It is common knowledge that many medications come with a variety of side effects. Among these side effects are hearing-related problems such as hearing loss and ringing in the ears, known as tinnitus. Some medications may also affect a person’s balance or make them feel dizzy.
We’ll look at some of the medications that may have hearing-related side effects and some of the steps you can take in Pinellas County to look after your hearing no matter what your age.
What are Some of the Medications With Hearing-Related Side Effects?
Some medications and their ingredients may have potential side effects that could affect your hearing. Here are some of the medications that may present such side effects.
Quinine
Quinine is a medication that is often used to treat malaria, a serious illness that causes high fever, chills, and symptoms similar to flu. Quinine can be effective in treating malaria as it kills the parasite that is infecting the body or stops it from spreading further.
However, temporary hearing loss and tinnitus are known to be side effects of this medication, although typically, it is more likely to affect people who are taking it in the long term.
Chloroquine
Chloroquine is another medication used to treat malaria or prevent people from contracting this illness. This strong medication can be effective in treating certain types of malaria, but it is not without side effects. Like quinine, chloroquine may cause hearing loss and/or tinnitus, most likely temporarily.
Chemotherapy Medication
Some types of chemotherapy medication are known to cause hearing-related side effects including hearing loss and tinnitus. Medication used to treat cancer can bring a variety of side effects that affect hearing and balance. Patients who are undergoing treatment for cancer may experience vertigo, tinnitus, and hearing loss – either temporary or permanent.
Pain Relief Medication
Medication intended to help relieve pain comes with multiple potential side effects. Common medications used for pain relief include aspirin and naproxen. When taken for longer periods of time, pain relief medication may cause tinnitus and hearing loss, although usually, this is not permanent.
Things That Can Help You Look After Your Hearing
While in some circumstances, you might not feel it is possible to avoid all medication that could bring hearing-related side effects, it’s important to consider what could help you to look after or improve your health no matter what age you are. Here are some of the everyday things you can consider to help improve your hearing and reduce the chances of hearing loss.
- Turn the volume down: Listening to music and other audio at high volumes can significantly increase the chances of experiencing hearing loss in later life. Reduce the volume of sound, particularly when using earphones, and limit the time you spend listening to loud music.
- Take medication under the guidance of a health professional: Taking some medications unnecessarily or for extended periods of time can increase your chances of experiencing hearing-related problems. Consult with a qualified health professional before taking medication, and use it as instructed.
- Manage stress: Stress levels can have an impact on your hearing. Managing your stress levels and taking steps to reduce stress can have a huge impact on your overall health, including your hearing, in the short and long term.
Finding Support With Hearing Problems
You can find support with hearing problems by visiting Countryside Hearing Aid Services in Pinellas County. Whether you are experiencing new issues with your hearing or you want to explore the latest advancements in hearing aid technology, qualified specialists are available to help you navigate through your worries.
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