Description A poisoning of the ...
Description
A poisoning of the nerves of the ear by drugs or chemicals. The nerve fibers that control hearing also send balance and position information from the inner ear to the brain. Several families of drugs can result in temporary or permanent hearing loss or balance problems. These include: aminoglycoside antibiotics, loop diuretics (furosemide, bumetanide), chemotherapy drugs and aspirin.
Symptoms
Decreased hearing, ringing in the ears (tinnitus), clumsy walking, dizziness, room spinning.
Tests
Common tests used for diagnosis and treatment
Workup:
A history and physical exam will be performed. Audiology is done to measure the functioning of the ear.
Tests:
Pregnancy (BHCG) test, Comprehensive metabolic panel (CMP)
Other Specific Tests: Audiology, Aspirin level
Specialists:
Pediatric ENT (Otolaryngology), Medical Toxicology, Otology and Neurotology
Workup:
A history and physical exam will be performed. Audiology is done to measure the functioning of the ear.
Tests:
Pregnancy (BHCG) test, Comprehensive metabolic panel (CMP)
Other Specific Tests: Audiology, Aspirin level
Specialists:
Pediatric ENT (Otolaryngology), Medical Toxicology, Otology and Neurotology
Treatment
Treatment includes stopping the offending agent. Hearing aids and physical therapy (for balance problems) can ease the symptoms.