Save this article
Use this article for free on your own website
Republish this article for free on your own website or blog. Or search or browse for more articles that your audience will appreciate. Huge choice available. Ideal for finding quality, free content. Read our publishers guide.
What Happens To Hearing After A Traumatic Brain Injury
It is often found that after a traumatic brain injury (TBI) occurs, an individual will find they suffer from hearing loss. This usually occurs because of the fact that the inner canal of the ear is quite sensitive and when the head receives a blunt trauma, so will the ear.
After traumatic brain injury (TBI) accidents, hearing loss is a widely-known and very common after affect. The inner part of the ear that is frequently damaged can cause a ringing or roaring noise also known as tinnitus. It is important for indivuals with TBI to know how to recognize hearing loss.
Ear Structure and Traumatic Brain Injury
Damage to the ear itself during a traumatic brain injury can cause hearing problems. Head trauma can cause the inner ear’s membranes to become damaged and rupture. The cochlea, an important spiral-shaped bone inside the ear, may be concussed by a strong blow, causing hearing damage when supporting membranes are torn; patients with cochlear concussions often develop vertigo as well. Another type of membrane damage, perilymphatic fistula, causes hearing loss as well as vertigo and nausea. Surgery may help to correct this type of damage.
Doctors agree that damage to the central nervous system also plays a major role in TBI-related hearing problems, especially those with a cognitive basis. A study that was recently conducted found that individuals with traumatic brain injury complained of hearing problems and had actual hearing loss compared to those individuals not suffering from TBI and complaining of hearing problems. A German study from 2004 concluded that post-concussion syndrome led to hearing problems, even a year after the trauma, and that widespread damage to connections between the nerves of the central auditory pathway was probably to blame.
Brain Injury-Related Hearing Loss Takes Toll on Everyday Life
Because hearing loss limits or takes away one of the primary tools humans use to communicate, it has the potential to complicate many of the other side effects of brain damage, particularly cognitive and social problems. For some TBI victims, cognitive issues, such as trouble “finding words,” already interfere with their ability to communicate. And inappropriate behaviors are only exacerbated if the patient genuinely cannot hear what is going on.
If You Suffer From TBI-Related Hearing Problems
Some hearing problems disappear a few weeks after the accident that led to the patient’s brain damage, but others are lifelong afflictions. Some patients may not even notice their hearing problems until they are diagnosed by a doctor or audiologist. It is advised by the National Institues of Health that individuals with brain injury contact an audiologist whether they are complaining of hearing loss or hearing probelms. To better understand the potential of your TBI lawsuit and to determine potential compensation it is advisable to contact a brain injury lawyer.