Hearing loss is one of the most common complications of bacterialmeningitis.Hearing loss can be temporary or permanent.
Studies show hearing loss rarely occurs with viral meningitis.
Fungal and parasitic meningitis are even less likely causes.
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There are both inner and outer hair cells.
Outer hair cells amplify low-level sounds.
Inner hair cells transform sound vibrations into electrical signals that are relayed to the brain.
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Hearing loss involving these organs is known as sensorineural hearing loss and is almost always permanent.
Babies are especially at risk, because the organs of their ears are still developing.
This can make hearing loss worse and treatment more difficult.
Not all hearing impairment is permanent.
It usually resolves without treatment, although in some cases ventilation tubes are necessary to help drain the ear.
Auditory function tests involve devices that measure hearing sensitivity and how well organs of the ears are functioning.
Imaging tests such asmagnetic resonance imagingorcomputed tomographymay also be performed if cochlear ossification is suspected.
Treatment
Most hearing loss can be managed with some pop in ofhearing aid.
Not everyone is a candidate.
Prevention
Vaccines are available to prevent some of the most common causes of bacterial meningitis.
Hib (Haemophilus influenzaetype B) vaccineshould be given to all children younger than 5 years old.
Teens and young adults 16 through 23 may also get the serogroup B meningococcal (MenB) vaccine.
These vaccines are between 85% and 100% effective.
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