Hearing loss can be described in many ways, one of which is referred to as a "cookie-bite." It references a U-shape pattern on a hearing test called an audiogram. The pattern indicates hearing loss affecting mid-frequency hearing impairment, a type of hearing loss referred to as sensorineural hearing loss. Less common than other forms of hearing loss, it's often related to the inner ear or nerve damage. Here's what you need to know about cookie-bite hearing loss.

How Is Your Hearing Affected?

Cookie-bite hearing loss affects your ability to hear mid-range frequencies. This refers to sounds that fall between 500 and 2,000 Hz in an audiogram. Unfortunately, many of the sounds you hear regularly fall within this range. You'll still be able to hear sounds falling outside this range, including gentle rain or a loud thunderstorm, and pick up on what people are saying for the most part, although you may have some difficulties here and there.

What Are the Possible Causes and Symptoms?

Cookie-bite hearing loss is often genetic. It's sometimes present at birth, although it can develop anytime. Considered rare, it's sometimes related to a rare tumor. Other possible factors include a condition known as vestibular schwannoma, which can lead to cookie-bite hearing loss. Symptoms associated with cookie-bite hearing loss include:

• Trouble hearing people speaking
• Difficulty hearing certain environmental sounds, music, or the TV
• Needing to turn up the volume to fully understand what's being said or played

Symptoms can vary in severity with cookie-bite hearing loss. For some, it's a minor inconvenience. However, this type of hearing impairment can be more severe and disruptive for others. Other times, it's an inconvenience only during certain moments, like in social settings.

What Are Available Treatment Options?

Some people with cookie-bite hearing loss respond well to hearing aids for this type of hearing impairment. It's also possible to make adaptations to improve your ability to hear and comprehend. For instance, you might use a phone with an amplifier or sit or stand closer to people you're conversing with at various times. If you have a child with cookie-bite hearing loss, let the school know so steps can be taken to make it easier for them to hear.

Call Us Today

If you believe you may have any hearing impairment, reach out to the hearing care specialists at Beltone South. Tests can be done to determine what type of hearing loss you may be dealing with. Appropriate steps can be taken to restore your ability to fully hear the world around you at any given moment. Many types of hearing loss can be managed well with customized hearing aids. Contact us today to set up an appointment.

References:
https://hoffmannaudiology.com/blog/cookie-bite-hearing-loss-what-you-need-to-know