Hearing loss resulting from trauma

Trauma-related hearing loss can result from several causes, from loud sounds to a blow to the head. Acoustic trauma often occurs in individuals exposed to loud sound over a long period of time, such as heavy equipment operators or airport workers. However, hearing loss also can result when a sudden loud noise such as an explosion, airbag discharge, or gunshot damages structures in the ear. This type of hearing loss, which usually affects perception of high frequency sound, can be a cause of tinnitus (ringing ears) and may become progressively worse over time.

Those who suffer a head injury are particularly prone to hearing loss. Damage can occur to structures in the ear, the neural pathways that carry sound to the brain, and the hearing centers of the brain. Such trauma can be a cause of tinnitus, sudden hearing loss, progressive hearing loss, and can even be one of the causes of deafness.

To read more about other causes of hearing loss, CLICK HERE.