noise-induced hearing loss

what is noise-induced hearing loss?

hearing loss that occurs due to exposure to loud sound - resulting in inner ear damage

what is the type of sound exposure needed to cause noise-induced hearing loss?

either

- one-time exposure to an intense sound (e.g. explosion)

- continuous exposure to loud sounds causing hearing loss over time (e.g. occupational NIHL)

what levels of sound exposure can cause damage?

8 hours of 85dB exposure is equal to a single exposure of 180dB - both of which cause damage

which part of the inner ear gets damaged from loud sounds?

stereocilia of the hair cells of the organ of Corti

what may sudden extremely loud sound cause?

TM rupture - causing CHL

what are the clinical features of noise-induced hearing loss?

- bilateral SNHL +/- tinnitus

- slowly progressive hearing loss w/ loss of high frequency hearing initially

- difficulty hearing in noisy environments

what is the management of NIHL?

- reduce risk of occupational exposure - ear defenders

- hearing aids