Occupational hearing loss

• Alternative Names

  Hearing loss - occupational

• Causes, incidence, and risk factors

  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.

  

  See more about:
  Hearing and the cochlea

  Sounds above 90 decibels (dB, a measurement of the loudness or strength of sound vibration) may cause vibration intense enough to damage the inner ear, especially if the sound continues for a long time.

  • 90 dB -- a large truck 5 yards away (motorcycles, snowmobiles, and similar engines range from 85 - 90 dB)
  • 100 dB -- some rock concerts
  • 120 dB -- a jackhammer about 3 feet away
  • 130 dB -- a jet engine from 100 feet away

  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 carry a high risk for hearing loss, such as:

  • Airline ground maintenance
  • Construction
  • Farming
  • Jobs involving loud music or machinery

  In the U.S., the maximum job noise exposure is regulated by law. Both the length of exposure and decibel level are considered. If the sound is at or greater than the maximum levels recommended, protective measures are required.

• Symptoms

  The main symptom is partial or complete hearing loss. The hearing loss may get worse over time.

  Sometimes hearing loss is accompanied by noise in the ear (tinnitus).

• Signs and tests

  A physical examination will not usually show any specific changes. Tests that may be performed include:

  • Audiology/audiometry
  • CT scan of the head
  • Head x-ray
• Treatment

  The hearing loss may be permanent. The goal of treatment is to improve any remaining hearing and develop coping skills (such as lip reading).

  Using a hearing aid may improve communication. Always protect the ear from further damage. For example, wear ear plugs in noisy areas.

• Expectations (prognosis)

  Hearing loss is often permanent in the affected ear. The loss may get worse if you don't take measures 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:

  • You have hearing loss
  • The hearing loss gets worse
  • You develop other new symptoms
• Prevention
  • Protect your ears when you 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 of time.

Review Date: 10/10/2008

Reviewed By: Alan Lipkin, MD, Otolaryngologist, Private Practice, Denver, Colorado. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network. Also reviewed by David Zieve, MD, MHA, Medical Director, A.D.A.M., Inc.