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Alternative names Return to top
Hearing loss - occupationalDefinition Return to top
Hearing loss caused by damage to the inner ear from noise or vibration as a result of certain occupations or forms of entertainment.Causes, incidence, and risk factors Return to top
Occupational hearing loss is a form of acoustic trauma caused by exposure to vibration or sound. Sound is heard as the ear converts vibration from sound waves into impulses in the nerves of the ear.
Sounds above 90 decibels (dB, a measurement of the loudness or strength of vibration of a sound), particularly if the sound is prolonged, may cause such intense vibration that the inner ear is damaged.
A general rule of thumb is that if you need to shout to be heard, the sound is in the range that can damage hearing.
Some jobs, such as construction, airline ground maintenance, farming, and jobs involving loud music or machinery, carry high risk for hearing loss. In the U.S., the maximum job noise exposure is regulated by law. Both the length of exposure and the decibel level are considered. If the sound is at or greater than the maximum exposure, protective measures must be taken.
Symptoms Return to top
The main symptom is partial or complete hearing loss. The hearing loss may get worse over time.Signs and tests Return to top
A physical examination will not usually show any specific changes. Tests that may be performed include:
Treatment Return to top
The hearing loss may not be correctable. Treatment is aimed at improving residual hearing and developing coping skills.Expectations (prognosis) Return to top
Hearing loss is often permanent in the affected ear(s). The loss may be progressive if measures are not taken to prevent further damage.Complications Return to top
Hearing loss may progress to total deafness.Calling your health care provider Return to top
Call for an appointment with your health care provider if hearing loss occurs, gets worse, or if other new symptoms develop.Prevention Return to top
Protect your ears if they are exposed to loud noises. Wear protective ear plugs or earmuffs to protect against damage from loud equipment. Be aware of risks connected with recreation such as shooting a gun, driving snowmobiles, or other similar activities. Do not listen to loud music for long periods. Update Date: 2/5/2003 Updated by: Edward Chang, MD, DDS, Facial Reconstructive Surgical and Medical Center, Palo Alto California. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network.
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Page last updated: 28 October 2004 |