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Audiological issues and hearing loss among veterans with mild traumatic brain injury

Audiological issues and hearing loss among veterans with mild traumatic brain injury. Michael Oleksiak; Bridget M. Smith, PhD; Justin R. St. Andre, MA; Carly M. Caughlan, AuD; Monica Steiner, MD. Aim

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Audiological issues and hearing loss among veterans with mild traumatic brain injury

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  1. Audiological issues and hearing loss among veterans with mild traumatic brain injury Michael Oleksiak; Bridget M. Smith, PhD; Justin R. St. Andre, MA; Carly M. Caughlan, AuD; Monica Steiner, MD

  2. Aim • Examine prevalence, severity, etiology, and treatment of audiology problems among Operation Iraqi Freedom/Operation Enduring Freedom (OIF/OEF) Veterans with mild traumatic brain injury (TBI). • Relevance • While studies have examined link between TBI and hearing loss, mild TBI population specifically has not been widely studied.

  3. Methods • Retrospective chart review of 250 Veterans with mild TBI at 1 midwestern Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) medical center. • Individuals with confirmed mild TBI diagnosis between June 15, 2007, and July 15, 2009, were identified by local physicians based on TBI reports to Veterans Health Administration (VHA) Support Service Center. • Excluded patients with moderate/severe TBI, history of ear disease or hearing loss, or non-VA care for hearing loss.

  4. Results • Vast majority (87%) of Veterans reported some level of hearing disturbance. • Those with blast injuries reported higher incidence than those with other injury etiologies. • 75 Veterans were referred to audiology. • Of the 37 who attended: • 76% reported tinnitus and 60% hearing loss. • 49% were diagnosed with conductive hearing loss, sensorineural hearing loss, or central auditory dysfunction. • 24% had subclinical levels of auditory dysfunction.

  5. Conclusion • While only 1/3 of audiograms were abnormal, advanced testing found significant percentage of Veterans had auditory dysfunction. • Study highlights increased prevalence of hearing loss among OIF/OEF Veterans and need for appropriate referrals and treatment. • Strategies to address perceived stigma associated with hearing loss may increase attendance at follow-up visits.

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