Hearing loss or deafness can be described as the total inability to perceive sounds. While this condition can be caused by aging, prolonged exposure to loud noises and ear infections, it can also be caused by trauma from a car accident.
After a car accident, you might experience physical discomfort in your ears, ringing and hearing loss. There are different ways a car accident can result in hearing loss, and it is crucial to be aware of them. Below are some of the ways a car crash can cause hearing loss.
Head trauma
Head injuries are common injuries people experience after a car accident. Injuries like traumatic brain injuries and concussions might occur when your head hits an object in the car, like the windshield or steering wheel.
These forceful impacts can damage the inner parts of your ear, like the membranes, tissues and hair cells. Head trauma can also cause eardrum rupture, disrupt cochlea flow and cause minor bone injuries in the mid-ear.
On the other hand, a strong impact can cause the skull to fracture, and the resulting pieces of bones can pierce the inner ear causing hearing loss.
Whiplash
Whiplash is a neck injury caused by a quick back-and-forth movement of the neck. This condition is common in rear-end collisions. Unfortunately, depending on the impact, the rapid movement of the neck can damage the inner ear and result in hearing loss.
Airbag deployment
Airbags are intended to save lives during an accident. Unfortunately, when deploying, these cushions create loud pressure sounds that can instantly damage your inner ear. The loud sounds during the deployment can cause tinnitus and physical discomfort in your ear. In addition, when the airbag hits your head straight, you might experience broken ear bones resulting in hearing loss.
Experiencing hearing loss after an auto accident can be a devastating thing. The treatments can be complicated and lengthy, and you might need to wear hearing aids or undergo surgery. Don’t hesitate to seek medical attention and legal guidance, especially if someone was responsible for the accident.
