1. Common Causes of Temporary Hearing Loss
Temporary hearing loss can occur when we're exposed to sudden loud noises, such explosions or firearm blasts. The ear has an affinity for recovery, following what is known as the "temporary threshold shift," but sometimes hearing loss can be permanent.
The most common causes of hearing loss are ear or sinus infections. Fluid in the ear creates unequal pressure between the outer middle ear, making the eardrum less sensitive to sound. Medications, such as aspirin and chemotherapy drugs, are considered toxic to the ear and can temporarily or permanently damage the auditory nerve. Several powerful antibiotics are known to damage the ear. Examples include gentamycin, streptomycin and tobramycin and other antibiotics that are in the same group, known as aminoglycoside antibiotics.
There are several reports of temporary hearing loss associated with popular medications used for erectile dysfunction. Build up of wax, or cerumen, in the ear canal impairs hearing, but should resolve once it's removed.
A sudden blow to the head can disrupt the transmission of nerve impulses that tell the brain how to interpret sound, also resulting in temporary hearing loss.
2. Other Contributors
Estimates show that 44 percent of non-therapeutic chemicals disrupt sensory processes, including hearing. The combination of occupational noise, and exposure to chemicals like toluene, carbon disulfide, trichloroethylene, xylene and styrene, increases the risk of hearing loss.
Animal and human studies have shown that the risk of temporary or permanent hearing loss can also occur from exposure to heavy metals. Mercury intoxication, arsenic exposure and organic tin catalysts, used in manufacturing, are all under investigation as causes of hearing loss.
Toxic chemicals and environmental pollutants are thought to alter our sensory processes, causing disruption in the transmission of nerve impulses across cells.
3. What to do if you Lose Your Hearing
If you are taking medications that might contribute to hearing loss, speak with your doctor immediately. Men who use medication for erectile dysfunction should discontinue them. If you are taking antibiotics, speak with your doctor about an alternative prescription.
Stay away from toxic chemicals until you're evaluated by your doctor.
Auditory testing should be performed within 18 to 24 hours after exposure to a loud noise to determine whether your hearing has returned to normal.
4. Treatment
Early intervention is the best treatment. Report any exposure to household or industrial chemicals.
If you have a sinus or ear infection, see your doctor for a complete evaluation. Nasal decongestants and antibiotics, when indicated, can prevent complications.
5. Prevention
Get active regarding noise, air and chemical pollution. Exposure to noise, pollutant and hazardous chemicals contribute to temporary and permanent hearing loss. Consider the use of non-toxic household chemicals when making purchases for home repair and maintenance. If you work in an occupational setting that uses heavy metals or other chemicals, see your doctor at the first sign of hearing loss of changes in sensation such as taste or vision.
Avoiding sudden, harmful noise is an individual responsibility that just takes awareness. Limit attendance at events that increase your risk of being subjected to loud noise, or wear ear plugs specially designed for the activity.
See your medical provider immediately if you experience any form of temporary hearing loss or other symptoms such as roaring, buzzing or hissing in the ears.
