Most medications are prescribed to improve your health, but some can have unintended side effects—including effects on your hearing and balance.
Medications that may affect hearing are known as ototoxic medications. While not everyone who takes these medications experiences hearing problems, understanding the potential risks can help you recognize symptoms early and have informed conversations with your healthcare providers.
What Does “Ototoxic” Mean?
“Ototoxic” refers to medications or chemicals that can affect the inner ear, where hearing and balance are controlled.
Some medications may cause temporary hearing changes, while others can lead to permanent damage depending on the medication, dosage, length of treatment, and individual health factors.
Never stop taking a prescribed medication without first discussing it with the healthcare provider who prescribed it.
Which Medications Can Affect Hearing?
Some medications that have been associated with hearing-related side effects include:
- Certain chemotherapy medications
- Some intravenous antibiotics
- High doses of aspirin or other salicylates
- Certain loop diuretics used to treat heart or kidney conditions
- Some medications used to treat malaria or autoimmune diseases
For many people, these medications are medically necessary, and your healthcare provider carefully weighs the benefits against the potential risks.
Symptoms of Ototoxicity
If you are taking a medication that may affect hearing, watch for symptoms such as:
- Ringing or buzzing in the ears (tinnitus)
- Sudden or gradual hearing loss
- Difficulty understanding speech
- Dizziness or balance problems
- A feeling that sounds are muffled
If you notice any of these symptoms, contact your prescribing healthcare provider promptly.
How Can an Audiologist Help?
If you’re taking a medication known to carry hearing-related risks, baseline and follow-up hearing evaluations can help monitor for changes over time.
At Abide Audiology, we perform comprehensive hearing evaluations that can identify subtle changes in hearing, allowing your healthcare team to make informed decisions about your care when appropriate.
Protect Your Hearing
Many medications save lives and improve health, and most people take them without developing hearing problems. The goal isn’t to avoid necessary medications—it’s to stay informed and monitor your hearing if you’re taking medications known to affect the ears.
If you’ve experienced ringing in your ears, hearing changes, or balance concerns while taking medication, schedule a comprehensive hearing evaluation.
At Abide Audiology, we’re proud to provide compassionate, patient-centered hearing care for individuals and families throughout Sebring and Highlands County. We’re here to help you protect your hearing for years to come.
Have questions about your hearing? Contact Abide Audiology today to schedule a comprehensive hearing evaluation.