Muffled hearing that lingers after an ear injury
An ear surgeon and an audiologist look at hearing loss that won't clear
Before sound reaches your inner ear, it passes through the eardrum and three tiny bones in the middle ear. A blow to the head can damage the eardrum or knock those bones out of place. Blood or fluid can also muffle sounds for a while. If your hearing is still reduced once the first injury settles, get it checked again. [1, 2]
Hearing loss from sound being blocked on its way in is called conductive hearing loss. When it lasts, it can point to a break in the chain of tiny bones. Other causes are possible too. [1, 2]
Find out what kind of hearing loss you have
Tell your doctor when your hearing changed and whether one ear or both are affected. Mention any bleeding from the ear, ringing, dizziness or a torn eardrum. An ear exam and an audiogram, a type of hearing test, can help sort out the problem. They show whether sound is blocked in the outer or middle ear or whether the inner ear is involved. Ask for a copy of your hearing test so later results can be compared. [1, 2]
Checkups and choices
A hole in the eardrum may heal. Still, conductive hearing loss that lasts should be reviewed by an ear specialist. The specialist may suggest more tests. In select cases, they may consider repairing the small hearing bones. [1, 2]
Not everyone needs surgery. Ask whether watching and waiting, a hearing device or repair is the best next step for you. If you were told to keep the injured ear dry when you left, keep doing so. [1, 2]
Don't wait on a sudden change
Get urgent care for a sudden, steep drop in hearing, severe spinning or new weakness in the face. Clear fluid leaking from the ear also needs urgent care. Do not put cotton swabs or drops that weren’t prescribed into an injured ear. [1]
Questions about your hearing
- Does my audiogram show conductive, inner ear or mixed hearing loss?
- Has my eardrum healed?
- When should my hearing be tested again?
Book a hearing test if sound stays muffled
If your hearing is still muffled after the first exam, set up an audiogram. [1]
Sources and further reading
General education from otology, the medical study of the ear, and from audiology. After an injury, hearing loss can have several causes. A hearing test and an ear exam help tell middle ear problems from inner ear problems.
Keep learning
Safe Driving Resource Center
Guides, self-checks and articles for drivers, parents of new drivers, and families recovering after a crash.
