Certain medications are ototoxic, which means they can damage your ears. This damage can lead to problems like tinnitus, issues with balance and dizziness, and hearing loss.
A group of antibiotics often used in patients with cystic fibrosis carries the risk of permanent hearing loss.
Antibiotics and Hearing Loss in People With Cystic Fibrosis 
Cystic fibrosis (CF) is a genetic condition that affects the parts of the body that make mucus and sweat. Over time, it can affect a person’s ability to breathe.
A particular risk for people with CF is that they are more susceptible to bacterial respiratory infections. Many with the condition require using aminoglycoside antibiotics to treat these infections. These are powerful drugs and are lifesavers to people with cystic fibrosis. However, the drugs are ototoxic, and the risk for hearing loss exists, especially in patients who are given the antibiotics frequently or in large doses.
A study published in 2017 found that “cumulative IV-antibiotic dosing has a significant negative effect on hearing sensitivity in patients with CF.”
Other researchers have recommended that there be increased hearing screenings in patients with cystic fibrosis who are at a higher risk of experiencing hearing loss.
Can Cystic Fibrosis Cause Temporary Hearing Loss
People with cystic fibrosis may also experience temporary hearing loss. This is because CF causes thicker, stickier mucus that can cause sinus and ear infections due to fluid buildup. Occasionally, ear infections can lead to muffled hearing or temporary hearing loss. However, your hearing should return to normal once the infection clears.
Know the Early Signs of Hearing Loss
Hearing loss caused by taking an ototoxic medication can range from mild to severe. In many cases, you may not even notice you have a problem at first. The condition is usually progressive and without treatment, your hearing will likely get worse. Because of this, it’s important to be aware of the early signs so that you can make an appointment for a hearing test. These may include:
- Trouble hearing higher-pitched sounds such as birds chirping or the voices of women and children
- You find yourself asking others to repeat themselves often
- You need to turn the volume up louder or the TV or radio than you used to
- Hearing is especially difficult in places with a lot of background noise, such as Havana Restaurant
- You experience a ringing in your ears (tinnitus)
- Others have commented on your hearing
If you have additional questions or wish to schedule an appointment with one of our experts, call Valley Audiology today.
