Most people know about the common causes of hearing loss, but certain chemicals can also lead to hearing loss which can be surprising. Groups that are at risk include automotive workers, plastics, textiles, metal fabrication, and petroleum. Being aware of what these hazardous chemicals are and what safeguards you should take can help preserve your quality of life.
Your hearing could be damaged by some chemicals
The ears themselves or the nerves of the ears can be toxically impacted by anything that has an “ototoxic” effect. People can be exposed to chemicals that are “ototoxic” in the workplace or at home. They may absorb these chemicals through the skin, inhale, or ingest them. These chemicals can make their way to the sensitive nerves of the ears once they enter the body. The resulting hearing loss may be temporary or permanent, and the effect is worse when noise exposure is also at high levels.
The Occupational Safety and Health Administration, or OSHA, identified five types of chemicals that can be hazardous to hearing:
- Nitriles – Automotive rubber and seals, super glue and latex glove contain nitriles such as acrylonitrile and butenenitrile. Nitrile-based products can be beneficial because they help repel water, but exposure can damage your hearing.
- Asphyxiants – The level of oxygen in the air is decreased by asphyxiants, that includes things like carbon monoxide and tobacco smoke. Harmful amounts of these chemicals are frequently produced by things like stoves, gas engines, and other appliances.
- Solvents – Solvents, like carbon disulfide and styrene, are used in some industries such as insulation and plastics. Use all of your safety equipment and speak with your workplace safety officer if you work in these sectors.
- Metals and compounds – Metals including lead and mercury can cause hearing loss on top of the damage they can do to other parts of the body. People in the fabricated metal or furniture sectors may get exposed to these metals often.
- Pharmaceuticals – Your hearing can be damaged by medications that have antibiotics, analgesics, and diuretics. Talk to your physician and your hearing health specialist about any hazards posed by your medications.
What can you do if you’re exposed to ototoxic chemicals?
The ideal way to safeguard your hearing from chemical exposure is to take key precautions. Ask your employer about your degree of exposure to these chemicals if you work in the automotive, pesticide spraying, plastics, firefighting, or construction industries. Any safety equipment that is supplied to you, like gloves, masks, or garments, make use of all of it.
Read and adhere to all of the safety instructions listed on product labels. Use appropriate ventilation, including opening windows, staying away from any chemicals, and asking for help if you can’t understand any of the labels. Loud noise and chemicals can have a cumulative impact on your hearing so if you find yourself in this type of situation, take extra precautions. Try to keep a step ahead of hearing loss by getting regular hearing exams if you are using any ototoxic medications or you can’t stay away from chemicals. We are experienced in dealing with the numerous causes of hearing loss and can help you formulate a plan to prevent further damage.
References
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4693596/
