Publish by Priyanka Deshpande
Byline: Ekta Batra
CNBC-TV18.com
Published July 15 2024
There is a concerning rise in cases of sudden deafness, according to ENT specialist Dr. Milind Kirtane.
Previously encountering such cases once every six months, he now sees two to three patients weekly who experience sudden hearing loss.
Early intervention is crucial, though the exact cause remains unclear. Dr. Kirtane suspects a viral link, treating cases without identifiable causes with steroids and anti-inflammatory medications.
Dr. Kirtane, renowned for over 4,000 cochlear implant surgeries, highlights a shift towards pediatric cases, with 90-95% now involving children, in India.
Cochlear implants are life-changing for profoundly deaf children, enabling many to pursue careers in fields like medicine, law, and engineering.
He stresses the pivotal roles of audiologists and educators in cochlear implant success, attributing 90% of the effort to these professionals.
Addressing hearing loss risks in musicians and loud environments, he advises monitoring noise levels to prevent damage, especially in industries like music, manufacturing, and aviation.
Regarding ear pods, he advises moderation in volume levels to prevent potential hearing damage, emphasising responsible use based on sound intensity.