9. The Phantom Sounds: Auditory Symptoms of Concussions
Entering the lesser-known territory of concussion symptoms, we encounter a surprising manifestation – auditory symptoms. Yes, concussions can indeed have an impact on our hearing and perception of sounds.
Following a concussion, individuals may experience tinnitus, a condition characterized by a ringing, buzzing, or hissing sound in the ears. This phantom sound can be disconcerting, and while it usually improves over time, it can be quite disruptive.
Hyperacusis, or an increased sensitivity to everyday sounds, is another potential auditory symptom. The everyday hum of life – the clatter of dishes, the sound of traffic, even human voices – may suddenly seem unbearably loud or harsh.
In addition, some people might notice changes in their hearing acuity. It may seem as if the volume of the world has been turned down, or that certain frequencies are harder to hear. It can also result in difficulties in spatial localization of sounds, making it hard to pinpoint where a sound is coming from.
Though these auditory symptoms might be less commonly discussed, they are a reminder of the many ways a concussion can manifest. While disorienting, these symptoms are typically transient and improve over time. Coping strategies like using earplugs in loud environments or using white noise to manage tinnitus can help during this recovery period. (9)
