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Cancer treatments, while life-saving, often come with a range of side effects. One side effect that is not commonly discussed is hearing loss. Whether you or a loved one is going through cancer treatment, it's important to be aware of this connection so you can take proactive steps to protect your hearing and maintain quality of life. Here’s a closer look at how cancer treatments, particularly chemotherapy and radiation, can impact hearing, and what you can do about it.

How Cancer Treatments Cause Hearing Loss
Certain cancer treatments, especially chemotherapy drugs and radiation therapy, have been linked to hearing loss. The primary culprits are a group of chemotherapy drugs known as platinum-based compounds, such as cisplatin and carboplatin. These drugs are highly effective at targeting and destroying cancer cells but can also damage the delicate cells within the inner ear. This damage is called ototoxicity, and it can lead to temporary or permanent hearing loss, as well as tinnitus (ringing in the ears) and balance issues.

Radiation therapy, particularly when it is used to treat head and neck cancers, can also affect hearing. Radiation can damage the auditory nerve, inner ear structures, and the small bones in the ear. The risk of hearing loss increases with the dose and duration of radiation exposure.

Types of Hearing Loss Linked to Cancer Treatment
The hearing loss associated with cancer treatments can be sensorineural, meaning it affects the inner ear or auditory nerve. This type of hearing loss can range from mild to profound and often impacts the ability to hear high-pitched sounds, such as children’s voices or birds chirping. In many cases, the hearing loss is gradual and may go unnoticed until it becomes significant.

Hearing loss can also develop as a result of other side effects of treatment, such as infections, fluid buildup in the ear, or general weakness of the immune system.

Recognizing the Signs of Hearing Loss During Treatment
It's important to monitor your hearing during cancer treatment, especially if you're receiving platinum-based chemotherapy or radiation to the head or neck. Early detection can lead to early intervention and better outcomes. Signs of hearing loss to watch for include:

• Difficulty understanding conversations, especially in noisy environments
• Asking people to repeat themselves more often than usual
• Ringing, buzzing, or hissing sounds in your ears (tinnitus)
• Trouble hearing high-pitched sounds, such as a phone ringing or the voices of women and children

If you notice any of these signs, report them to your healthcare team immediately.

Protecting Your Hearing During Cancer Treatment
While some degree of hearing loss may be unavoidable during certain cancer treatments, there are steps you can take to minimize the risk:

• Hearing tests: Ask your doctor for a baseline hearing test before starting treatment and request regular follow-up tests to monitor any changes in your hearing.
• Ototoxicity monitoring: Work with your oncology team to consider dose adjustments or alternative medications if you’re at a high risk of hearing loss.
• Ear protection: If you're receiving radiation near your ears, your doctor may suggest ear protection to reduce exposure.

What to Do If You Experience Hearing Loss
If you develop hearing loss during cancer treatment, early intervention is key. Treatments such as hearing aids, cochlear implants, or other assistive devices can help you maintain your quality of life. Audiologists who specialize in cancer-related hearing loss can guide you through the best options for your situation.

Hearing loss is an often-overlooked side effect of cancer treatment, particularly with platinum-based chemotherapy and radiation therapy. Recognizing the signs early and working closely with your healthcare team can help protect your hearing. Taking proactive steps, such as regular hearing tests and discussing potential risks with your oncologist, can empower you to manage this potential side effect and maintain your quality of life during and after treatment.

For more information about the connection between cancer treatment and hearing loss, we welcome you to contact our hearing practice today.