You’ve probably heard of double vision before, but what about double hearing? This phenomenon, also known as diplacusis, occurs when the same sound is perceived differently in each ear. It can be disturbing and distracting for anyone who experiences it.
Let’s look more closely at why double hearing occurs, as well as what can be done to treat it.
Types of Double Hearing
There are two main types of diplacusis:
- Diplacusis dysharmonica: You hear the same sound in different pitches.
- Diplacusis echoica: You hear sounds at different speeds, which can make it seem like noises are echoing.
Who Gets Diplacusis?
Diplacusis can happen to anyone. However, several factors may put a person at a higher risk of experiencing it. Research has shown that “binaural diplacusis is more prevalent, and more pronounced, in hearing-impaired individuals.” It is especially more likely to occur in people who have asymmetric hearing loss or hearing loss in only one ear.
Causes of Double Hearing
In addition to having hearing loss, many people with double hearing notice that they start experiencing it after a sudden exposure to loud noise, having an ear infection or experiencing head trauma. Certain medications, autoimmune disorders and thyroid conditions can also damage the hair cells of the inner ear and cause double hearing.
Sometimes, diplacusis can also be caused by an obstruction in the ear. In addition to fluid buildup caused by an ear infection, other possible obstructions that could lead to double hearing include:
- Clogged ears from a respiratory illness or allergies
- Earwax buildup
- A rare type of benign tumor called an acoustic neuroma
Seeking Treatment
If you notice symptoms of double hearing while you’re at work or after seeing a live music show at Georgia Theatre, make an appointment with your medical provider to get checked out. If your symptoms are caused by an obstruction, removing it or treating the infection should return your hearing to normal.
If you have permanent sensorineural hearing loss, treatment options like hearing aids can both help with the hearing loss and potentially counteract the difference in perception of sound. You may also benefit from auditory rehabilitation to help your brain adapt.
For more information or to schedule an appointment with one of our hearing experts, call Georgia Hearing Center at ENT of Athens today.