5 Injuries That Can Cause Hearing Loss

Did you know that there are many different ways that hearing can be lost? It’s not just age-related. In fact, there are many injuries and conditions that can lead to hearing loss. If you’re concerned about your hearing or the hearing of a loved one, it’s essential to be aware of these potential causes of hearing loss. This blog post will discuss five of the most common injuries and conditions that can lead to hearing loss.

Sudden sensorineural hearing loss (SSHL)

SSHL is a sudden, usually permanent, loss of hearing that can be caused by a variety of things, including viral infections, head trauma, exposure to loud noise and certain medications. However, it typically affects only one ear. Symptoms of SSHL include a feeling of fullness or pressure in the affected ear, tinnitus (ringing in the ear) and vertigo (dizziness). If you experience any of these symptoms, it’s important to see a professional as soon as possible.

Frostbite

Frostbite is a condition that occurs when the skin and tissues are exposed to extreme cold. It most often affects the extremities, such as the hands, feet, ears and nose. Symptoms of frostbite include numbness, tingling and pain in the affected area. The skin may also appear red or pale. If you suspect you have frostbite, it’s important to seek medical attention right away, as permanent tissue damage can occur if the condition is not treated promptly.

Treatment for frostbite includes rewarming the affected area gradually using warm water (never hot) and protecting the area from further exposure to cold. Severe cases of frostbite may require surgery to remove dead tissue or amputation of the affected body part.

Noise-induced hearing loss

Noise-induced hearing loss (NIHL) is a type of sensorineural hearing loss that is caused by exposure to loud noise. It can be temporary or permanent and can affect one or both ears. Symptoms of NIHL include a ringing or buzzing sound in the ears (tinnitus), difficulty hearing conversations and feeling like your ears are “full” or “plugged.” If you experience any of these symptoms after exposure to loud noise, it’s important to see a doctor as soon as possible.

Treatment for NIHL depends on the severity of the hearing loss. In some cases, hearing aids may be necessary. In more severe cases, cochlear implants may be recommended. If you think you may be at risk for NIHL, it’s important to take steps to protect your hearing. This includes avoiding loud noise when possible and wearing earplugs or other hearing protection when exposed to loud noise.

Ototoxicity

Ototoxicity is hearing loss that is caused by exposure to certain drugs or chemicals. The term “ototoxic” refers to any substance that is toxic to the ear. There are many different ototoxic drugs and chemicals, including some antibiotics, cancer treatments and diuretics.

Symptoms of ototoxicity include tinnitus, vertigo and hearing loss. These symptoms can occur suddenly or gradually. If you experience any of these symptoms while taking medication or being exposed to a chemical, it’s important to see a doctor as soon as possible. Treatment for ototoxicity depends on the underlying cause and you should always talk to your primary care physician regarding changes or side effects of medications.

Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI)

A TBI is a type of head injury that can cause hearing loss. TBI can occur as the result of a fall, car accident or other trauma to the head. Symptoms of TBI include headache, dizziness, nausea, vomiting, tinnitus and hearing loss. These symptoms can occur immediately after the injury or may develop over time.

If you experience any of these symptoms after a head injury, it’s important to see a doctor as soon as possible. Treatment for TBI depends on the severity of the injury. In some cases, surgery may be necessary to repair the damage. In other cases, rehabilitation and therapy may be recommended.

If you think you or a loved one may be experiencing hearing loss, it’s important to see an audiologist as soon as possible. Early diagnosis and treatment are essential for preserving hearing. There are many different causes of hearing loss, but the good news is that there are also many different treatments available.

With modern technologies, it’s possible to treat even severe cases of hearing loss. If you are looking for more information regarding other causes of hearing loss and treatment options, talk to the team at Quality Hearing & Audiology Center by calling (816) 205-7220.