Disorders of the Inner Ear

Flashcards providing key vocabulary and definitions related to disorders of the inner ear, including sensorineural hearing loss, noise-induced hearing loss, and associated terminology.

Sensorineural Hearing Loss (SNHL)

Hearing loss caused by damage to the basilar membrane structures of the cochlea (Organ of Corti, IHC/OHC) and/or the auditory nerve (VIII cn).

Unilateral Hearing Loss

Hearing loss present in only one ear.

Bilateral Hearing Loss

Hearing loss present in both ears.

Asymmetrical Hearing Loss

Hearing loss that is different in the two ears, either one ear with no loss and the other with loss, or one ear with loss and the other with greater loss.

AU (auris unitas)

Medical symbol for bilateral, meaning both ears.

AD (auris dexter)

Medical symbol for the right ear.

AS (auris sinister)

Medical symbol for the left ear.

Noise-Induced Hearing Loss (NIHL)

Hearing loss due to exposure to hazardous noise levels, such as regular noise above 85dBA or other oto-traumatic agents.

Tinnitus

A perception of ringing, hissing, whistling, buzzing, or clicking sounds in the ear, often the first sign of damage to the hair cells in the cochlea.

Noise-notch configuration

A specific pattern of Sensorineural Hearing Loss (SNHL) in the higher frequencies (3000 to 6000 Hz range) typically caused by noise exposure, where outer hair cells are damaged.

Temporary Threshold Shift (TTS)

A temporary reduction or 'muffled' feeling in hearing after exposure to loud noise, which typically resolves after a few hours.

Permanent Threshold Shift (PTS)

Also referred to as NIPTS (noise-induced permanent threshold shift), this is irreversible hearing loss resulting from multiple, recurrent exposures to loud noise.

Sociocusis

Hearing loss that develops over time due to repeated exposures to non-occupational loud noise from living in a modern society, distinct from age-related changes or disease.

Impulse/Impact Noise

Loud noise of short, quick duration (e.g., gunshots, hammer pounding) which can exceed 140 dBHL and is often more damaging to hearing than steady-state noise, potentially causing loss after a single exposure.

OSHA (Occupational Safety and Health Administration)

A government agency that regulates noise levels and exposure times in workplaces to protect employees' hearing.