We’ve learned a lot about COVID-19 over the past five years. While many people recovered quickly, others continue to live with persistent symptoms, often referred to as Long COVID. Most of us associate Long COVID with fatigue, shortness of breath, or “brain fog.” But here’s something less talked about: COVID can also impact your hearing and balance.
Understanding Long COVID and Its Lasting Effects
What Is Long COVID?
Long COVID refers to ongoing health problems that continue for weeks or months after the initial infection. According to health experts, these lingering effects can affect nearly every part of the body, including the nervous system and ears.
Common Symptoms Beyond Fatigue and Brain Fog
While exhaustion and memory issues are the most well-known, many people also experience:
- Hearing difficulties
- Ringing in the ears (tinnitus)
- Balance issues or dizziness
These symptoms can last long after the virus is gone.
How COVID Can Affect Hearing and Balance
Viruses like measles, mumps, and chickenpox have long been linked to ear-related complications. COVID-19 appears to behave in a similar way.
Hearing Loss After COVID
Research shows that about 1 in 20 people experience hearing loss after a COVID infection. This can make it harder to follow conversations, especially in noisy environments.
Tinnitus: Ringing in the Ears
Approximately 1 in 7 people report tinnitus following COVID. This constant ringing or buzzing can be distracting, stressful, and even interfere with sleep.
Dizziness and Balance Problems
Some Long COVID patients also experience vertigo or dizziness, affecting daily activities and mobility.
The Connection Between Hearing and Brain Health
Why Hearing Loss Affects Thinking
Your ears and brain work hand in hand. When hearing becomes difficult, your brain must work overtime to process sounds. Over time, this extra strain can lead to cognitive fatigue.
Long COVID, Memory, and Concentration Challenges
Many Long COVID patients report:
- Trouble concentrating
- Difficulty remembering things
- Feeling mentally “foggy”
These challenges are often linked to both reduced hearing and the overall stress COVID puts on the body.
Emotional and Social Impacts of Long COVID on Hearing
Frustration, Depression, and Isolation
Hearing and cognitive difficulties can cause social withdrawal. People may avoid conversations or gatherings, leading to loneliness and depression.
The Importance of Staying Connected
Social connection is one of the best ways to protect brain health. Whether it’s through video calls, phone chats, or in-person meetups, staying engaged is essential.
The Good News: Treatments and Support Are Available
Modern Hearing Aids and Assistive Technology
Today’s hearing aids come equipped with Bluetooth, noise reduction, and speech enhancement features. Tools like captioned phones and speech-to-text apps make conversations easier.
Therapy Options for Balance and Cognitive Health
- Balance therapy can help retrain your inner ear and improve confidence.
- Cognitive training exercises can boost memory and focus.
Lifestyle Tips to Protect Hearing and Brain Wellness
- Stay socially active
- Eat a balanced diet rich in brain-boosting nutrients
- Exercise regularly to improve circulation and ear health
When to See a Hearing Specialist
Signs It’s Time for a Checkup
- Difficulty understanding conversations in noisy places
- Ringing in your ears that won’t go away
- Frequent dizziness or balance problems
What to Expect During a Hearing Test
Audiologists will check your hearing, assess balance concerns, and recommend the right solutions—whether that’s hearing aids, therapy, or technology support.
FAQs About Long COVID and Hearing Health
1. Can COVID really cause permanent hearing loss?
In some cases, yes. While many symptoms improve over time, some people experience lasting hearing changes.
2. Is tinnitus after COVID temporary?
It can be temporary, but for some, it lingers. Treatments and sound therapy can help manage it.
3. How does hearing loss make brain fog worse?
When your brain works harder to process sound, it has fewer resources for memory and focus.
4. Can hearing aids really help with brain fog?
Yes. By reducing listening effort, hearing aids allow your brain to concentrate better.
5. Should I see a doctor or an audiologist first?
Both can help, but an audiologist specializes in hearing and balance issues and can provide targeted solutions.
6. Is there anything I can do at home to support my hearing?
Yes—protect your ears from loud noise, eat well, stay active, and keep socially engaged.