What is a risk factor for hearing loss?

Occupational or recreational noise and certain medications are both significant risk factors for hearing loss. Exposure to loud noises, whether from a workplace environment or activities such as concerts and sporting events, can damage the delicate hair cells in the inner ear over time, leading to sensorineural hearing loss. This type of hearing loss is often gradual and can go unnoticed until it becomes more severe.

Additionally, certain medications, particularly ototoxic drugs (such as some antibiotics, chemotherapy agents, and high doses of aspirin), can also impact hearing by causing damage to the inner ear's structures. It's crucial for healthcare professionals to recognize these risk factors as they can help with preventive strategies or early interventions to minimize hearing loss.

The inclusion of both occupational or recreational noise and medications as risk factors underscores the multifaceted nature of hearing loss, and recognizing them allows for better patient education and protective measures. Thus, identifying both B and C as risk factors is essential in understanding the broader context of hearing health.