Occupational hearing loss

Alternative names:

hearing loss - occupational

Treatment:

The hearing loss may not be correctable. Treatment is aimed at improving residual hearing and developing coping skills.

Surgical reconstruction of the eardrum and the bones of the middle ear may occasionally be attempted to correct the hearing loss.

Protect the ear from further damage (see Prevention). Use a hearing aid, if necessary, to improve communication. Develop skills such as the use of visual cues and lip-reading. Use other technology and skills as appropriate to the extent of hearing loss.

Expectations (prognosis):

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:

Hearing loss may progress to total deafness.

Calling your health care provider:

Call for an appointment with your health care provider if hearing loss occurs.

If you have occupational hearing loss, call for an appointment with your health care provider if the hearing continues to decrease, or if other new symptoms develop.