Unilateral hearing loss
Unilateral Hearing Loss
Unilateral hearing loss (pronunciation: yoo-ni-lat-er-al heer-ing loss) is a type of hearing impairment that affects one ear, while the other ear retains normal or near-normal hearing.
Etymology
The term "unilateral" is derived from the Latin words "uni" meaning "one" and "latus" meaning "side". The term "hearing loss" is self-explanatory, referring to the loss or reduction of the ability to perceive sound.
Definition
Unilateral hearing loss is characterized by a decrease in hearing sensitivity in one ear. This can range from mild to profound hearing loss. It can be either congenital (present at birth) or acquired (developed after birth).
Causes
Unilateral hearing loss can be caused by a variety of factors, including otitis media (middle ear infection), Meniere's disease, acoustic neuroma (a benign tumor on the auditory nerve), or trauma to the ear.
Symptoms
Symptoms of unilateral hearing loss may include difficulty understanding speech in noisy environments, difficulty localizing sound, and tinnitus (ringing in the ear) in the affected ear.
Treatment
Treatment for unilateral hearing loss may include hearing aids, cochlear implants, or bone conduction hearing devices. The choice of treatment depends on the severity of the hearing loss, the cause, and the individual's lifestyle and personal preferences.
Related Terms
- Bilateral hearing loss: Hearing loss in both ears.
- Sensorineural hearing loss: Hearing loss caused by damage to the inner ear or the nerve from the ear to the brain.
- Conductive hearing loss: Hearing loss caused by problems with the ear canal, ear drum, or middle ear and its little bones.
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on Unilateral hearing loss
- Wikipedia's article - Unilateral hearing loss
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