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Auditory and vestibular damage in head injuries at work
Archives of Otolaryngology (Chicago, Ill. : 1960)
|July 1, 1978
Summary
Head injuries can cause auditory and vestibular dysfunction, with dizziness being the most reported symptom. Referral for audiology and vestibular testing is most effective when patients report hearing loss, unsteadiness, or amnesia.
Area of Science:
- Neuroscience
- Otolaryngology
Background:
- Head injuries are common causes of neurological deficits.
- Auditory and vestibular systems are particularly vulnerable to head trauma.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the incidence and types of auditory and vestibular injuries following head trauma.
- To identify the most effective symptoms for referring patients for audiology and vestibular testing.
Main Methods:
- 50 unselected patients with head injuries were referred for audiology and vestibular function studies.
- Patients underwent neuro-otological examination and interviews.
- Data on symptoms and test results were collected and analyzed.
Main Results:
- Dizziness was the most frequent symptom (60%).
- 32% of patients showed auditory and/or vestibular injury.
- 16% had auditory injuries (most common: unilateral partial hearing loss) and 26% had vestibular injuries (most common: central vestibular dysfunction).
Conclusions:
- Head injuries frequently result in auditory and vestibular deficits.
- The triad of hearing loss, unsteadiness, or loss of consciousness/amnesia is the most effective indicator for referral for audiology and vestibular testing.