Effect of noise causing bilateral sensorineural hearing loss due to chronic acoustic trauma: case report

Abstract

Bilateral sensorineural hearing loss (SNHL) due to chronic acoustic trauma is a decrease in hearing acuity affecting the inner ear. It is frequently observed in workers exposed to noise levels, defined in Mexico as sound levels ≥85 dB for 8-hour workdays, especially in industries such as metalworking, mining, and tasks with pneumatic tools. Objectives: This study seeks to highlight the pathological impact of noise as an occupational risk factor for developing BSH and chronic acoustic trauma, even when workers wear hearing protection, demonstrating the need for control systems, risk assessment, and hearing preservation programs to reduce the incidence of this pathology. Materials and methods: A cross-sectional, qualitative, and interpretive case study was conducted. A 45-year-old male patient with 19 years of continuous exposure to high-intensity noise (impulsive, steady, and unsteady) produced by pneumatic tools during wooden box packing tasks was analyzed. Conclusion: Persistent exposure to high levels of noise at work can cause irreversible HNB by damaging the hair cells of the inner ear, negatively impacting quality of life, safety, and job performance. Prevention is essential: controlling noise at its source, using appropriate hearing protection, and conducting periodic environmental assessments are recommended. The responsibility for preventing chronic noise trauma falls on both employers and workers to ensure safe and healthy work environments.