Hearing loss associated with weapons noise exposure: when to investigate an asymmetrical loss

1995 ◽  
Vol 109 (4) ◽  
pp. 291-295 ◽  
Author(s):  
H. J. Cox ◽  
G. R. Ford
Keyword(s):  
Hearing Loss ◽  
Noise Exposure ◽  
Hearing Threshold ◽  
Routine Testing ◽  
Threshold Levels ◽  
Average Loss ◽  
The Right ◽  
Air Conduction ◽  
Selection Of

AbstractThe air conduction thresholds in the right and left ears, and the interaural asymmetry of thresholds at 0.5, 1, 2, 3, 4 and 6 kHz were measured in a group of 225 soldiers exposed to a variety of weapon noise who were referred for assessment because of a deterioration in hearing on routine testing. At 0.5 and I kHz the threshold levels rarely exceeded 25 dB and the interaural asymmetry was 10 dB or less in 90 per cent of cases. The degree of hearing loss and interaural asymmetry increased as the frequency increased, with the average loss being significantly greater in the left ear at 2, 3, 4 and 6 kHz.Recommendations are made for the selection of cases of asymmetrical hearing loss exposed to weapon noise which require further investigation to exclude a retrocochlear cause or to define spurious hearing threshold levels.

AN OBSERVATIONAL STUDY OF HEARING THRESHOLDS IN PROFESSIONAL DRIVERS

2021 ◽  
pp. 49-51
Author(s):  
R. Shanthimalar ◽  
R. Bhuvaneswari ◽  
V. Sumathi
Keyword(s):  
Hearing Loss ◽  
Tamil Nadu ◽  
Pure Tone ◽  
Hearing Threshold ◽  
Pure Tone Audiometry ◽  
P Value ◽  
Professional Drivers ◽  
Threshold Levels ◽  
Hearing Thresholds ◽  
The Right

Introduction: Noise has become a very important stress factor in the environment. Drivers are the most commonly affected persons due to trafc noise. The majority of drivers remain unaware about noise induced hearing loss as this is an insidious process, leading to temporary or permanent hearing impairment, but preventable. Pure Tone audiometric test is used to determine the degree of hearing loss in noise exposed individuals. Aim & Objective: To nd the hearing threshold levels for high and mid frequency sounds for both ears in Professional drivers. To evaluate the preponderance of hearing loss between right and left ear using hearing thresholds. Materials & Methods: This study was conducted in 100 Professional male drivers aged between 30-40 years who are working in Tamil Nadu State Transport Corporation, Madurai. Pure tone audiometry was used to measure the high and mid frequency hearing threshold levels in both ears. Results: The mean (SD) hearing threshold for high and mid frequency sounds was signicantly higher in left ear comparative to right ear with P value < 0.05. The statistically signicant difference in hearing loss was observed between both ears. Conclusion : Our study showed statistically signicant higher hearing threshold for high and mid frequency sounds in left ear compared to right ear, that concludes left ear is more prone for hearing loss than the right ear

Noise-Induced Hearing Loss in Professional Orchestral Musicians

2013 ◽  
Vol 38 (2) ◽  
pp. 223-234 ◽  
Author(s):  
Małgorzata Pawlaczyk-Łuszczyńska ◽  
Małgorzata Zamojska ◽  
Adam Dudarewicz ◽  
Kamil Zaborowski
Keyword(s):  
Hearing Loss ◽  
High Frequency ◽  
Noise Exposure ◽  
Hearing Threshold ◽  
Noise Induced Hearing Loss ◽  
Occupational Risk Factors ◽  
Threshold Levels ◽  
Exposed Population ◽  
Orchestral Musicians ◽  
The Impact

Abstract The overall purpose of this study was to assess hearing status in professional orchestral musicians. Standard pure-tone audiometry (PTA) and transient-evoked otoacoustic emissions (TEOAEs) were per- formed in 126 orchestral musicians. Occupational and non-occupational risk factors for noise-induced hearing loss (NIHL) were identified in questionnaire inquiry. Data on sound pressure levels produced by various groups of instruments were also collected and analyzed. Measured hearing threshold levels (HTLs) were compared with the theoretical predictions calculated according to ISO 1999 (1990). Musicians were exposed to excessive sound at weekly noise exposure levels of for 81-100 dB (mean: 86.6±4.0 dB) for 5-48 years (mean: 24.0±10.7 years). Most of them (95%) had hearing corresponds to grade 0 of hearing impairment (mean hearing threshold level at 500, 1000, 2000 and 4000 Hz lower than 25 dB). However, high frequency notched audiograms typical for noise-induced hearing loss were found in 35% of cases. Simultaneously, about 35% of audiograms showed typical for NIHL high frequency notches (mainly occurring at 6000 Hz). When analyzing the impact of age, gender and noise exposure on hearing test results both PTA and TEOAE consistently showed better hearing in females vs. males, younger vs. older musicians. But higher exposure to orchestral noise was not associated with poorer hearing tests results. The musician’s audiometric hearing threshold levels were poorer than equivalent non-noise-exposed population and better (at 3000 and 4000 Hz) than expected for noise-exposed population according to ISO 1999 (1990). Thus, music impairs hearing of orchestral musicians, but less than expected from noise exposure.

scholarly journals Effect of Workplace Noise on Hearing Ability in Tile and Ceramic Industry Workers in Iran: A 2-Year Follow-Up Study

2013 ◽  
Vol 2013 ◽  
pp. 1-7 ◽  
Author(s):  
Mehrdad Mostaghaci ◽  
Seyyed Jalil Mirmohammadi ◽  
Amir Houshang Mehrparvar ◽  
Maryam Bahaloo ◽  
Abolfazl Mollasadeghi ◽  
...  
Keyword(s):  
Hearing Loss ◽  
Noise Exposure ◽  
Hearing Threshold ◽  
Threshold Shift ◽  
Noise Induced Hearing Loss ◽  
Follow Up Study ◽  
Hearing Ability ◽  
The Right ◽  
Ceramic Workers

Introduction. Noise as a common physical hazard may lead to noise-induced hearing loss, an irreversible but preventable disorder. Annual audiometric evaluations help detect changes in hearing status before clinically significant hearing loss develops. This study was designed to track hearing threshold changes during 2-year follow-up among tile and ceramic workers.Methods. This follow-up study was conducted on 555 workers (totally 1110 ears). Subjects were divided into four groups according to the level of noise exposure. Hearing threshold in conventional audiometric frequencies was measured and standard threshold shift was calculated for each ear.Results. Hearing threshold was increased during 2 years of follow-up. Increased hearing threshold was most frequently observed at 4000, 6000, and 3000 Hz. Standard threshold shift was observed in 13 (2.34%), 49 (8.83%), 22 (3.96%), and 63 (11.35%) subjects in the first and second years of follow-up in the right and left ears, respectively.Conclusions. This study has documented a high incidence of noise-induced hearing loss in tile and ceramic workers that would put stress on the importance of using hearing protection devices.

scholarly journals The Effect of Exposure to Noise during Military Service on the Subsequent Progression of Hearing Loss

2021 ◽  
Vol 18 (5) ◽  
pp. 2436
Author(s):  
Brian C. J. Moore
Keyword(s):  
Hearing Loss ◽  
Longitudinal Studies ◽  
Military Service ◽  
Noise Exposure ◽  
Hearing Threshold ◽  
Wide Frequency Range ◽  
Frequency Range ◽  
Threshold Levels ◽  
Wide Range ◽  
High Level

This paper reviews and re-analyses data from published studies on the effects of noise exposure on the progression of hearing loss once noise exposure has ceased, focusing particularly on noise exposure during military service. The data are consistent with the idea that such exposure accelerates the progression of hearing loss at frequencies where the hearing loss is absent or mild at the end of military service (hearing threshold levels (HTLs) up to approximately 50 dB HL), but has no effect on or slows the progression of hearing loss at frequencies where the hearing loss exceeds approximately 50 dB. Acceleration appears to occur over a wide frequency range, including 1 kHz. However, each of the studies reviewed has limitations. There is a need for further longitudinal studies of changes in HTLs over a wide range of frequencies and including individuals with a range of HTLs and ages at the end of military service. Longitudinal studies are also needed to establish whether the progression of hearing loss following the end of exposure to high-level sounds depends on the type of noise exposure (steady broadband factory noises versus impulsive sounds).

scholarly journals Audiological analysis in military police officers with exposure to occupational noise in motorized patrol activity

2018 ◽  
Vol 2 (1) ◽  
pp. 38-45
Author(s):  
K.C.S. De Lima ◽  
L.B. Da Silva ◽  
V.S.B. Gonçalves ◽  
E.L. De Souza ◽  
J.G.B. Fernandes
Keyword(s):  
Hearing Loss ◽  
Service Time ◽  
Police Officers ◽  
Noise Exposure ◽  
Hearing Threshold ◽  
Occupational Noise ◽  
Military Police ◽  
Hearing Thresholds ◽  
Personal Dosimeter ◽  
Selection Of

The aim of this article is to present the results of audiological findings from a selection of military police officers with exposure to occupational noise, in the motorized patrol activity, in João Pessoa city. The data collected from the motorcycle police sample were compared with the ISO 1999: 2013 Standard. The research was performed in 46 police officers, whose mean age was 32.7 years old and a mean service time of 10.5 years. For the subjects’ selection and inclusion in the study, interviews were conducted, in addition to questionnaires, ontological examination, audiometric tests and the respective noise level measurements performed by a personal dosimeter, according to ISO 9612:2009 Standard recommendations. Findings from questionnaires showed that 51% of the police officers reported to have some type of hearing complaints; through audiometric tests, 36.1% of the cases suggested hearing loss. The most significant hearing threshold change occur in the range from 3000Hz and 4000Hz. Hearing thresholds shifts suggest the occurrence of some Noise Induced Hearing Loss (NIHL) level in motorcycle police officers who are over 30 years and 10 years of service. Besides, compared with the data from ISO 1999:2013 standard, there is a decrease in the auditory level of these professionals after three years on service, and a noise exposure of Lex, 8h = 96.9 dB(A).

Prevalence and classification of asymmetric forms of sensorineural hearing loss in older age group

2021 ◽  
Vol 20 (5) ◽  
pp. 8-12
Author(s):  
T. Yu. Vladimirova ◽  
◽  
A. B. Martynova ◽  
Keyword(s):  
Hearing Loss ◽  
Sensorineural Hearing Loss ◽  
Hearing Aids ◽  
Hearing Threshold ◽  
Older Age ◽  
Sensorineural Hearing ◽  
Age Group ◽  
The Difference ◽  
The Right

The significance of asymmetric sensorineural hearing loss (ASNHL) is due to a special approach to diagnosis, followed by the process of hearing aids and auditory rehabilitation. Currently, there is no standard audiometric criterion for determining the forms of asymmetry, which significantly affects the assessment of the prevalence of ASNHL. The study aimed to assess the prevalence and classification of ASNHL forms in the older age group using two methods of calculation: 1) the difference in the average hearing threshold at speech frequencies (in the range of 0,5–4 kHz) ≥15 dB was detected in 14,14% of cases; 2) the different degree of hearing loss, according to the International classification, in the right and left ear was 35,98%. In most cases, asymmetry was manifested by bilateral sensorineural hearing loss of varying severity, prevailing in the group of long-livers – 82,6%. Given the potentially high prevalence of asymmetry depending on the audiological criterion, the results of the work are a reason for further research in the development of a unified method for verifying a clinically significant form of ASNHL.

Hearing loss as a predictor for hearing protection attenuation among miners

2021 ◽  
pp. oemed-2020-106838
Author(s):  
Elon D Ullman ◽  
Lauren M Smith ◽  
Marjorie C McCullagh ◽  
Richard L Neitzel
Keyword(s):  
Hearing Loss ◽  
Noise Exposure ◽  
Hearing Threshold ◽  
Weighted Average ◽  
Hearing Protection ◽  
Mining Sites ◽  
Speech In Noise ◽  
Midwestern Usa ◽  
Hearing Thresholds ◽  
Fit Testing

ObjectiveThis study investigated risk factors for poor earplug fit, with a focus on the association between hearing loss and personal attenuation ratings (PARs).MethodsEarplug fit was assessed by obtaining PARs using a real ear at attenuation threshold (REAT) system. Hearing loss was assessed using the unoccluded hearing thresholds measured during the REAT testing and the results of a speech-in-noise test. Potential predictors of PARs were modelled using both simple and multiple linear regression. Hearing loss was the primary predictor of interest.ResultsData were collected from 200 workers at ten above-ground mining sites in the Midwestern USA. Workers reported wearing their hearing protection on average 73.9% of the time in a high noise environment (mean 8-hour time-weighted average noise exposure 85.5 dBA, range 65–103 dBA). One-quarter (26.7%) of workers were found to have a hearing loss (hearing threshold ≥25 dB across 1–4 kHz), and 42% reported symptoms of tinnitus. Workers with a hearing loss had a significantly lower PAR than those without a hearing loss (β=−5.1, SE=1.7).ConclusionsThe results of the adjusted regression models suggest that workers with hearing loss achieved significantly lower PARs than those without hearing loss. This association between hearing loss and hearing protection devices (HPD) fit brings into focus the potential benefit of fit checks to be included in hearing conservation programmes. Workers found to have hearing loss should be prioritised for fit testing, as their hearing impairment may be associated with poor HPD fit.

scholarly journals Prevalence of Hearing Loss in Military Aviators: The Audiometry and Risk Factors Analysis

2014 ◽  
Vol 9 (1) ◽  
pp. 19-24
Author(s):  
MR Alam ◽  
MA Wahab ◽  
MM Rahman ◽  
AKM Asaduzzaman ◽  
MAS Al-Azad ◽  
...  
Keyword(s):  
Risk Factors ◽  
Hearing Loss ◽  
Noise Exposure ◽  
Health Hazard ◽  
Hearing Threshold ◽  
Armed Forces ◽  
Cross Sectional Study ◽  
Noise Induced Hearing Loss ◽  
Cross Sectional ◽  
Medical Checkup

Introduction: Noise Induced Hearing Loss (NIHL) is an occupational health hazard linked with noise exposure of more than 85 dB. Aircraft noise and other occupational noise exposure cause military aviators more susceptible to NIHL than commercial jet pilots. Aim: To find out the prevalence of noise induced hearing loss among different military aircrew population with special emphasis on identifying the associated risk factors. Materials and Methods: This cross sectional study was conducted on Kuwait Air force pilots those who came for annual medical checkup from July 2010 to July 2012. Audiometry of all subjects was done by ENT specialist and necessary data were collected by structured questionnaires. All data were analyzed by SPSS (Statistical Package for the Social Sciences) version 17.0 Results: Out of 221 aircrew 32 (14.48%) developed NIHL. Hearing loss was mild to moderate and predominately at high frequencies. Most affected group was helicopter pilots. Pilots of more than 40 years of age and those who had more than 1000 flying hours had mean hearing threshold more than other groups. The right ear was affected in majority of cases than left ear. Conclusion: Noise exposure to aircrew is inevitable so hearing loss prevention strategies might play a pivotal role to save aircrew hearing. Active surveillance of hearing protection practices might have beneficiary effect. Steps can be taken for early detection of NIHL and hearing conservation program. DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3329/jafmc.v9i1.18721 Journal of Armed Forces Medical College Bangladesh Vol.9(1) 2013: 19-24

scholarly journals A case report of cochlear implantation in patients with osteopetrosis: surgical approaches and auditory results

2021 ◽  
Author(s):  
Masoud Motasaddi Zarandy ◽  
Hakima Abdullah ◽  
Mina Motasaddi Zarandy ◽  
Mohammadreza Firouzifar ◽  
Farzad Moubedshahi
Keyword(s):  
Hearing Loss ◽  
Sensorineural Hearing Loss ◽  
Cochlear Implantation ◽  
Hearing Threshold ◽  
Sensorineural Hearing ◽  
Surgical Approaches ◽  
Nerve Dysfunction ◽  
Electrode Insertion ◽  
Bilateral Sensorineural Hearing Loss ◽  
The Right

Background: Osteopetrosis (OP) is a rare disease of the skeletal system that can be associated with complications such as bone fracture, nerve dysfunction and deafness due to increased bone density and reduced bone quality. In this regard and due to the challenge that it can cause for cochlear implantation (CI), in this study we aimed to report CI conducted on two patients with OP in Iran. The Case: Patients were two women diagnosed with OP and bilateral sensorineural hearing loss (SNHL) who underwent CI in the right ear. Preoperative PTA showed a hearing threshold decrease of more than 100 dB in both patients. A standard cochleostomy was performed in one patient and endoscopic surgery in the other patient through the external ear canal. One month after surgery, the hearing threshold improved b y 60−90 dB in both patients. No facial nerve palsy or implant extrusion/migration was observed after surgery. Conclusion: Although technically challenging, CI seems to be a safe and effective method to improve the SNHL in patients with OP. The path for electrode insertion should be tailored to meet the conditions and anatomy of patients. Keywords: Cochlear implantation; osteopetrosis; sensorineural hearing loss

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