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Warning-sign checks

Acoustic trauma: when to get help

Go through these in order and stop at the first one that applies. If you are reading this for someone else, answer for them.

  1. 1

    Is any of this happening now?

    Call 911

    Emergency care is appropriate for new facial weakness, severe neurologic symptoms, inability to walk safely, heavy bleeding, clear ear drainage after head trauma, or breathing problems after a blast.

    Other emergency signs, for anyone
    • Someone who is struggling to breathe, gasping, choking, or cannot get words out
    • Someone who has chest pain, tightness or pressure lasting more than a few minutes
    • Someone who has sudden weakness or drooping on one side of the face or body, slurred speech, or sudden confusion
    • Someone who is unconscious, or cannot be woken
    • Someone who is bleeding heavily and it will not stop with firm pressure
    • Someone who has had a seizure that will not stop, or does not wake up afterwards
    • Someone who has lips or skin that look pale, blue, grey or blotchy
    • Someone who you believe has taken an overdose or swallowed something poisonous
  2. 2

    Is any of this happening?

    Be seen today

    Return for prompt medical review if hearing suddenly worsens, drainage develops, pain increases, fever appears, or dizziness returns.

    These changes can suggest infection or another complication.

  3. 3

    Does any of this apply?

    Book an appointment

    Follow-up timing depends on the injury and initial test results.

    A clinician may arrange a repeat hearing test within days or weeks to document recovery.

    Continued ENT or audiology care is appropriate when hearing loss, tinnitus, drainage, pain, or balance symptoms persist.

    For routine prevention, ask about workplace noise monitoring, properly fitted hearing protection, and periodic hearing tests if loud sound is part of work or recreation.

    Hearing protectors should be worn consistently and replaced when damaged or poorly fitting.

Every sign above is quoted from the sofidex article on Acoustic trauma. If you are not sure, err upward — it is always reasonable to be checked.