Applying their scientific rigour to 24 studies, the researchers have discovered a new association between a Covid infection and three auditory symptoms – hearing loss, tinnitus and vertigo. Professor of audiology, Kevin Munro, said: “There is an urgent need… to understand the long-term effects of COVID-19 on the auditory system.” The hearing health lead at Manchester Biomedical Research Centre (BRC), Professor Munro continued.
Tinnitus
“Tinnitus is the name for hearing noises that are not caused by sounds coming from the outside world,” explained the NHS.
It can sound like:
- Ringing
- Buzzing
- Whooshing
- Humming
- Hissing
- Throbbing
- Music or singing
These sounds can be heard in either ear, or both, or in your head; it may come and go, or you might hear them all the time.
Deep breathing can help to minimise distress caused by tinnitus, as can listening to soft music or sounds in the background to help distract you.
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Treatment for vertigo may include antibiotics, special exercises and antihistamines.
Professor Munro concluded: “Though this review provides further evidence for an association, the studies we looked at were of varying quality so more work needs to be done.”
This research was published in the International Journal of Audiology, and has led the way for further investigation.
The team are now conducting a more detailed clinical study to find out the number and severity of coronavirus-related hearing disorders in the UK.
Source: Daily Express
