About Harriet Jacobster, Au.D. Expertise I can answer questions regarding non-medical treatment of hearing loss such as hearing aids and aural rehabilitation. I am also able to answer your questions regarding hearing testing, what types of tests are appropriate, what information a hearing test gives you and what it doesn't give you. As a classically trained musician, I can also answer issues dealing with hearing loss specific to musicians.
Experience I am a Board Certified Doctor of Audiology with over 25 years' of experience working with both children and adults. I have given lectures on Hearing Loss and Hearing Aids to several state chapters of national organizations for the deaf and hard of hearing. I also taught Speech Reading and Aural Rehabilitation both privately and for the Florida Deaf Service Center.
Organizations American Academy of Audiology
American Speech Language Hearing Association
Education/Credentials Au.D. Doctor of Audiology, Nova Southeastern University 2000
Question Hi,
Two nights ago, I was taking trash to the bins that contain our apartment building's garbage cans. The bins are made of quite heavy, sturdy metal and have lids on hinges. After I put the trash in the bin, the lid slipped and slammed closed. It was a very loud noise - surprisingly loud - and occurred close to my right ear. Ever since I woke up yesterday next morning, I have heard what sounds like a high pitched ringing in my right ear. It sounds like a TV that is on but is on mute. I also feel like my right ear needs to be popped, and there could be some fluid in it. This could be due to the fact that I'm recovering from a cold.
My question is, is the noise I described actually traumatic enough to cause hearing loss or tinnitus? Could the ringing be from the fluid in my right ear and not from the noise trauma? I do recognize that the fact that I am focusing on this so much is making the sound more prominent! I do sort of forget about it when I'm distracted by something else that requires my full attention.
Any help would be appreciated! Thank you!
Answer Hi Natalie,
Yes, the noise you described actually could be loud enough to cause trauma and ringing, especially if coupled with the congestion. There may be a temporary hearing loss which could also give you the feeling that the ear needs to be popped. My suggestion is that you try to keep the noise level down for another day or two and try a nasal saline solution or decongestant to help with the stuffiness. If the ringing or stuffiness doesn't subside in a couple of days, you should see an ENT and an audiologist and have your hearing evaluated.
Hope this helps.
Harriet B. Jacobster, AuD
Board Certified in Audiology
