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Hearing

Configuration of Hearing Loss

The configuration or “shape” of hearing loss refers to the extent of loss at high and low frequencies, which creates an overall “picture” of your hearing ability. For example:

  • Hearing loss that only affects high frequencies is described as a high frequency loss. The configuration shows good hearing in the low frequencies and poor hearing in the high frequencies

  • If only low frequencies are affected, the configuration shows poorer hearing for low tones and better hearing for high tones

  • Some hearing loss configurations are flat, indicating that there is the same amount of hearing loss for both low and high tones

Other terms associated with hearing loss are:

  • Symmetrical vs. asymmetrical - Symmetrical hearing loss means that the degree and configuration of hearing loss are the same in each ear. Asymmetrical hearing loss means that the degree and/or configuration of the loss is different for each ear.

  • Fluctuating vs. stable hearing loss - Some hearing losses can change, sometimes getting better, sometimes getting worse. These changes commonly occur in young children with hearing loss resulting from otitis media or fluid in the middle ear. Other hearing losses stay the same year after year and are regarded as stable.

  • Progressive vs. sudden hearing loss - Progressive hearing loss tends to get worse over time. Sudden hearing loss occurs rapidly, possibly resulting from a head injury, exposure to excessive noise, or a growth on the auditory nerve.

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