Deafness among combat soldiers exposed to noise trauma.

OBJECTIVE

To investigate the pattern of deafness in combat soldiers exposed to noise trauma.

DESIGN

Patients were assessed clinically and audiologically. Pure tone audiograms were done on admission, after two weeks and after one month.

SETTING

ENT department, Military Hospital, Army Headquarters, Colombo 2.

PATIENTS: 724 injured soldiers from the combat zone who complained of hearing impairment.

RESULTS

The pattern of deafness depends on type of weapon, the position of the body on the ground, proximity to the weapon and (4) whether wearing hearing protectors or not.

CONCLUSIONS

Adequate screening of soldiers before enlistment and regular audiological assessment are necessary for prevention and identification of hearing loss. Adequate hearing protection, early treatment of the injured and avoidance of further exposure to noise will prevent permanent disability.