Low-frequency hearing loss: when deep sounds fade
Low-frequency hearing loss affects the deep, low-pitched sounds. It is much less common than high-frequency loss, and it often has a specific cause, so it is worth having checked and explained properly.
A chart that slopes the other way.
On a hearing chart, low-frequency hearing loss shows as reduced hearing on the left-hand side, in the low pitches, with better hearing in the high pitches. It is sometimes called reverse-slope hearing loss, because it is the opposite of the far more common pattern.
Because consonants are high-pitched, people with low-frequency loss often understand speech well, especially in quiet. What they notice instead is that deep voices, music, thunder or traffic seem quieter, that the ear feels full, or that there is a low hum or roar. It can affect one ear or both.
A sudden low-frequency loss in one ear needs medical review, ideally the same day.
Some forms run in families and change slowly over many years.
Signs of low-frequency loss.
A full hearing test shows it clearly. Because low-frequency loss often has a specific cause, we write to your GP if the results suggest it needs looking into.
What can cause it.
One of the most common causes, often with fluctuating hearing, tinnitus, fullness and vertigo.
Read about Ménière's diseaseA rapid drop in the low pitches, sometimes with fullness. Needs prompt medical review.
Read about sudden hearing lossGlue ear and Eustachian tube problems tend to affect the low pitches first.
Read about glue earBone growth in the middle ear, often starting in the low pitches.
Read about otosclerosisSome inherited types of hearing loss mainly affect the low pitches.
Rarely, changes in the pressure of the fluid around the brain and inner ear.
A different kind of fitting.
Low-frequency hearing loss needs a different approach from the usual hearing aid set-up, so experience matters.
If the pattern suggests Ménière's, fluid or another treatable cause, we write to your GP before anything else.
Hearing aids can boost the low pitches you are missing, while leaving your good high-pitch hearing alone.
A more closed fit often works better for low-frequency loss, so the extra bass is not lost.
Low-frequency losses can fluctuate, so follow-up adjustments are included in your aftercare.
Get medical help today if
- Low-pitched hearing dropped suddenly, in one or both ears
- It came with severe dizziness or vomiting
- It followed a head injury
Sudden hearing loss is an emergency. Contact your GP or NHS 111 the same day, or go to A&E.
Frequently asked questions.
No. It is much less common than high-frequency loss, which is why it is worth having the cause looked into.
Sometimes. Loss caused by fluid, or a sudden low-frequency loss treated early, can recover. Loss from Ménière's may fluctuate. Inherited loss is usually permanent.
Yes, though they need setting up differently from a standard fitting, often with a more closed fit to keep the bass in.
Phone audio has a limited range and removes some cues your brain relies on, so any hearing loss, including low-frequency loss, becomes more noticeable.
If the loss came on quickly, affects one ear, fluctuates, or comes with dizziness, yes. We will write to your GP if your hearing test shows it is needed.
See what your hearing chart shows.
A free 60 minute hearing test, with your results explained the same day.
High-frequency hearing lossMénière's diseaseTypes of hearing lossHearing aid fittingsHearing tests
Written and clinically reviewed by our HCPC registered audiologists. Last reviewed: 15 October 2026. This page is general information, not a diagnosis. If you are worried about your hearing or your ears, book an appointment or speak to your GP.