitch. Diplacusis dysharmonica is one of the most common forms of diplacusis and can be caused by several different things, including an ear infection, loud noise exposure, or even a head injury.

Diplacusis dysharmonica is a common result of a one-sided ear infection. While most people go on about their day acknowledging their one ear is slightly muted or not pitch-perfect, professionals such as musicians and those that require high auditory acuity could face more difficulty performing tasks to the best of their ability.

Diplacusis Echoica

Diplacusis echoica is caused by a delay in the perception of sound. Essentially when sound enters the ears, one ear hears and interprets it quicker than the other ear. This results in the brain being unable to interpret the sounds as one sound, resulting in an echo effect.

Diplacusis echoica can be caused by several ear problems, but most likely are caused by outer and middle ear issues. The process of conduction is where sound energy is transferred and conducted to the sensorineural organ known as the cochlea.

When sounds have an off timing but the same pitch, this points to something slowing down the process of conduction rather than an issue actually slowly sensing the sound. Impacted earwax, an ear infection, or other blockages can cause sound to travel less efficiently and may cause an echo-like effect.

Mixed Diplacusis

Mixed diplacusis occurs when both forms of hearing discrepancy occur simultaneously. This could sound as if there is an echo with a slightly different pitch. Mixed Diplacusis is not common and is not well understood. Many people will diagnose mixed diplacusis as either echoica or diplacusis, but it isn't a big deal because causes and treatments are so similar.

Can Diplacusis Be Treated?

Diplacusis has many different presentations and potential causes. Diplacusis is best thought of as a symptom, and to get rid of it, the underlying health issue needs to be addressed. In the case of diplacusis, this means that the underlying asymmetrical hearing loss needs to be properly taken care of.

There are two main forms of hearing loss: conductive hearing loss and sensorineural hearing loss. Both can cause impairment in auditory acuity, but they differ in their physiology and how they are treated. Below is a closer look at both forms of hearing loss and what can be done about them.

Sensorineural

Sensorineural hearing loss is a form of hearing loss that has to do with the ability of the ears to convert physical sound into a neurological impulse. Sensorineural hearing loss is typically caused by a dysfunction within the cochlea or auditory nerve.

The most common sensorineural hearing loss involves the damage of the cochlea's internal hairs, which are responsible for detecting noise and conveying it as a certain pitch and loudness. When these hairs become damaged, it reduces the body's ability to perceive that specific tone.

Sensorineural hearing loss tends to be long-term, and treatments mainly revolve around trying to regain a quality of life that allows you to hear the world around you a little better.

One of the most common medical interventions utilized for sensorineural hearing loss is a hearing aid . Hearing aids work by increasing the intensity of incoming sound waves and relaying that amplifies the sound to the ear.

Conductive

Conductive hearing loss has to do with the outer and middle ear. Many forms of conductive hearing loss can be treated and effectively reversed, such as ear infection, earwax impaction, and ear obstructions. Obstructions and impacted earwax can simply be removed, and normal hearing typically is regained.

Potentially lasting forms of conductive hearing loss can include a perforated eardrum or malformation of the middle and outer ear when born. A perforated eardrum carries a risk of more lasting hearing loss. At the same time, a malformation can reduce the ear's ability to conduct sounds to the cochlea properly and result in a reduced ability to perceive sounds.

More severe forms of conductive hearing loss can respond well to surgery, but hearing aids may also be utilized to help increase sound stimuli to a point where they can properly activate the cochlea.

Does Diplacusis Effect Everyone the Same?

One interesting finding is that diplacusis seems to be more noticeable to some people than others. Those frequently dealing with the precision of sound seem to be more sensitive to the slight differences in noise perception and are more likely to notice when something is awry.

In fact, a recent found that among professional musicians , those who specialized in classical music appeared to have a higher prevalence of diplacusis than other musicians. The attention to pitch and accuracy in classical music could explain why those musicians are more likely to notice and seek care for differing auditory cues.

Treatments and Prevention

While several variables can go into the formation of diplacusis, there are also many treatments and preventative measures that may help find you relief from the distress of hearing double or stop it from occurring in the first place.

Below is a closer look at some specific treatments and preventative methods that may help mitigate diplacusis or help you better deal with it.

Prevention of Diplacusis

Prevention of diplacusis mainly revolves around protecting your hearing. Your sense of hearing is robust, but exposure to certain medications, loud noises, or other outside environmental factors can contribute to hearing loss, leading to diplacusis.

As stated previously, musicians are at a higher risk of developing diplacusis and other hearing problems like tinnitus. Since musicians rely heavily on sound for their careers, diplacusis could severely affect their livelihood. To avoid hearing loss, musicians can utilize musician earplugs which are specialized earplugs that reduce the intensity of all frequencies of sound evenly to allow musicians to ensure they are playing accurately.

Treatment for Diplacusis

Both types of hearing loss can cause Diplacusis. Because of this, it is important to seek the assistance of an audiologist to understand the underlying cause of your specific diplacusis and go about the right treatment option for you. After a hearing test, an audiologist will be able to determine if you may benefit from a hearing aid .

For conductive hearing loss, an audiologist may resolve it if it is due to obstruction or an ear infection. In the case of sensorineural or severe conductive hearing loss, an audiologist can work with you and find the best option that fits you and your needs.

Conclusion

In summary, diplacusis is a condition that is characterized by doubled sound. This can be in the form of an echo or can be that you perceive the same sound like two separate pitches. Regardless of the type of diplacusis, treating the underlying issue leading to a skewed auditory perception is essential. Treating the underlying hearing loss can allow those with diplacusis to have a greater sense of normalcy when it comes to hearing.
Sources: Types of Hearing Disorders | John Hopkins All Children's Ruptured Eardrum (Acutely Perforated Tympanic Membrane) | Cleveland Clinic Hearing Loss, Tinnitus, Hyperacusis, and Diplacusis in Professional Musicians: A Systematic Review | NCBI

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Diplacusis: What It Is and Treatment Options

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"In physics, sound is a vibration through a medium, in our case 'air', that causes what is known as an acoustic wave. In humans, sound involves both the reception of the acoustic waves and the perception.Perception is different for everyone. In fact, our perception of sound is like an individual fingerprint.

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For most people, our ears work in tandem, delivering sounds as one "unit" to our brain. Even if the ears perceive slightly different pitches, our brain still can interpret it as the same source of sound. This is similar to how our eyes work-we see one visual field, instead of two.

Yet, for some people, the ears don't interpret noises as a single sound, and they instead experience a condition known as diplacusis.

Diplacusis, or "double hearing," is a
unique type of hearing condition.

What is double hearing?

Diplacusis is a form of hearing loss that causes our ears to hear sounds so differently it creates a disturbing two-sound experience.

In more medical terms, diplacusis is the "perceptual anomaly whereby the same sound is perceived as having a different pitch depending on whether it is presented in the left or the right ear," according to a 2016 study.

As you can imagine, this sensation, often called "double hearing," can be disturbing and troubling to those who experience it. It can affect anyone, but is most common among people who have hearing loss in one ear, or are starting to lose their hearing.

Types of double hearing

Double hearing can occur in both ears or it can affect just one ear, which is known as diplacusis monauralis. More commonly, though people notice a problem with both ears, known as diplacusis binauralis.

When you hear the same sound differently in each ear, it's usually related to pitch or timing. One ear may hear a sound at a different pitch and speed than the other ear.

Two main types of diplacusis

There are two subtypes of diplacusisbinauralis:

If you don't have problems with timing, and it's mostly different pitches you struggle with, it's a subtype known as diplacusis dysharmonica. This is the most common type of diplacusis.

When ears hear sound at different speeds, it's a subtype known as diplacusis echoica. Because your ears are hearing things at different times, you may hear the same sound repeated as an echo.

What causes diplacusis?

Those who develop diplacusis usually notice it suddenly after exposure to loud noise, a bout with an ear infection or trauma to the head. As you can imagine, musicians notice this condition more readily than non-musicians as their ears are more sensitive to pitch and tone.

In addition to double hearing, people with diplacusis may also develop tinnitus, a ringing or buzzing noise, in the affected ear. Some people with Meniere's disease also may struggle with double hearing.

Diplacusis can be caused by wear and tear to the inner ear's delicate hair cells as the result of:

Diplacusis also can be caused by an obstruction in the ear because of:

Can you treat double hearing?

If your diplacusis is caused by an obstruction, your hearing may return to normal once the obstruction is removed or the infection subsides. Diplacusis caused by sensorineural hearing loss is permanent, but it may be treated with hearing aids or cochlear implants. Auditory rehabilitation and/or auditory training can also help your brain adapt.

How to get help for diplacusis

If you notice symptoms of diplacusis or suspect you are losing your hearing, promptly make an appointment to see a hearing healthcare professional.

They can provide easy, painless testing and determine the right course of action. Visit our directory of consumer-reviewed hearing clinics to find a hearing aid specialist or audiologist near you.

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Diplacusis is a form of hearing loss that causes a person's ears to hear sounds so differently they create a disturbing two-sound experience.

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We hear sounds at different pitches in each ear, but they're usually able to work together to send a single signal to our brains. But some people experience a disconcerting sensation in which their ears don't seem to align with each other. Diplacusis is a form of hearing loss that causes you to hear a noise as two different sounds.

What Causes Diplacusis?

Also known as double hearing, diplacusis is often caused by damage to the hair cells in your inner ear that send signals to your auditory nerve. Exposure to loud noise, head trauma, age-related hearing loss and ototoxic medications can permanently harm hair cells.

Obstructions in the ear canal also cause double hearing. Excess earwax, tumors, respiratory or ear infections and inflammation cause physical changes in your ear canal that affect your hearing ability.

Types of Diplacusis

There are two kinds of diplacusis:

Diplacusis monauralis: Double hearing in one ear

Diplacusis binauralis: Double hearing in both ears

Having diplacusis in both ears is more common, and there are two subtypes.

Diplacusis dysharmonica: Sounds are heard at different pitches in both ears.

Diplacusis echoica: A sound's timing varies between ears, creating an echo.

Treatment

How you treat your diplacusis depends on the cause. An ear, nose and throat (ENT) doctor will safely remove excess earwax or other blockages in your ears. Surgery may be necessary to remove tumors or abnormal bone growths.

Diplacusis caused by hair cell damage often requires hearing aids or cochlear implants. Hearing aids improve your ability to interpret sounds, which ease the perceived difference in pitch or timing. Cochlear implants bypass the inner ear and send sound stimuli directly to your auditory nerve to improve hearing loss.

You may also seek aural rehabilitation (AR) to treat diplacusis. AR is a comprehensive approach that teaches your brain to adapt to hearing loss. You'll learn behavioral strategies that will help you cope with the effects of diplacusis.

Come to Audiology & Hearing Aid Solutions to find the right hearing loss treatment for you. Call 888.473.8702 or contact us online to schedule an appointment.

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Diplacusis: What is Double Hearing? - Audiology & Hearing Aid Solutions

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Diplacusis, or double hearing, is a type of hearing loss in which a single sound is perceived as two sounds. Learn about the causes and treatment options.

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Music Making and Hearing Loss: Information for Musicians on Preventing or Managing Hearing Loss

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See also: Articles on Music, Hearing Loss, and Hearing Devices

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Diplacusis, a lesser-known auditory phenomenon, refers to a condition where a person perceives the same sound at different pitches in each ear. This dissonance can lead to difficulties in understanding speech, music, and other auditory stimuli. In this article, we will explore the types, causes, and treatment options for diplacusis.

Types of Diplacusis

Interaural Diplacusis: This type occurs when a person perceives sounds at different pitches in each ear, creating a noticeable discrepancy in the way they hear stereo or binaural sounds.

Intrachannel Diplacusis: In this type, the individual experiences a pitch discrepancy within a single ear, making it challenging to discern between similar sounds.

Diploacusis Dysharmonica also known as "double hearing": This condition involves hearing the same sound at two different pitches, but the pitches are harmonically related. In simpler terms, it's as if one is hearing an echo of the original sound, creating a harmonic discord.

Causes of Diplacusis

Diplacusis can be caused by various factors, including:

Age-Related Hearing Loss: As individuals age, their hearing abilities may decline, leading to diplacusis.

Noise-Induced Hearing Loss: Prolonged exposure to loud noises can damage the delicate structures of the inner ear, causing diplacusis.

Ear Infections: Infections affecting the ear can disrupt the normal functioning of the auditory system, leading to diplacusis.

Ototoxic Medications: Certain medications have the potential to cause damage to the auditory system, resulting in diplacusis.

Conductive Hearing Loss: Damage to the middle or outer ear can contribute to diplacusis, especially when it disrupts the transmission of sound waves to the inner ear.

Duration and Resolution of Diplacusis:

Diplacusis, like many auditory conditions, can vary widely in terms of duration and resolution. Several factors influence the outcome, including the underlying cause, the individual's overall health, and the timeliness of intervention. Here are key considerations:

1. Temporary Diplacusis: In some cases, diplacusis may be a temporary condition. For instance, if it is caused by an ear infection or exposure to loud noises, the symptoms may subside once the underlying issue is addressed.

2. Permanent Diplacusis: On the other hand, diplacusis can be permanent, especially if it results from irreversible damage to the auditory system, such as age-related hearing loss or certain neurological conditions.

Diplacusis Treatment

Management with Hearing Aids:

Amplification: Hearing aids are a cornerstone in managing diplacusis. By amplifying sounds and providing customized settings, hearing aids help individuals perceive a more balanced and harmonious auditory experience.

Directional Microphones: Modern hearing aids often come equipped with directional microphones, allowing users to focus on specific sounds while minimizing background noise. This feature can be particularly helpful for those with diplacusis in crowded or noisy environments.

Customized Programming:

Frequency Shaping: Audiologists can tailor the frequency response of hearing aids to address the specific pitch discrepancies experienced by individuals with diplacusis. This customization ensures that the amplification is finely tuned to their unique needs.

Real-Time Adjustments: Some advanced hearing aids allow real-time adjustments, empowering users to adapt the settings based on immediate preferences and the nature of the sounds they encounter.

Audiological Interventions:

Regular Monitoring: Audiologists play a crucial role in the ongoing management of diplacusis. Regular audiometric assessments help monitor changes in hearing abilities and allow for adjustments to hearing aid settings as needed.

Counseling: Audiologists can provide counseling to individuals with diplacusis, helping them cope with the challenges and providing guidance on communication strategies and auditory training.

Addressing Underlying Causes:

Ear Infections: If the cause of diplacusis is an ear infection, prompt medical intervention with antibiotics can help resolve the infection, leading to an improvement in symptoms.

Noise-Induced Hearing Loss: Prevention is crucial in cases of noise-induced diplacusis. Individuals should use hearing protection in loud environments to prevent further damage.

Medical Consultation:

Neurological Conditions: If diplacusis is associated with neurological conditions, such as traumatic auditory neuropathy, individuals may benefit from consultation with neurologists or other specialists for comprehensive management.

Hearing Rehabilitation:

Auditory Training: Hearing rehabilitation programs, including auditory training exercises, can be beneficial in improving the brain's ability to interpret and process sounds accurately.

Patient Education:

Understanding and Coping Strategies: Educating individuals with diplacusis about their condition and providing coping strategies can enhance their ability to adapt to the challenges they may face in various listening environments.

If you or a loved one is experiencing symptoms of diplacusis, seeking professional help is essential. At hear.com, we connect individuals with the top 2% of the best audiologists in the United States. Our team of hearing experts is dedicated to guiding you towards better hearing. Explore our range of top-notch devices, insurance options, and flexible financing plans. No matter your budget, hear.com is here to help you regain a fulfilling auditory experience. Contact us today to embark on your journey to better hearing.

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Diplacusis - Understanding the causes and treatments of double hearing | hear.com

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Learn about its types, causes, and in-depth treatments, with a spotlight on the pivotal role of advanced hearing aids.

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Dr. Amy Sarow is a practicing clinical audiologist and serves as Audiology Lead for Soundly. Her expertise and experience span topics including tinnitus, cochlear implants, hearing aid technology, and hearing testing. She holds a doctoral degree in audiology from the University of Iowa. During her residency at Mayo Clinic, Dr. Sarow was inspired by the three-tiered, patient-centered approach, incorporating clinical work, teaching and research.

Soundly conducts in-depth research to guide prospective hearing aid wearers. Our work is funded through reader support. When you buy through our links, we may earn a commission.

Music makes life more enjoyable. Whether it's a live concert, in the car, or as background noise, music is a way to lift your mood, relax, meditate, and practice self-care.

As an audiologist, I have met many patients who are either musicians or enjoy music and experience hearing loss. Patients commonly express their love for music and its essential role-they want to continue enjoying music, but hearing loss poses a challenge.

This is where hearing aids come in. After all, these devices can significantly affect the quality of life of people with hearing loss. Keep scrolling and I'll provide tips to optimize your music experience and review the best hearing aids for musicians.

In this article, get the intel on the music listening experience, plus a close look at hearing aids and their ability to process sound and music.

How Hearing Aids Work

Regarding sound processing, hearing aids amplify speech sounds and other environmental sounds.

How hearing aids work:

1. The sounds are picked up by the hearing aid microphones, which send electronic signals to the processor.

2. The processor appropriately enhances the signals for hearing loss and sends them to the speakers, where they are delivered to the ear canal.

3. The key to hearing aids' effectiveness is the sound processing algorithms that are built into the device.

How Hearing Aids Process Speech

The primary purpose of a hearing aid is to improve speech audibility.

What the hearing aid does with the sounds it picks up depends on two factors:

1. The type of sound

2. The volume of the sound

More specifically, the hearing aid distinguishes noise and speech, reducing noise while enhancing speech.

The goal of the hearing aid is to amplify soft and normal conversational speech adequately while providing minimal amplification to loud speech. Based on your audiogram, the hearing aid applies frequency-specific volume to provide the volume that you need.

How Hearing Aids Process Music

Essentially, music is approached the same as other sounds by hearing aid processing.

The hearing aid's primary goal is to amplify speech; however, sound processing to optimize speech may conflict with optimal settings for music listening.

For example, the hearing aid behaves differently with soft than loud speech sounds (e.g., soft sounds are amplified more than loud sounds).

Music contains a wide range of volumes, a wider range of frequencies, variety of sounds and may or may not include speech or lyrics. Sounds that are typically "noise" in another setting might be a desired part of the music.

For example, the hearing aid often reduces a sudden, loud impulse noise (i.e., door slam), but that sudden volume change may be a desired part of the music you're listening to.

Therefore, enjoying live music requires appropriate settings to preserve the fidelity of the sound. So what is an audiophile to do? Fortunately, there are plenty of options for music lovers and high fidelity sound enthusiasts.

Music Programs and Fine-Tuning

Music programs and fine-tuning can significantly improve the quality of music through hearing aids.

Are you a musician? Fine-tuning for your instrument can help improve sound quality.

Many hearing aids have music programs specifically designed to adjust the device to allow sound to come through with less distortion to the music's sound quality.

For example, a music program disengages noise reduction programs, directional microphones, and frequency-lowering features. As music incorporates sounds that hearing aids may classify as "noise," disengaging features, such as noise reduction, will help preserve the fidelity of the music.

To note, hearing aids are often programmed to enhance higher-frequency speech sounds. So that means depending on your instrument, the target frequency region may differ from the hearing aid's default settings.

What The Best Products Have In Common

The best hearing aids for music share certain features and they can handle a broad range of frequencies and sound levels.

A wide dynamic range allows for a more realistic sound output. Jumping on this point, the processing speed of the hearing aid and appropriate coupling to the ear (e.g., dome tips or earmolds) are also important.

Which means that these devices have music programs that can fine-tune the hearing aid for music listening and additional customization features.

What style is best?

The most popular style of hearing aid is the RIC style. This style of hearing aid is first to market when it comes to the newest hearing aid technology.

Best Hearing Aids to Enjoy Live Music

Let's look at some of the best hearing aids for live music in 2024.

Widex is a top hearing aid choice among musicians. The Widex Moment Sheer achieves its natural sound quality through its Zero Delay and Pure Sound technology. In addition, it is pared down, which speeds up the processing of the hearing aid to deliver a less distorted and smoother, more authentic sound quality.

Widex hearing aids are popular among musicians, those with tinnitus, and anyone who appreciate natural sound quality. The Widex SmartRIC integrates the performance of the Widex Moment chip, known for its ability to produce incredibly natural sound, with a discreet and stylish design that appeals to today's fashion-conscious users. While other brands offer a similar slim design, such as Phonak and Signia, Widex has a slight advantage in design. The stylish, L-design is the shortest of its kind on the market, according to Widex.

The Widex SmartRIC distinguishes itself with a unique microphone placement that differs from traditional Receiver-in-Canal (RIC) devices, offering wearers more effective support in background noise. This thoughtful design means that the directional microphones are more in the horizontal plane, and better able to pick up on your conversation partner thanks to the L-shaped 20 degree curve at the top of the hearing aid.
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Widex Moment Sheer is also often considered the leader among receiver-in-canal hearing aids for tinnitus. The brand's SoundRelax program streams fractal sounds into your hearing aids to reduce buzzing and ringing.

‍Overall notes: Widex SmartRIC goes toe-to-toe with prescription leaders in the category. The perfect candidate for Widex wants care through a local hearing professional, natural external music quality, tinnitus masking and natural sound. ‍

Price: The national average price for Widex hearing aids is around $7,200 per pair. We've found some national providers with prices as low as $3,198/pair. Click here for more on prices.

‍Features: Rechargeable, Bluetooth, Behind The Ear Style

Focused on sound quality, delivering clear sound with the lowest delay in the industry.
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Includes industry leading tinnitus features.
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Widex Moment Sheer hearing aids come with rechargeable batteries and Bluetooth streaming capabilities.

Only sold through local clinics.

Remote adjustments require an additional accessory.
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Widex offers a premium product at a premium price that may be out of budget for some.

With the natural placement of the M&RIE receiver in the ear canal, GN ReSound offers an excellent option for those who appreciate music. In addition, their technology provides a wide dynamic range and many customization options for your hearing healthcare professional to adjust and tweak your settings. The GN ReSound app is also user-friendly and allows you to change settings.

ReSound unveiled NEXIA in October 2023. If you've read our past reviews, you might know that ReSound is a regular innovator in the hearing category.

The brand was the first to partner with Apple for Bluetooth streaming back in 2013. In 2022, ReSound released an impressive algorithm update with improved beam-forming tech that boasted a 150% improvement in background noise.

ReSound is also the only manufacturer that places a microphone inside the ear to use the natural shape of the pinna to sort out background noise. Those popular features will remain with ReSound NEXIA with some exciting additions.

The first is a visible reduction in size. Impressively, NEXIA maintains a 30-hour battery life while cutting 25% off the overall size-big thumbs up from us.

The second big announcement is that NEXIA has an updated Bluetooth capability that allows Auracast streaming in public places. If you aren't familiar with Auracast, check out our guide to the topic here.

ReSound is among the best in the industry at separating speech and noise in a background situation. Our lead audiologist recently put NEXIA in a test box and found the hearing aids could consistently provide up to 8-10 dB of background noise reduction.

ReSound NEXIA is on most of our shortlists for the best premium, receiver-in-canal hearing aids on the market.

‍Overall notes: ReSound NEXIA is an all around excellent product with an innovative approach to microphones and one of the smallest form factors in the industry. ReSound NEXIA has strong Bluetooth connection that now boasts Auracast compatibility. ‍

Price: The national average price for ReSound NEXIA is $7,410 per pair. In our price research we've found some national providers with prices as low as $3,198/pair. Click here for more on prices. ‍

Features: Rechargeable, Bluetooth with hands-free calling for iPhone and iPad, Small behind the ear style‍

What audiologists say: "ReSound offers elegant design and good (if not elite) sound quality. These hearing aids are high quality and reliable." - Garrett Thompson, AuD

Great for background noise management

Auracast compatible

Small form factor and an optional 3rd microphone in the ear

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More expensive compared to direct to consumer and OTC options

NEXIA's in-ear M&RIE microphone is a bit larger and can be uncomfortable for some

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Oticon's mild, mellow sound quality is another favorite among musicians. A higher technology level also allows finer frequency band adjustments so that settings can be adjusted and fine-tuned to meet your music needs and preferences.

Oticon is the second most popular hearing aid brand (after Phonak). The brand has built a fanbase around its "open" sound philosophy by using advanced methods to support natural sound. Their newest device, the Oticon Intent, goes a step further, offering open sound quality customized to the user's intent.

The newly designed devices continuously adapt based on four built-in sensors. Together, the brand calls this MoreSound Intelligence 3.0.

Conversation sensors: Search your soundscape for speech sounds.

Head sensors: Track your movement to gather information about where you are focused.

Body sensors: Track your movement through the room and open the field of sound when you walk

Acoustic sensors: Analyze background noises, echo and room dimensions

None of these sensors are brand new to the world of hearing aids, but Oticon claims to be the first brand to use all four together in one connected system. Add in Oticon's already impressive Deep Neural Network and you get what might be the smartest hearing aid in the industry.

‍Overall notes: Oticon Real is an undisputed leader among top-tier hearing aids. If you are attracted to the idea of hearing more of the sounds around you vs. solely focusing on voices, this product is a great choice.‍

Price: The national average price for Oticon Intent is $6,330 per pair. In my price research I found some national providers with prices as low as $2,898/pair. Click here for more on prices. ‍

Features: Rechargeable, Bluetooth LE Audio, Behind The Ear Style‍

What audiologists say: "Oticon is among the best. If you are looking for all-around, top-of-the-line technology, this is an excellent choice." - Ramsay Poindexter, AuD

Open sound quality that many users prefer

Bluetooth streaming from Android and Apple devices

Offered with both rechargeable and disposable batteries

Oticon Real hearing aids start at $2,898 and can cost as much as $7,000 with walk in care

Oticon Real hearing aids require a visit to an in person audiologist and are not sold online

Conclusion

Hearing aids can significantly affect the quality of music and sound for people with hearing loss. The key is to choose a hearing aid that meets your needs and fine-tune the music program to your preferences.

It is also essential to communicate with your hearing healthcare professional about your music needs and preferences. If you're looking for more resources, try our Live Listen feature to hear sound quality from different hearing aid options.

Frequently asked questions

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Best Hearing Aids for Music (Plus Listening Optimization Tips)

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Music makes life more enjoyable. In this article, get the intel on the music listening experience, plus a close look at hearing aids and their ability to process sound and music.

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Hearing Aids for Musicians: Comprehensive Guide - Tinnitus hearing health and wellness.

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Hearing aids for musicians - everything you need to know!