Question

Noise-induced hearing loss is due to damage to stereociliated cells in the organ of Corti. This is caused by long term noise exposure resulting in shearing forces against the tectorial membrane. What is the main cause of noise-induced hearing loss?

1) Excessive earwax buildup
2) Infection in the middle ear
3) Damage to the cochlea
4) Blockage of the ear canal

Answer 1

Noise-induced hearing loss is primarily caused by damage to the cochlea's hair cells due to long-term exposure to loud sounds.

Step-by-step explanation:

The main cause of noise-induced hearing loss is damage to the cochlea, specifically to the stereociliated cells in the organ of Corti. This damage occurs due to shearing forces against the tectorial membrane from long term noise exposure, which can eventually result in the absence or loss of hair cells. These hair cells do not regenerate, and thus the hearing loss is permanent. Noise-induced hearing loss is a type of sensorineural hearing loss which cannot be treated by conventional hearing aids but may be alleviated through the use of cochlear implants in some cases.