🎗️ Hearing Loss and Chemotherapy: What You Need to Know

🔬 How Chemotherapy Affects Hearing

Chemotherapy drugs are powerful agents designed to destroy cancer cells, but some can also harm healthy cells in the inner ear. This side effect is known as ototoxicity. It damages the delicate hair cells responsible for transmitting sound and balance signals to the brain.

• Platinum-based drugs (cisplatin, carboplatin) are the most widely recognized causes.

• Cisplatin is particularly potent, with hearing loss reported in many adults and children receiving treatment.

• The risk increases with higher doses, longer treatment duration, and pre-existing ear conditions.

📊 Symptoms to Watch For

Patients undergoing chemotherapy should be alert to:

• Sudden or gradual hearing loss (often starting with high-frequency sounds).

• Tinnitus (ringing or buzzing in the ears).

• Balance issues or dizziness.

🩺 Importance of Monitoring

Because chemotherapy-related hearing loss can be permanent, early detection is critical. Experts recommend:

• Baseline hearing tests before starting chemotherapy.

• Regular audiological monitoring during treatment.

• Post-treatment follow-ups to track long-term changes.

🌱 Coping and Support

If hearing loss occurs, timely intervention can make a big difference:

• Hearing aids or cochlear implants may restore communication ability.

• Speech and language therapy helps patients adapt to changes.

• Counseling and support groups provide emotional resilience during recovery.

💙 Unicare’s Commitment

At Unicare Speech & Hearing Clinic, Vikaspuri, we continuously support people with cancer who are undergoing regular chemotherapy. Understanding the risks of ototoxicity, we provide regular audiological assessments at minimal cost, ensuring that patients and families can safeguard their hearing health while focusing on recovery.

✨ Final Thoughts

Chemotherapy saves lives, but its side effects—like hearing loss—should not be overlooked. By working closely with oncologists and audiologists, patients can protect their hearing and maintain quality of life. With compassionate care and affordable monitoring, Unicare stands by every patient’s journey toward healing and communication.