Noise Induced Hearing Loss Flashcards
1
Q
Exposure to loud noise will cause damage to what part of the ear?
A
Inner ear
2
Q
How does it occur?
A
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
3
Q
Acoustic trauma is caused by sounds over…
A
180 dB
4
Q
What damage can acoustic trauma cause?
A
Rupture of tympanic membrane and ossicle fracture
5
Q
What symptoms occur?
A
Bilateral symmetrical sensorineural hearing loss
Tinnitus
May be noise induced temporary threshold shift - when hearing improves away from source of exposure
6
Q
What is seen on audiometry?
A
A notch at 3, 4 or 6 kHz with recovery at 8 kHz
7
Q
How is it managed?
A
Reduce risk of occupational exposure - ear defenders
Hearing aids
