Understanding Single-Sided Deafness: Causes, Challenges, and Modern Solutions
When hearing loss occurs, it doesn’t always affect both ears equally. For some people, one ear continues to function normally while the other experiences little to no usable hearing. This condition is known as Single-Sided Deafness (SSD).
At first, SSD may not seem as concerning as hearing loss in both ears. After all, one ear is still working. However, SSD creates unique challenges that can have a major impact on daily life, particularly in group conversations, noisy environments, or situations where sound direction is important.
At Knox Audiology, our mission is to help patients not only understand the nature of their hearing condition but also find solutions that restore confidence and connection in everyday life.
What is SSD?
SSD occurs when one ear has severe to profound hearing loss that cannot be improved with traditional hearing aids, while the other ear maintains normal hearing.
This makes SSD very different from mild or moderate hearing loss in one ear. In cases of SSD, the affected ear contributes little to no usable input, leaving the brain to rely entirely on the “good ear.”
Because hearing is a two-ear process, the brain loses its ability to naturally locate sounds, distinguish speech in noise, and process information effortlessly. This is why SSD can feel more disruptive than it first appears.
What Causes SSD?
There are several known causes of SSD, and in many cases, the hearing loss occurs suddenly and without warning:
• Viral infections
Certain viral illnesses can damage the inner ear or auditory nerve, leading to sudden, permanent loss in one ear.
• Acoustic neuroma
A benign tumour that grows on the auditory nerve, often leading to balance issues as well as gradual hearing loss and tinnitus in one ear.
• Sudden Sensorineural Hearing Loss
A rapid hearing loss in one ear, often developing over hours or days.
• Head trauma or injury
Direct damage to the ear or auditory nerve from accidents can cause unilateral deafness.
• Circulatory or autoimmune conditions
In some cases, reduced blood flow or autoimmune disorders can lead to SSD.
• Complications from surgery or medical treatment
Certain ear surgeries or even rare side effects from medical treatments can result in SSD.
Because causes can vary widely, a professional hearing assessment is essential for understanding the cause of the problem and determining the best solution.
The Daily Challenges of SSD
Many people with Single-Sided Deafness can still hear well enough in quiet, one-on-one conversations, which can make the condition feel deceptively manageable. However, real-life listening is rarely that simple. SSD often leads to:
Difficulty in noisy environments: Restaurants, workplaces, and social gatherings become challenging because the brain can no longer separate speech from background sound efficiently.
Trouble localising sounds: With only one ear contributing, it’s difficult to tell where a sound is coming from. This can be frustrating in daily life and even a safety concern when crossing roads or cycling.
Listening fatigue: Because the brain has to work harder to make sense of incomplete sound, many people with SSD feel mentally exhausted after social interactions.
Social and emotional impact: Misunderstandings, difficulties following group conversations, and the constant effort to keep up can lead to feelings of isolation or reluctance to participate socially.
These challenges highlight why support and modern solutions are so important.
Modern Solutions for SSD: CROS Systems and Beyond
While a standard hearing aid may not provide much benefit in cases of SSD, modern technology offers innovative solutions. One of the most effective is the CROS (Contralateral Routing of Signal) system.
How a CROS System Works
A discreet device is placed on the ear with hearing loss.
This device picks up sound from that side and wirelessly transmits it to a receiver in the good ear.
The brain receives sound input from both sides, allowing for a more natural listening experience.
With a CROS system, patients no longer miss out on conversations happening on their “bad” side. Instead, they can stay engaged, even in group discussions or noisy environments.
Other Options
In some cases, bone-anchored hearing devices may be considered, which transmit sound vibrations through the bone to the better-hearing ear. These solutions can be highly effective depending on individual needs. In other cases, a person may also benefit from a cochlear implant. This can help the person hear in the ear with the hearing loss even when a hearing aid won’t help.
Sometimes accessories such as devices that help with listening to the TV or remote microphones can help in certain situations. There are also lots of hearing and listening strategies that can help a person with SSD manage their hearing loss.
Knox Audiology: Your Partner in Hearing Health
At Knox Audiology, our university-trained audiologists understand how overwhelming SSD can feel, not only physically but also emotionally. Our audiologists are experienced in diagnosing SSD and guiding patients through the latest treatment options.
Here’s how we support you:
• Comprehensive assessment to identify the cause and impact of your hearing loss.
• Clear education on the science behind SSD and why certain solutions are most effective.
• Tailored recommendations from CROS systems to advanced devices, we match technology to your lifestyle.
• Support to help you navigate funding and rebate options so that solutions remain within your budget.
We believe that with the right approach, SSD does not have to limit your ability to connect, communicate, and thrive in daily life.
Take the Next Step
If you or someone you love is living with Single-Sided Deafness, support and solutions are available. Don’t let hearing challenges hold you back.
Call Knox Audiology on 03 9800 5697 or book online to arrange an appointment today. Our caring team will guide you through every step, helping you regain confidence in how you hear and connect with the world.