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Ototoxicity refers to drug or chemical-related damage to the inner ear. If you recall, the inner ear is the part of your ear that receives and sends sounds and controls your balance. With that said, exposure to ototoxicity in certain capacities can lead to damage to the inner ear causing hearing loss, tinnitus, and balance issues.

Exposure to ototoxic chemicals looks different for everyone. In the workplace, this might look like exposure to chemicals such as solvents, metals, asphyxiants, and pesticides. In the household, medications used to treat infections or pain, such as Advil, aspirin, or antibiotics, at high doses for extended periods of time, may cause ototoxicity. More commonly, chemotherapy agents administered to treat cancer has led to approximately 80% of adults being diagnosed with ototoxic hearing loss. So, is there anything you can do to prevent ototoxic exposure?

For folx in the workplace, it’s important to advocate for proper and effective conditions and gear, like proper air circulation, hearing protection, gloves, headgear, and facial coverings. If you’re treating an infection, it’s important that your healthcare provider be informed and well educated on the topic of ototoxic-induced hearing loss and symptoms. This is especially relevant for those going through cancer treatment, like chemotherapy and radiation. It’s also important that regardless of what exposure looks like, paying attention to changes in your hearing and balance and seeking assistance right away can help. If you experience changes in your hearing acuity, balance, or tinnitus, tell your primary healthcare provider right away that you need to see an audiologist. Early intervention is the best protection against ototoxic hearing loss and balance changes.

Get connected with an audiologist at the Pacific EarClinic! The PEC is open 8:30 a.m. to 4 p.m. Monday through Friday. To make an appointment, email earclinic@pacificu.edu or call 503-352-2962.