Kerfluffle is not a word heard much anymore here in New England but there would be no mistake made as to it's meaning.
Around here it would be presumed to mean a mild, soon-blown-over disturbance.
Hearing:
As one with just 50 percent hearing (totally deaf in left ear) body language and expression are a big help. Thinking about this : I realize when I converse with people I invariably look at their lips with occasional glances eye-to-eye. I always mention my hearing loss so I hope people do not think I am being rude when I do not look them "right in the eye" all the time!
Guess I do more lip reading than I realized!