Hearing Loss Following IPL Test Patch on Soft Tissue Behind Ear

[mitmit]

Dear Dr Nagler,

I have a history of tinnitus and hyperacusis, but am somewhat puzzled by a new instance of hearing loss I developed as a result of an IPL (Intensed Pulsed Light) test patch I had done behind my right ear 5 days ago. It was performed on the soft tissue just behind my ear.

The main hearing loss of I have noticed is when I am talking/singing, I can no longer hear the deep tones in my voice internally in that ear. When I am listening to music through earphones, the sounds are much more muffled and indistinct in my right ear. I have a bit of very high frequency hearing loss too (the clashing of plates seems very dull and unabrasive in my right ear). I noticed that on that day I had two instances of high pitched squealing that receded, and some pain.

I was just wondering what you think might be the cause of the hearing loss in this case? Might it revert back to normal? This has been very distressing for me.

 

[Dr. Nagler]

Hello @mitmit.

IPL is a therapeutic modality used for various dermatologic conditions. Assuming that you underwent the procedure for an approved indication and assuming that the dosing was correct, I cannot see how an IPL treatment could possibly result in hearing loss. So either you are a rare exception in that regard, or your hearing loss coincides with the IPL treatment but is not causally related.

In any event, I suggest you see an ENT tomorrow since sudden hearing loss can sometimes by corrected if it is treated early enough. Do not wait on this. And if the scheduler tells you that the doctor is booked, say to her or him that you are experiencing sudden hearing loss and that you are afraid. Those words can usually get you in to see the doctor within a day.

All the best with it -

Stephen M. Nagler, M.D.