Can a Stroke Cause Hearing Loss?

Connections, preventions, treatment options.

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), every 40 seconds, someone in the United States has a stroke, and every year, nearly 800,000 Americans have a stroke, with almost 1 in 4 occurring in people who’ve previously had a stroke.

When people think about the aftereffects of a stroke, they often focus on issues like mobility, speech difficulties, or memory challenges. But can a stroke affect your hearing?

In this article, we’ll look at stroke hearing loss and answer:

Can a stroke affect your hearing?
Is hearing loss in both ears after a stroke normal?
Can a mini-stroke affect hearing?
Stroke hearing loss signs to watch for
Stoke prevention tips
Can you regain hearing loss after a stroke?
Can Sudden Sensorineural Hearing Loss foreshadow a stroke?

Can a Stroke Affect Your Hearing?

A stroke occurs when blood flow to a part of the brain is interrupted, either by a clot or a ruptured blood vessel. Since the brain is the command center for all bodily functions, the effects of a stroke depend on the area that is impacted. When strokes affect areas of the brain responsible for processing sound or managing the auditory pathways, they can lead to:

Hearing Loss. Damage to the auditory cortex or auditory nerves can impair the brain's ability to process sounds, leading to partial or complete hearing loss. This type of hearing loss is often called central hearing loss, as it originates from the brain rather than the ears.
Auditory Processing Disorder (APD). Some stroke survivors may experience difficulty distinguishing between sounds or understanding speech, particularly in noisy environments. This is due to the brain’s reduced ability to process auditory information effectively.

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Is Hearing Loss in Both Ears After a Stroke Normal?

When sudden sensorineural hearing loss (SSNHL) does occur, it typically affects only one ear. Hearing loss in both ears after a stroke is less common and should be examined by a medical professional, as there may be underlying causes at play.

Can a Mini Stroke Affect Hearing?

Yes, a mini-stroke, or transient ischemic attack (TIA), can affect hearing, though it's relatively uncommon. Any sudden changes in hearing, especially if accompanied by numbness, weakness, vision changes, or difficulty speaking, should be treated as a medical emergency. While TIA symptoms often resolve quickly, they can indicate a higher risk of a future, more severe, stroke.

Stroke Hearing Loss Signs and Prevention Tips

Stroke Hearing Loss Signs to Watch For

If you or a loved one has experienced a stroke, watch for these potential signs of hearing issues:

Trouble understanding conversations
Sensitivity to loud noises
Difficulty locating where sounds are coming from
A persistent ringing or buzzing in the ears

Stroke Prevention Tips

On a more positive note, up to 80% of strokes may be preventable, says the American Stroke Association. You can work to prevent your chances of having a stroke by following these guidelines:

Manage high blood pressure and cholesterol
Stay physically active
Eat a balanced diet
Avoid smoking and excessive alcohol consumption

Act Fast: According to the American Stroke Association, you should call 911 right away if you observe someone experiencing the three primary symptoms of stroke: face drooping, arm weakness and difficulty with speech.

Can You Regain Hearing Loss After a Stroke?

While regaining full hearing after a stroke isn’t likely, advances in hearing technology and rehabilitation can support those with hearing loss. If you suspect hearing loss after a stroke, seek immediate professional evaluation. Prompt treatment can significantly preserve your quality of life. Hearing care specialists can perform tests to assess the extent and type of hearing loss and provide personalized recommendations from there. Stroke related hearing loss treatment options may include:

Hearing Aids

For those with permanent sensorineural hearing loss or mild central hearing loss, hearing aids don’t just amplify sounds; they can help support the brain’s neural plasticity.

Auditory Rehabilitation

Therapy designed to improve auditory processing skills can be highly beneficial, including exercises to strengthen cognitive and listening abilities.

Assistive Listening Devices (ALDs)

ALDs can be helpful for individuals with more severe auditory challenges, allowing them to amplify specific sounds or focus on speech in noisy settings.

Take Action With Amplifon Hearing Health Care

If you or a loved one experiences hearing loss after a stroke, talk to a professional hearing care provider as soon as possible. Early evaluation and treatment can maximize recovery potential.

Stroke survivors require accessible, high-quality hearing care to support their recovery and quality of life; Amplifon is dedicated to making that possible. With comprehensive hearing insurance benefits and advanced hearing solutions, accompanied by white glove service, we meet you where you are.

Our hearing insurance helps minimize out-of-pocket expenses so you can focus on your recovery. Our extensive network of hearing care professionals, including 7,000+ in-network clinics, and personalized service ensures expert, effective care. Get the support you need, and enjoy the gifts of sound.

Learn more about our programs and services.

Get the Care You Need

If you’re ready to explore how we can help with hearing challenges after a stroke, find a clinic near you. Together, we’ll work to ensure hearing loss doesn’t hold you back from living your best life.

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