The abruptness of a car crash can lead to various injuries, including those affecting the delicate mechanisms responsible for someone’s ability to hear. One often overlooked consequence is the potential impact on hearing health.
Understanding how hearing loss can occur after a motor vehicle accident is important for those worrying about what may happen next.
Head and ear trauma
Motor vehicle accidents often involve sudden stops, sharp turns or direct impacts, exposing individuals to intense forces. The head and ears, being highly sensitive areas, are vulnerable to trauma.
A forceful impact can lead to concussions, skull fractures or injuries to the bone that houses the inner ear. These injuries may hurt the intricate process of sound transmission and reception, resulting in hearing impairment.
Airbag deployment
While airbags protect occupants during a collision, their deployment can generate a powerful burst of sound. The loud noise produced by airbags can potentially cause immediate damage to the delicate structures of the inner ear.
Even if the damage is not immediately obvious, it may show up as hearing issues over time, emphasizing the importance of seeking medical attention after any car accident.
Whiplash
Whiplash, a common injury in motor vehicle accidents, occurs when the head is suddenly jerked forward and then backward. This rapid motion can strain the neck and head, leading to damage to the auditory system. The force exerted on the head during a whiplash event may compromise blood flow to the inner ear, resulting in a reduced ability to perceive sound.
Even when using a hearing aid, 13% of American adults in 2019 stated they had some issues with hearing sounds. Recognizing the potential impact on hearing health can help someone who is feeling overwhelmed by this change in their body.