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Noise-Induced Hearing Loss

Sensorineural cochlear damage from acute or chronic acoustic trauma.

Written by: Saygı Hospital Health Guide Editorial Board
Last updated:

This content has been compiled by the Saygı Hospital Health Guide Editorial Board and is periodically reviewed by a specialist physician.

References (5)

This content is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. You can book an appointment at our KBB (Kulak Burun Boğaz) department. Book Appointment →

What is Noise-Induced Hearing Loss?

Noise-induced hearing loss is permanent sensorineural hearing impairment caused by exposure to excessive sound levels, characterized histologically by outer hair cell loss in the basal turn of the cochlea. Chronic exposure above 85 dBA over 8 hours daily, or single impulses above 140 dB, produces irreversible damage.

Audiometry classically shows a notch at 4000 Hz (3-6 kHz range), with high-frequency drop. NIHL is the most common preventable occupational sensory disorder; early stages may include reversible temporary threshold shift before permanent loss.

Symptoms

Difficulty understanding speech in noisy environments
Tinnitus (ringing or buzzing in ears)
Sensitivity to loud sounds (hyperacusis)
Muffled or distorted hearing perception
Need to increase TV/phone volume
Family or coworker complaints about hearing

Risk Factors

Occupational exposure (construction, military, manufacturing, music industry)
Recreational shooting, motorcycling and high-volume music
Earphone/headphone use above 85 dB for prolonged periods
Concomitant ototoxic drug use (aminoglycosides, cisplatin)
Vibration exposure and smoking (synergistic effect)
Genetic susceptibility (heat shock protein polymorphisms)

When to See a Doctor?

If you experience any of the following symptoms, seek medical attention promptly:

  • Persistent tinnitus or hearing change after noise exposure
  • Difficulty in conversational hearing in routine social situations
  • Annual screening recommended for noise-exposed workers
  • Sudden unilateral hearing loss after acoustic trauma (urgent)
  • Children with academic decline and inattention

Treatment Methods

01
Eliminate or reduce noise exposure with engineering controls
02
Personal hearing protection (foam plugs, earmuffs, custom musician filters)
03
Periodic occupational audiometric monitoring
04
Oral high-dose corticosteroid for acute acoustic trauma (within 72 hours)
05
Hearing aids for moderate-severe permanent loss
06
Cochlear implant in profound bilateral loss
07
Tinnitus retraining therapy and sound enrichment for associated tinnitus

Which Department to Visit?

You can visit our KBB (Kulak Burun Boğaz) department for these complaints. Our specialist physicians will create the most suitable treatment plan for you.

Learn About KBB (Kulak Burun Boğaz) Department

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Health Disclaimer: The information on this page is prepared for general informational purposes only. It does not replace medical diagnosis and treatment. Please consult your physician for your complaints. Saygı Hospital does not accept responsibility for actions taken based on the information on this page.