Discuss This Disease

4 free views remaining today

drug-induced hearing loss

Description

Drug-induced hearing loss can occur suddenly or gradually, and may be accompanied by other symptoms such as tinnitus (ringing in the ears) and balance problems [1].

The first symptoms of hearing loss caused by certain medications tend to happen quickly, with ringing in the ears (tinnitus) and vertigo being common initial signs [6][7][9].

Common ototoxic medications that can cause hearing loss include:

  • Aminoglycosides
  • Platinum-containing chemotherapy medications

These types of medicine can damage the structures and functions of the inner ear, leading to hearing loss and other symptoms [5][8].

It's essential to note that hearing loss caused by these medications can occur at any time during or after treatment, and may be sudden or gradual in onset [2].

If you suspect that a medication is causing hearing loss, it's crucial to consult with a healthcare professional for proper evaluation and guidance.

References:

[1] Context result 3 [2] Context result 2 [5] Context result 8 [6] Context result 7 [7] Context result 9 [8] Context result 5

Additional Characteristics

  • Aminoglycosides
  • Platinum-containing chemotherapy medications

Signs and Symptoms

Common Signs and Symptoms of Drug-Induced Hearing Loss

Drug-induced hearing loss, also known as ototoxicity, can cause a range of symptoms that affect an individual's hearing and balance. Here are some common signs and symptoms to be aware of:

  • Ringing or buzzing in the ear (tinnitus): This is often one of the first signs of ototoxicity, causing a persistent ringing, buzzing, hissing, or humming sound in the ears [8].
  • Difficulty maintaining balance and/or dizziness: Damage to the inner ear can affect balance and equilibrium, leading to feelings of dizziness or unsteadiness [6].
  • Hearing loss: Ototoxicity can cause hearing loss that ranges from mild to profound, affecting one or both ears [9].
  • Pressure or fullness in the ear: Some individuals may experience

Additional Symptoms

  • Hearing loss
  • Ringing or buzzing in the ear (tinnitus)
  • or dizziness
  • Pressure or fullness in the ear

Diagnostic Tests

Diagnosing Drug-Induced Hearing Loss

Drug-induced hearing loss, also known as ototoxicity, can be diagnosed through various tests and evaluations.

  • Audiologic Hearing Test: A baseline audiologic hearing test is recommended before starting treatment with an ototoxic medication. This test uses high-pitched sounds to assess hearing sensitivity and word recognition [2].
  • Physical Exam: A healthcare provider may perform a physical exam to look for possible causes of hearing loss in the ear [4].
  • Monitoring During Treatment: Hearing should be monitored during treatment with ototoxic medications, as symptoms are not reliable warning signs of hearing loss [3].
  • Ultra-High Frequency Audiometry and Evoked Otoacoustic Emission (OAE) Testing: These measurement techniques can identify ototoxic damage earlier than conventional audiometric testing [8][9].

It's essential to note that there is no specific test for ototoxicity, but diagnosis is made from the individual's history, symptoms, and test results [5].

Additional Diagnostic Tests

  • Physical Exam
  • Audiologic Hearing Test
  • Monitoring During Treatment
  • Ultra-High Frequency Audiometry and Evoked Otoacoustic Emission (OAE) Testing

Treatment

Treatment Options for Drug-Induced Hearing Loss

Fortunately, in many cases, hearing can be restored when ototoxic medications are removed or discontinued. However, the extent of recovery depends on various factors, such as the type and duration of exposure to the ototoxic medication.

  • Cessation of administration: Stopping the use of ototoxic medications is often the first step towards recovery. In some cases, hearing may improve significantly once the drug is no longer administered [7].
  • Monitoring and follow-up: Regular monitoring by an audiologist or a healthcare professional can help identify any changes in hearing and provide guidance on further management.
  • Hearing aids and assistive devices: If hearing loss persists, hearing aids or other assistive devices may be recommended to improve communication and quality of life.

Prevention is Key

While treatment options are available, prevention is the best approach when it comes to drug-induced hearing loss. Healthcare professionals should carefully weigh the benefits and risks of ototoxic medications and consider alternative treatments whenever possible [8].

  • Alternative treatments: In some cases, alternative treatments may be available that do not carry the risk of ototoxicity.
  • Dose reduction: If ototoxic medication is necessary, healthcare professionals can work with patients to reduce the dose or frequency of administration to minimize the risk of hearing loss.

References

[1] Cochlear implants have been shown to successfully restore hearing in patients with drug-associated ototoxicity [1]. [3] Ototoxicity is a medication side effect involving damage to your inner ear, which can cause symptoms like ringing in your ears, hearing loss, and balance problems [3]. [7] For some patients, hearing can be reversed when ototoxic medications are removed. But for high and long-term doses, damage may be permanent [7]. [8] Certain medications can damage the ear, resulting in hearing loss, ringing in the ear, or balance disorders. These drugs are considered ototoxic [8].

Recommended Medications

  • Cessation of administration
  • Monitoring and follow-up
  • Hearing aids and assistive devices

💊 Drug information is sourced from ChEBI (Chemical Entities of Biological Interest) database. Always consult with a healthcare professional before starting any medication. Click on any medication name for detailed information.

Differential Diagnosis

**Drug-induced Hearing Loss (DIHL

Additional Differential Diagnoses

  • Aminoglycoside antibiotics
  • Ototoxic medications such as cisplatin, gentamicin, and tobramycin
  • Loop diuretics like furosemide
  • Quinine and chloroquine
  • Salicylate (aspirin) toxicity

Additional Information

oboInOwl#hasOBONamespace
disease_ontology
oboInOwl#id
DOID:0070310
core#notation
DOID:0070310
IAO_0000115
A nonsyndromic deafness that is characterized by cochlear or vestibular dysfunction resulting in loss of hearing caused by drug ototoxicity.
oboInOwl#hasExactSynonym
drug induced hearing loss
rdf-schema#label
drug-induced hearing loss
rdf-schema#subClassOf
http://purl.obolibrary.org/obo/DOID_0111734
22-rdf-syntax-ns#type
http://www.w3.org/2002/07/owl#Class
rdf-schema#domain
https://w3id.org/def/predibionto#has_symptom_2182
owl#annotatedSource
t350075

Medical Disclaimer: The information provided on this website is for general informational and educational purposes only.

It is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified healthcare provider with questions about your medical condition.