Sensitivity to sound A common consequence of hearing loss is an increased sensitivity to sound and the way one perceives sound. Loud sounds may seem much too loud and soft sounds may be inaudible.

Many types of hearing loss can give an increased sensitivity to sound. A person with a hearing loss may therefore have difficulty hearing soft sounds but also have a problem with loud sounds. As a result, loud speech can be just as difficult to understand as soft speech. Loud sounds (for example children’s screams, trucks, scraping of chairs) may cause actual physical discomfort in some people.

Many modern hearing aids can be adjusted so that loud sounds are not too loud and soft sounds remain audible. It is therefore important not to shout when speaking with a hearing impaired person.

Read more about how to optimise communication with a person with a hearing loss.

Do you know anyone with a hearing loss

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