Approach to hearing loss

Abstract

Objective: To provide family physicians with a practical evidence-based approach to the management of patients with hearing loss.

Sources of information: MEDLINE and PubMed databases were searched for English-language hearing loss research, review articles, and guidelines published between 1980 and 2020. Most of the retrieved articles provided level II or III evidence.

Main message: Hearing loss is one of the most common sensory impairments worldwide and causes great detriment to a patient's overall well-being by affecting physical health, finances, social inclusion, and mental health. A robust clinical assessment of hearing loss includes a history and physical examination that effectively characterizes the deficit as conductive, sensorineural, or mixed. Patients presenting with red flags (such as sudden unilateral sensorineural hearing loss) must be urgently referred to otolaryngology-head and neck surgery or immediately assessed in the emergency department. Many nonurgent presentations of hearing loss will also require referral for further audiological assessment, diagnosis, and management.

Conclusion: As primary care providers, family physicians are well equipped to manage the psychological concerns associated with hearing loss and to reinforce conservative treatment strategies. Frequently, referral or urgent workup, including imaging, is necessary to confirm a patient's diagnosis and initiate management in order to prevent further complications.