Understanding Diplacusis: What Is Hearing Double?

Imagine hearing the same sound differently in each ear. This perplexing condition is called diplacusis, and it can make everyday listening a challenge.

Understanding Diplacusis

Diplacusis, often referred to as “double hearing,” is a hearing disorder where one ear perceives a sound differently than the other. This phenomenon occurs due to damage to the hair cells in the inner ear that transmit signals to the auditory nerve. In simpler terms, diplacusis means hearing the same sound at different pitches or times in each ear. This condition can significantly affect daily life, especially for those with hearing loss in one ear.

The Intricacies of Double Hearing

Diplacusis manifests in a few distinct ways. It can affect just one ear, which is known as diplacusis monaural, or both ears, which is called diplacusis binaural. The most common form is diplacusis binaural, where sounds differ in pitch or timing between the ears.

Sound waves show on a black screen with the word “echo” written above.

Types of Diplacusis

Diplacusis Monauralis: This type involves one ear hearing a single sound as two distinct sounds.
Diplacusis Binauralis: Here, each ear hears the same sound differently. This category includes:
- Diplacusis Dysharmonica: One ear hears sounds at different pitches.
- Diplacusis Echoica: One ear hears sounds at different times, creating an echo effect.

Why Do I Have Double Hearing?

Several factors can cause this phenomenon:

Uneven Hearing: One ear might become less sensitive, leading to different sound perceptions.
Ear Infections: Fluid buildup from infections can disrupt sound transmission.
Meniere’s Disease: This inner ear disorder causes fluctuating hearing loss and can lead to diplacusis.
Head Trauma: Injuries to the inner ear can damage hair cells responsible for sound processing.
Medications: Some drugs can damage the inner ear and affect sound perception.

Find out more about ototoxic medications.

Will Diplacusis Go Away?

Whether diplacusis goes away depends on its cause.

Temporary Diplacusis

Ear Infections: Proper treatment can restore normal hearing.
Medication Side Effects: Switching medications may resolve the issue.

Permanent Diplacusis

Age-Related Hearing Loss: No cure exists, but management options can help.
Head Trauma: Damage may be permanent, leading to ongoing diplacusis.

Managing Diplacusis

Managing diplacusis effectively requires thoroughly understanding its underlying causes and implementing strategies to mitigate its impact on your daily life. Here’s a closer look at comprehensive management techniques:

Focus on the “Good” Ear

When one ear perceives sound more accurately than the other, maximizing the efficiency of the better-hearing ear is essential. Here’s how:

Aural Rehabilitation: This involves auditory training exercises designed to enhance the brain’s ability to process sounds from the better-hearing ear. These exercises can include:

Listening Practice: Regularly practice listening to various sounds and distinguishing between them using only the good ear.
Speech Discrimination Exercises: Focus on understanding speech in noisy environments, which can help the brain adapt to relying more on the good ear.
Hearing Aid Customization: A hearing aid in the better hearing ear can provide additional amplification and clarity, ensuring sound signals are as clear and precise as possible.

Sound Therapy

Sound therapy uses background noise or specific sound generators to mask the perception of double sounds. This approach can be particularly beneficial for those with diplacusis echoica or dysharmonica.

White Noise Machines: These devices emit a consistent sound that can help mask the disruptive double hearing. Use them in quiet settings like bedrooms or study areas.
Customized Sound Therapy: Audiologists can create tailored soundscapes matching your hearing needs. This might involve:
Pink Noise: Similar to white noise but with a softer tone that can be more soothing.
Nature Sounds: Recordings of rain, ocean waves, or forest sounds that can provide a calming auditory environment.
Sound Masking Apps: Downloadable apps offer various masking sounds that you can adjust according to your needs. These apps are portable, and you can use them on smartphones or tablets.

Hearing Aids and Assistive Devices

Modern hearing aids and assistive listening devices offer advanced features that can help manage diplacusis effectively:

Advanced Hearing Aids: These devices can be programmed to address specific hearing discrepancies between ears:
Frequency Shaping: Tailor the frequency response to balance the perceived pitch differences.
Directional Microphones: Focus on amplifying sounds from a particular direction to reduce background noise and improve clarity.
Binaural Hearing Aids: Using hearing aids in both ears can help synchronize sound perception, reducing the effect of diplacusis:
Wireless Connectivity: Modern aids can communicate with each other to provide a cohesive listening experience.
Bone Conduction Devices: These devices bypass the outer and middle ear, sending sound directly to the inner ear. They can be instrumental if diplacusis is caused by obstructions in the ear canal.

Addressing Underlying Causes

Effectively managing diplacusis involves treating any underlying medical conditions:

Ear Infections: Prompt medical treatment with antibiotics or other medications can resolve infections and restore normal hearing. Follow-up care is crucial to ensure you’ve fully cleared the infection.
Medication Adjustments: If certain medications are causing diplacusis, consult your doctor about switching to alternatives. Never stop taking prescribed medication without professional guidance.
Managing Meniere’s Disease: This chronic condition requires a comprehensive treatment plan, including:
Medications: Diuretics or corticosteroids to manage symptoms.
Dietary Changes: Reducing salt intake to decrease fluid retention in the inner ear.

An older man is having his hearing tested in a soundproof room.

Additional Strategies

Incorporating lifestyle changes and supportive therapies can also aid in managing diplacusis:

Protect Your Ears: Avoid exposure to loud noises and use ear protection in noisy environments to prevent further hearing damage.
Regular Hearing Assessments: Schedule regular check-ups with an audiologist to monitor your hearing and adjust treatments as necessary.
Supportive Counseling: Dealing with diplacusis can be stressful. Counseling or support groups can provide emotional support and coping strategies.
Consulting a Hearing Professional: The first step in managing diplacusis is consulting a hearing specialist. Audiologists and ENT specialists can:
- Conduct Comprehensive Hearing Tests: Identify the specific type and cause of diplacusis.
- Develop Personalized Treatment Plans: Tailor treatments to your unique hearing needs, combining medical, technological, and therapeutic approaches.
- Provide Ongoing Support: Regular follow-ups to adjust treatments and provide continuous care.

By understanding and implementing these detailed strategies, you can manage diplacusis more effectively and improve your overall hearing health. Don’t hesitate to seek professional help to explore these options and find the best solution for your needs.

Find out more about protecting your hearing in our National Protect Your Hearing Month guide.

End the Echo: Seek Expert Help

Diplacusis can be a troubling experience, but professional help is available. If you notice signs of diplacusis, consult a hearing specialist. They can diagnose the underlying cause and develop a personalized treatment plan.

Contact Stanford Hearing for a consultation. Our experts will guide you through the process of managing and improving your hearing health. Don’t let diplacusis disrupt your life. Reach out today and take the first step towards clearer hearing.