Noise-induced hearing loss in children: A ‘less than silent’ environmental danger

Journal List > Paediatr Child Health > v.13(5); May 2008

Paediatr Child Health. 2008 May; 13(5): 377–382.

PMCID: PMC2532893

Noise-induced hearing loss in children: A ‘less than silent’ environmental danger

Robert V Harrison, PhD DSc

Division of Neuroscience and Mental Health, The Hospital for Sick Children; Department of Otolaryngology – Head and Neck Surgery; Department of Physiology, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario

Correspondence and reprints: Dr Robert V Harrison, Division of Neuroscience and Mental Health, The Hospital for Sick Children, 555 University Avenue, Toronto, Ontario M5G 1X8. Telephone 416-813-6535, fax 416-813-8724, e-mail rvh/at/sickkids.ca

Accepted April 23, 2008.

Abstract

A review of the problems of noise-induced hearing loss in children, especially related to recreational music and the use of personal entertainment devices. The pathophysiology of noise-induced hearing loss and its associated problems (eg, tinnitus) are discussed. The evidence for an increase in noise-induced hearing loss in children and young people is reviewed. Some practical advice (for clinicians, caregivers and children) on hearing loss prevention is provided.

Keywords: Acoustic trauma, Hair cell damage, Noise-induced hearing loss, Recreational music

Résumé

L’auteur analyse les problèmes reliés à la perte auditive due au bruit chez les enfants, notamment en ce qui a trait à la musique récréative et à l’utilisation d’instruments de loisir personnel. Il expose la physiopathologie de la perte auditive due au bruit et des troubles connexes (p. ex., acouphènes). Il étudie les données probantes démontrant une augmentation de la perte auditive due au bruit chez les enfants et les adolescents. Il fournit des conseils pratiques (à l’intention des cliniciens, des personnes qui s’occupent des enfants et des enfants) en vue de prévenir la perte auditive.