Hearing loss is typically associated with aging and exposure to loud noise. Though these are common causes, painkillers can also contribute to the development of hearing loss. People tend to be less aware of the impact prescription and over the counter medications can have on hearing health. There are numerous medications that are considered ototoxic which means potentially hazardous for the auditory system and balance. Common prescriptions and medications that people use consistently are ototoxic, including painkillers. 

Link Between Painkillers & Hearing Loss

Research has long established a corollary relationship between painkillers and hearing loss. A more recent study investigated the duration of painkiller use on increased rates of hearing loss. Published in 2017, this study conducted by researchers at Brigham and Women’s Hospital and Harvard Medical School included the following:  

• Study: this study included 55,850 participants who self-reported their use of painkillers and hearing ability annually from 1990-2012. Regular use of painkillers was defined as an average two or more doses per week. Research analyzed this data spanning over a 22-year period. 

• Findings: the painkillers investigated in the study include the most common types people take – ibuprofen, paracetamol (also known as acetaminophen) found in Tylenol, and aspirin. Researchers found that regular use of both ibuprofen and paracetamol increased the risk of hearing loss by:

• Ibuprofen: 1-4 years: 7%; 4-5 years: 8%; 6 years: 10% 

• Paracetamol: 16 years: 9%

Though previous studies have also linked aspirin with an increased risk of hearing loss, this specific study did not find a correlation.  These findings highlight that not only can painkillers damage hearing but that the longer you use these medications, the greater the risk to your hearing health. 

How Painkillers Contribute to Hearing Loss

Findings from this major 2017 study are consistent with general research showing a link between painkillers and an increased risk of hearing loss. Researchers and medical experts suggest that ototoxic drugs impact blood circulation through the body. This includes affecting the blood flow in the ears which can damage the hair cells in the inner ear.  There are thousands of hair cells in the inner ear which help translate soundwaves into electrical signals. These signals then travel through auditory pathways to the brain where they are further processed and assigned meaning which enables us to understand what we hear. Poor blood circulation, caused by painkiller use over time, can damage these hair cells which prevents them from carrying out their essential function. This makes it more challenging for the brain to process incoming sound, producing the symptoms commonly associated with hearing loss. Additionally, these hair cells, unlike other types of cells, do not regenerate. This means that when they lose sensitivity and/or die, this damage is permanent; resulting in hearing loss. 

Getting Your Hearing Assessed 

If you use painkillers regularly to treat symptoms you are experiencing, you should consult with your doctor. It is critical to identify any underlying health concerns that can be effectively treated, reducing regular use of painkillers. But if these medications are part of pain management approaches then it is incredibly important to have your hearing assessed regularly. Getting your hearing checked which is a great way to prioritize your hearing health and stay informed on any changes that could occur with your hearing. Because hearing loss typically happens gradually, it can go unnoticed for quite some time. Regular hearing health check-ins allow you to actually track and change and intervene early. Early intervention can contribute immensely to effective treatment and transition into better hearing health.

Improve Your Hearing Health

The first step is to schedule an appointment with us for a hearing test. Hearing assessments involve a relatively quick and noninvasive process that measures hearing ability in both ears. This identifies any impairment, the degree of hearing loss, and specific type that you may be experiencing.  Hearing tests also establish your hearing needs and allow you to explore best ways to meet those needs. The most common treatment for hearing loss is hearing aids which are electronic devices designed to absorb, amplify, and process sound. These innovative devices can significantly improve hearing ability which enhances communication and daily life!

If you are ready to benefit from better hearing, contact us today!