Don’t Overlook This Quiet Symptom of Concussion
- Anne Shaknis Quirk
- Jan 29
- 2 min read
At True Self Speech Therapy, we specialize in helping individuals recover from neurological injuries, including concussions and brain injuries. While dizziness, headaches, and fatigue are commonly recognized symptoms of a concussion, many people overlook the impact concussions can have on hearing and sound processing.
How Concussions Affect Hearing
A concussion is a mild traumatic brain injury that can damage tiny hair cells in the inner ear. These cells are responsible for converting sound into signals that the brain can process. When damaged, they cannot regenerate, leading to:
Tinnitus (ringing in the ears)
Noise sensitivity
Difficulty understanding speech in noisy environments
The Hidden Struggle with Sound Processing
Even if a person's hearing appears normal, they may struggle to distinguish words in background noise or process fast speech. Studies have shown that athletes with concussions perform poorly on Speech-in-Noise tests, making it harder for them to follow conversations in busy settings.
Signs to Watch For
Concussion-related hearing issues can show up as:
Increased difficulty following conversations
Trouble focusing in noisy environments
Complaints of ringing or buzzing in the ears
Sensitivity to loud or sudden sounds
These symptoms can impact concentration, work performance, and social interactions. In children, hearing issues post-concussion may present as new learning difficulties or trouble keeping up in school.
Where to Get Help
If you or a loved one are experiencing hearing or sound processing difficulties after a concussion, seeking support is essential. An ENT specialist or audiologist can assess ear health and hearing, while a speech-language pathologist can help with sound discrimination, auditory processing, and cognitive-linguistic skills.
At True Self Speech Therapy, we provide specialized therapy to help individuals regain their confidence in communication following a brain injury. If you suspect lingering difficulties after a concussion, contact us today to schedule an evaluation.
Disclaimer: This blog post is for informational purposes only and should not be considered a substitute for professional medical advice. Please consult with a qualified speech pathologist for a personalized evaluation and treatment plan.
Source: "Don’t miss a quiet symptom of concussion" by Joel Streed, January 21, 2025 Mayo Clinic Health System Blog.
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