Influence of Different Noise Types on Hearing Function in Patients Treated for Mild Otitis Media

Abstract

Background: Otitis media (OM) refers to a common clinical ear disease. Noise seriously damages human hearing function. This study aimed to investigate the effects of various noise types on the hearing function of patients who have recovered from mild OM. Materials and Methods: A total of 160 patients with mild OM treated at our hospital from May 2020 to May 2023 were retrospectively selected for this study. Based on clinical data, the patients were divided into the non-noise group (n = 80) and the noise (n = 80) group. The hearing thresholds of the two groups were compared across various noise types at 500, 1000, and 2000 Hz. In addition, the hearing thresholds of the noise group were compared under the same conditions. Results: The noise group exhibited significantly higher hearing thresholds at 500, 1000, and 2000 Hz than the non-noise group (P < 0.05). Under traffic, urban construction, and industrial noises, the auditory thresholds at 500, 1000, and 2000 Hz in the noise group were significantly higher than those observed under domestic and speech noises (P < 0.05). Conclusion: Noise shows a close relationship with the hearing function of patients with OM. Traffic, urban construction, and industrial noises greatly influence the hearing function of patients who have recovered from mild OM.