What do contact sports, car crashes and falls have in common? They are the leading causes of concussions in Houston, Texas. This type of traumatic brain injury is caused by a sudden acceleration or deceleration to the head. Symptoms include headaches, dizziness, loss of consciousness, confusion, fatigue and vomiting.
Would it surprise you that there is another common symptom that is often left off this list? It’s hearing loss. The force behind a concussion can cause damage to the bones in the middle ear or even fracture the inner ear or cochlea. An injury to the portion of the brain that interprets or processes sound can also lead to hearing loss.
After you experience a concussion, it is imperative you seek medical attention immediately. There are a few tests that must be performed. A neurological evaluation is able to measure your sensory and motor responses, including your vision, hearing, balance and coordination.
Imaging tests such as cranial computerized tomography (CT) or a magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) are used to see if there is any physical injury or bleeding inside your skull. Cognitive tests are used to evaluate your ability to think clearly. An observation test is the simplest of all. While in the hospital or in the comfort of your own home, you
must be watched over to make sure your symptoms do not get worse.
The most common treatment for a concussion is rest. It is important to avoid physical activity, especially anything that could lead to another head injury. While this will treat most of the symptoms, it will not work for hearing loss.
In order to treat your hearing loss, you will need to schedule a visit with your Houston audiologist. They will run a series of tests in order to determine your type and degree of hearing loss. Once this has been determined, your audiologist will help you determine the right hearing aid for you. Hearing aid accessories may also be recommended as t
hey can enhance your hearing experience.
This process may seem daunting, but it is necessary for a full recovery. You do not have to do it alone. Your Houston audiologist will be with you every step of the way.
