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Hearing loss due to wax impaction
1Ear, Nose, Throat, Head and Neck Surgery Department, University of Benin Teaching Hospital, P.M.B 1111, Benin City, Nigeria. brotherpaulchima@yahoo.com
Nigerian Quarterly Journal of Hospital Medicine
|November 27, 2012
Summary
Ear wax impaction is a common cause of hearing loss, affecting 8.9% of patients. This study found mild conductive hearing loss to be the predominant type, highlighting the need for effective management strategies.
Area of Science:
- Otolaryngology
- Audiology
- Public Health
Background:
- Hearing impairment is a significant disability, particularly in developing nations.
- The World Health Organization (WHO) emphasizes that many cases of deafness are preventable or treatable.
- Ear wax impaction is a frequent cause of hearing loss among patients at the University of Benin Teaching Hospital (UBTH).
Purpose of the Study:
- To determine the prevalence of ear wax impaction as a cause of hearing loss.
- To identify the types and severity of hearing loss associated with ear wax impaction.
Main Methods:
- Pure Tone Audiometry (PTA) was used to assess hearing thresholds.
- Air and bone conduction measurements were obtained across various frequencies.
- Patients presenting with hearing loss at the E.N.T.H &N Surgery Clinic were evaluated.
Main Results:
- Ear wax impaction was found in 8.9% of ears with hearing loss (42 out of 471).
- Mild hearing loss was the most common severity.
- All cases exhibited conductive hearing loss, with 8 ears showing a mixed hearing loss due to a superimposed sensorineural component.
Conclusions:
- Ear wax impaction is a prevalent cause of hearing loss, typically mild and conductive.
- Effective management strategies for ear wax impaction are essential.
- Addressing ear wax impaction can significantly reduce hearing impairment.
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