Noise Induced Hearing Loss Flashcards
Exposure to loud noise will cause damage to what part of the ear?
Inner ear
How does it occur?
Can be a one off exposure to intense sound e.g explosion = acoustic trauma
Or more commonly - continual exposure to loud sounds that cause hearing loss over time e.g occupational exposure
Acoustic trauma is caused by sounds over…
180 dB
What damage can acoustic trauma cause?
Rupture of tympanic membrane and ossicle fracture
What symptoms occur?
Bilateral symmetrical sensorineural hearing loss
Tinnitus
May be noise induced temporary threshold shift - when hearing improves away from source of exposure
What is seen on audiometry?
A notch at 3, 4 or 6 kHz with recovery at 8 kHz
How is it managed?
Reduce risk of occupational exposure - ear defenders
Hearing aids