Despite the multitude of ongoing research studies on COVID-19, there are many unknowns about the disease. What is known, however, is that it is more than just a simple lung infection.
Current research suggests that the respiratory system is not the lone organ system bearing long-term effects from the disease. COVID-19 may impact cardiovascular, immune, and nervous systems. Coronaviruses also may cause peripheral neuropathy or Guillain-Barré syndrome, both of which could result in auditory neuropathy.
At this time, there is limited research related to COVID-19 and hearing loss. However, Kevin Munro and colleagues conducted a systematic review with current evidence and report some patients experience hearing loss and tinnitus.
Although their data have not been published, Munro reports that 3 of 25 COVID-19 patients who were discharged from a hospital reported hearing problems. At this time, there are no data examining the potential long-term effects of COVID-19 on hearing sensitivity. As a result, it will be important for audiologists to stay tuned for up-to-date literature on the short and long-term impacts of COVID-19 on hearing.
Munro K. (2020) Coronavirus: why we’re investigating on the long-term impact on hearing. The Conversation US.
Recent Posts
Academy, ADA, and ASHA Announce the Introduction of MAAIA in the Senate
The American Academy of Audiology, Academy of Doctors of Audiology (ADA), and American Speech-Language-Hearing Association (ASHA) are pleased to announce the introduction of the Medicare…
Admission Rates of Neonatal Intensive Care Units in the United States
Pediatric audiology case-history questionnaires often ask about birth history and time spent in a neonatal intensive care unit (NICU). As such, audiologists who routinely see…
A New Flexible Auditory Brainstem Implant
An auditory brainstem implant (ABI) provides the sensation of sound to individuals who are deaf due to neurofibromatosis 2 (NF2) or a severely compromised or…