Some Physiological Factors in Noise-Induced Hearing Loss

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Abstract
Loss of auditory sensitivity following exposure to noise is the result of metabolic and structural alteration within the sensory cells of the organ of Corti. Similar changes can be caused by other agents which do not produce a recognizable change in hearing. However, noise is always superimposed upon the physiological state of the sensory epithelium, and this may determine the final affects of the noise. The source of nutrients for the sensory cells is the arcade of vessels lying beneath the basilar membrane. Localized occlusion of these vessels eventually produces degeneration of these sensory cells. Certain conditions produce constriction of some of these vessels, resulting in diminished blood supply and reduction in the metabolic state of the sensory cells. Superimposing overstimulation on these cells at this time would most likely have a destructive effect.

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