Why Can a Person Hear Sounds but Not Understand Speech? Causes and Solutions
Can you hear people talking around you but have difficulty understanding what they are saying? Can you hear the television, cars, people, and other surrounding sounds, but find yourself asking someone to repeat their words when they speak to you? Has it become especially difficult for you to follow conversations in noisy environments?
This situation may not simply be related to a lack of attention or tiredness. Sometimes, a person can hear sounds but has difficulty clearly distinguishing speech and understanding words. This may be caused by changes in the auditory system, problems in the inner ear, difficulties with speech perception, or other audiological factors.
Hearing and understanding what you hear are not the same process. The ears receive sounds, while the brain processes these sounds and gives them meaning. If a problem occurs at any stage of this process, a person may hear sounds but still have difficulty fully understanding what is being said.
So, why can a person hear sounds but not understand speech? What are the main causes of this problem? What can a hearing examination determine, and how can modern hearing aids help in this situation?
As Avaz Hearing and Speech Center, we provide detailed information about this topic in this article.
Why Can a Person Hear Sounds but Be Unable to Understand Speech?
The human auditory system is a highly complex mechanism. Sounds from our surroundings are received through the ears, converted into nerve signals in the inner ear, and transmitted to the brain through the auditory nerve. The brain then processes these signals to identify words, sounds, and the meaning of speech.
In some cases, a person may be able to hear loud or everyday sounds, but distinguishing individual words during a conversation can become difficult.
For example:
- You can hear someone speaking, but you cannot fully understand what they are saying.
- You frequently ask people to repeat their words.
- You have difficulty understanding the other person during phone conversations.
- You need to increase the television volume when watching TV.
- You cannot follow a conversation when several people are speaking at the same time.
- You have difficulty distinguishing female and children's voices or high-pitched sounds.
These signs may indicate hearing loss or difficulties with speech discrimination. However, it is not possible to make a specific diagnosis based on these symptoms alone.
The Main Causes of Difficulty Understanding Speech
Difficulty understanding speech can occur for various reasons. Audiological testing and, when necessary, a medical evaluation are important to determine the exact cause of the problem.
1. Hearing Loss
One of the main causes that should be investigated when a person has difficulty understanding speech is hearing loss.
When hearing loss occurs, a person may perceive some sounds normally while hearing others less clearly. In particular, when hearing sensitivity decreases at certain frequencies that are important for speech perception, correctly understanding words can become more difficult.
For example, a person may hear someone speaking but be unable to distinguish certain parts of the words. As a result, understanding the overall meaning of a sentence becomes more difficult.
When hearing loss develops gradually, a person may become accustomed to these changes and notice the problem only at a later stage.
2. Problems in the Inner Ear
The cochlea, located in the inner ear, is an important structure that converts sound waves into nerve signals.
Damage to the sensitive hair cells located in the cochlea can lead to sensorineural hearing loss. In such cases, difficulties may arise not only in hearing sounds but also in perceiving their clarity and distinguishing speech.
These problems may be associated with age-related changes, prolonged exposure to loud sounds, side effects of certain medications, infections, and other medical conditions.
3. Difficulty Understanding Speech in Noisy Environments
Some people can easily understand conversations in a quiet room but experience difficulty understanding speech in restaurants, on the street, on public transport, and in other noisy environments.
This may be caused by difficulty separating speech signals from background noise.
Even some people with a normal audiogram may experience problems understanding speech in noisy environments. Therefore, the results of standard pure-tone audiometry may not explain all listening difficulties.
4. Difficulties Related to Auditory Processing of Speech
The auditory system does not simply receive sounds; it also plays a role in distinguishing and interpreting them.
Some people may have normal hearing thresholds but still experience difficulties processing speech sounds and understanding them, particularly in complex listening environments.
For example, it may be difficult to focus on one person's speech in a room where several people are talking simultaneously.
In such situations, a specialist may also evaluate the possibility of Auditory Processing Disorder (APD). This condition is not the same as ordinary hearing loss and requires a separate assessment approach.
5. Ear Problems
Fluid accumulation in the middle ear, problems involving the eardrum and auditory ossicles, earwax, and other conditions can interfere with sound transmission.
This may lead to conductive hearing loss. A person may notice that they no longer hear sounds as clearly as before and have difficulty following conversations.
To identify such problems, an examination by an ear, nose, and throat (ENT) specialist may also be necessary alongside audiological testing.
In Which Situations Is Difficulty Understanding Speech More Noticeable?
This problem can manifest itself in various everyday situations.
During phone conversations: Even if you can hear the other person's voice, distinguishing their words may be difficult. This is because you cannot use additional visual information, such as facial expressions and lip movements.
During conversations with family and friends: When several people speak at the same time, distinguishing speech can become more difficult.
At work and in educational settings: You may miss some of the information presented during meetings, lessons, and presentations.
While watching television: Even when the volume is sufficiently high, understanding dialogue can be difficult.
In public places: Background noise in restaurants, cafés, and on the street can interfere with understanding speech.
If these difficulties occur regularly, it is advisable to have your hearing checked.
What Hearing Tests Are Performed to Evaluate Speech Understanding?
To determine the cause of the problem, it may not be enough to check only which sounds a person can hear. In addition to hearing thresholds, it is also important to evaluate how accurately speech is perceived.
The following are the main examination methods used as part of audiological assessment at Avaz Hearing and Speech Center.
1. Pure-Tone Audiometry
Audiometry is one of the main tests performed to determine a person's hearing level.
During the examination, sounds at different frequencies and intensities are delivered through headphones. The patient responds to the sounds they hear. As a result, the hearing thresholds of both ears are evaluated through air and bone conduction.
Audiometry can help determine:
- Whether hearing loss is present;
- The degree of hearing loss;
- Which frequencies show reduced hearing sensitivity;
- Differences between the right and left ears.
2. Speech Audiometry
If a person can hear sounds but has difficulty understanding speech, speech audiometry may be particularly important.
During this test, the patient is presented with specific words or speech materials. Their ability to hear and repeat these words correctly is evaluated.
Speech audiometry helps provide information about a person's ability to distinguish and understand speech.
When the results of this test are evaluated together with pure-tone audiometry results, a more comprehensive understanding of the person's hearing condition can be obtained.
3. Tympanometry
Tympanometry is a test performed to evaluate the functional condition of the middle ear.
During the examination, the response of the eardrum and middle ear system to changes in air pressure is measured.
This method can help identify fluid accumulation in the middle ear, eardrum mobility, and other problems associated with conductive hearing loss.
Important: The specialist determines which examinations are necessary based on the patient's complaints and the results of the initial assessment.
How Can Hearing Aids Help People Understand Speech Better When They Have Hearing Loss?
When hearing loss is identified and a specialist recommends a hearing aid, a properly selected and individually programmed device can help make speech sounds more accessible.
Modern hearing aids do much more than simply increase overall sound volume. They process sounds across different frequencies, take the listening environment into account, and support more comfortable speech perception.
The following technologies may be particularly important for users who experience difficulty understanding speech:
- Multichannel sound processing: Allows sound to be individually adjusted across different frequency ranges according to the user's hearing needs.
- Background noise management: Helps reduce the impact of background sounds in certain listening environments.
- Directional microphones: Depending on the model, they can help give priority to sounds coming from the direction of the person speaking.
- Artificial intelligence technologies: In compatible models, these technologies are used to analyse complex sound environments and improve speech detection.
- Bluetooth connectivity: In compatible devices, it allows phone calls and other audio sources to be transmitted directly to the hearing aids.
The availability and effectiveness of these features depend on the device model, its technological level, and the user's individual hearing characteristics.
Avaz Hearing and Speech Center – Professional Support for Clearer Hearing
Hearing problems do not only mean difficulty hearing sounds. Understanding what other people say, communicating with family members, having comfortable phone conversations, and actively participating in social life are also important aspects of hearing health.
Avaz Hearing and Speech Center provides services in the assessment of hearing problems, selection of suitable hearing aids, individual programming, and technical support.
At our center, an appropriate solution is determined for each patient by taking their hearing test results and individual needs into consideration.
Professional Audiological Examination
At Avaz, audiometry and tympanometry examinations are carried out using modern audiological equipment.
The results of these examinations are used to evaluate the patient's hearing condition and provide appropriate recommendations regarding the next steps.
Our goal is not simply to provide a hearing aid, but to correctly identify the needs of every patient.
Phonak – Modern Hearing Technologies
As the only official distributor of Phonak in Azerbaijan, Avaz Hearing and Speech Center offers original Phonak hearing aids with official warranty coverage and appropriate technical support.
Phonak offers behind-the-ear, RIC, and in-the-ear hearing aid models designed to meet different hearing needs.
Depending on the model and its technologies, Phonak hearing aids may offer the following features:
Artificial Intelligence and Advanced Sound Processing: Modern Phonak platforms use advanced technologies to analyse complex listening environments and support more comfortable speech perception.
Noise Management: Features are available to help users follow conversations in restaurants, on the street, and in other noisy environments.
Bluetooth Connectivity: Compatible Phonak models can connect to phones, tablets, and other devices, supporting direct audio streaming.
Personalised Listening Experience: Device settings are adjusted according to audiometry results and the user's everyday needs.
Product families such as Phonak Audéo, Audéo Sphere, Terra, Naída, and Virto include models designed to meet different user needs.
Helix – Hearing Aid Models for Different Hearing Needs
Another major product range offered at Avaz is Helix hearing aids.
The Helix product range includes behind-the-ear and in-the-ear models. These devices are selected by taking into account different degrees of hearing loss, wearing comfort, and technical requirements.
Helix Force CIC: An in-the-ear hearing aid model designed for users who prefer a less noticeable design and a device positioned inside the ear canal.
Helix Force SP: A powerful behind-the-ear model designed for users who require a higher level of amplification.
Helix Alfa: The product range includes models with different specifications and user functions to meet various hearing needs.
Depending on the model, Helix hearing aids may offer sound processing, programme memory, volume adjustment, and other features.
When selecting modern devices, it is important to consider not only the number of channels and technical specifications but also audiometry results, speech understanding scores, and the user's actual needs.
Individual Programming and Fitting
Even two people with the same hearing loss measurements may have different listening needs. Therefore, individual programming of hearing aids is very important.
At Avaz, Phonak and Helix devices are programmed according to the results of the audiological examination.
During this process:
- Hearing thresholds are taken into consideration;
- Sound levels at different frequencies are adjusted;
- Particular attention is paid to the perception of speech sounds;
- The user's everyday listening environments are taken into account;
- Additional adjustments are made when necessary.
Our goal is to provide a listening experience that is as comfortable and functional as possible for each user.
Technical Service and Ongoing Support
Regular maintenance and technical checks are also important for ensuring that a hearing aid functions properly.
Avaz Hearing and Speech Center provides technical service and programming support for Phonak and Helix devices.
This means that patients do not simply purchase a hearing aid; they can also receive the necessary technical support throughout the period of use.
What Should You Consider When Choosing a Hearing Aid?
The same hearing aid is not suitable for every person who experiences difficulty understanding speech. The following factors should be considered when selecting a device:
- Audiometry results: The degree of hearing loss and the frequencies affected.
- Speech understanding scores: How accurately the person can distinguish words and understand speech.
- Daily lifestyle: The user's listening needs at work, at home, and in social environments.
- Device technology: Sound processing, microphone systems, Bluetooth, and other features.
- Individual programming: Adjusting the device according to the examination results.
- Technical support: Availability of follow-up service, maintenance, and additional adjustments.
The most expensive device or the one with the greatest number of features is not necessarily the best choice for everyone. The most important thing is to select a hearing aid that matches the person's hearing results and individual needs.
When Should You Definitely Consult a Specialist?
If you experience one or more of the following situations, it is recommended that you have your hearing checked:
- You frequently ask people to repeat what they have said;
- You can hear people speaking but cannot clearly distinguish their words;
- You turn up the television or phone volume higher than other people do;
- You have difficulty following conversations in noisy environments;
- Your family members tell you that your hearing has become weaker;
- You have started experiencing difficulty understanding words during phone conversations.
Timely examination is important for identifying the cause of the problem and choosing the appropriate next steps.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. I can hear sounds, but I cannot understand what people are saying. Is this hearing loss?
Yes, this may be a sign of hearing loss. In particular, reduced hearing sensitivity at frequencies important for speech can make it difficult to distinguish words. However, other causes of this problem are also possible. An audiological examination is necessary for an accurate assessment.
2. If my hearing test results are normal, why do I have difficulty understanding speech?
Standard pure-tone audiometry evaluates the level at which you can hear sounds, but it does not measure every aspect of speech understanding. Some people may have normal audiometry results but still experience difficulty understanding speech, particularly in noisy environments. In such cases, speech audiometry and other appropriate examinations may be necessary.
3. Can a hearing aid help me understand speech more clearly?
For speech understanding difficulties associated with hearing loss, a properly selected and individually programmed hearing aid can help improve the perception of speech sounds. The results depend on the type and degree of hearing loss, as well as the person's ability to discriminate speech.
4. Which hearing aid is suitable for hearing speech more clearly?
The answer is different for every individual. Various Phonak and Helix hearing aid models offer different technologies and features. The appropriate model should be selected by taking audiometry results and individual listening needs into account.
5. Can difficulty understanding speech be related to age?
Yes. Changes can occur in the auditory system as people get older. These changes may affect the ability to distinguish speech sounds and communicate in noisy environments. However, difficulty understanding speech is not limited to older people.
6. Which examination should I have if I experience difficulty understanding speech?
Pure-tone audiometry may be performed as an initial assessment. Depending on the nature of the complaints, speech audiometry, tympanometry, and other examinations may also be recommended. The specialist determines which tests are necessary.
Take the First Step Towards Clearer Hearing!
Difficulty understanding what other people say can affect your daily life, communication, and social activities. Instead of ignoring this problem, it is better to investigate its cause in a timely manner.
At Avaz Hearing and Speech Center, we provide professional audiological examinations, individual selection of Phonak and Helix hearing aids, programming, and technical support services.
You can visit our branches in Ganjlik, Ahmadli, and Khatai to receive detailed information about your hearing condition.
The selection of a hearing aid must always be based on examination results. Consult our specialists to determine the solution that best suits your needs.
Contact: +994 12 311 20 18
Avaz Hearing and Speech Center – Let No One Be Left Unable to Hear!