I have the same problem as hootie. I've lost the ability to discriminate sounds. I was in bands for several years and the amps took their toll.
Hubby has loss in both ears-nerve damage-it runs in his family.
He is a successful professional and the only effect I think it might have had was that feeling of being different and of course the
obnoxious people who will make a joke and think it's so funny...all in jest.
Some people look at anything "different" as a weakness, and that is something he acknowledges and carries with him. Yet, I also think some people believe it makes him more sensitive and better in his field!
He did say one time that the most comfortable he ever felt his entire life was in Kansas...but then everyone around us suffered from tractor ear! TRUE!
I did want to add that my brother-in-law who has the most damage is thinking about an implant. Is that an option for you?