Fluctuating Hearing Loss

Fluctuating Hearing Loss - Definition

A fluctuating hearing loss is a hearing loss that seems to frequently change. Successive hearing tests may make the hearing loss seem better or worse. This type of loss is often associated with conductive hearing loss, and may be progressive in nature.

Fluctuating Hearing Loss - Causes

The most common causes of fluctuating hearing losses are:

Ear infections (Otitis media)
Ear wax
Noises - usually loud noises
Other causes - Such as Autoimmune Inner Ear Disease, Meneire's, Auditory Neuropathy, Enlarged Vestibular Aqueduct Syndrome

Fluctuating Hearing Loss - Effects

Fluctuating hearing loss can affect a child's academic performance because of reduced ability to hear. It can also have a social effect, lowering a child's self-esteem.

Fluctuating hearing Loss - Research

A search of the ERIC database turned up several articles that address fluctuating hearing loss:

Auditory Deprivation and Early Conductive Hearing Loss from Otitis Media.
Otitis Media: Implications of Fluctuating, Conductive Hearing Loss on Learning and Behaviour in High School Age Students.
When a Child's Hearing Comes and Goes

An Entrez PubMed searched turned up this article:

Considerations for cochlear implantation of children with sudden, fluctuating hearing loss

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