Audiological Tests Used in the Evaluation of the Effects of Solvents on the Human Auditory System: A Mixed Methods Review.

This study aimed to scope the literature, identify knowledge gaps, appraise results, and synthesize the evidence on the audiological evaluation of workers exposed to solvents. We searched Medline, PubMed, Embase, CINAHL, and NIOSHTIC-2 up to March 22, 2021. Using Covidence, two authors independently assessed study eligibility, risk of bias, and extracted data. National Institute of Health Quality Assessment Tools was used in the quality evaluation of included studies; the Downs and Black checklist was used to assess the risk of bias. Of 454 located references, 37 were included. Twenty-five tests were studied: two tests to measure hearing thresholds, one test to measure word recognition in quiet, six electroacoustic procedures, four electrophysiological tests, and twelve behavioral tests to assess auditory processing skills. Two studies used the Amsterdam Inventory for Auditory Disability and Handicap. The quality of individual studies was mostly considered moderate, but the overall quality of evidence was considered low. The discrepancies between studies and differences in the methodologies/outcomes prevent recommending a specific test battery to assess the auditory effects of occupational solvents. Decisions on audiological tests for patients with a history of solvent exposures require the integration of the most current research evidence with clinical expertise and stakeholder perspectives.

Audiological findings of family farmers exposed to pesticides. / Achados audiológicos de agricultores familiares paranaenses expostos a agrotóxicos.

PURPOSE: To analyze the possible differences among the hearing of farmers and their families when compared to the population not exposed to pesticides. METHODS: Cross-sectional study with 70 smallholder family farmers (research group), with the mean age of 39.7 years, of both sexes and a mean of 23.7 years of exposure to pesticides. We included a control group with 71 participants of both sexes with the mean age of 39.5 years, not exposed to either noise or chemical substances, to compare the results. In stage 1, both groups were submitted to conventional and high-frequency audiometry, and acoustic immittance. In stage 2, only people with normal hearing were submitted to the evoked otoacoustic emissions and suppression effect on transient otoacoustic emissions. RESULTS: Significant differences were observed between the groups in the conventional pure-tone and in the high-frequency audiometry, as well as in the acoustic reflex. The most affected frequencies in the conventional pure-tone audiometry ranged from 3 to 6 kHz and, in the high-frequency audiometry, from 9000 to 11200 Hz. As for the transient otoacoustic emissions, the worse suppression effect results were found in the research group. CONCLUSION: There were differences among the hearing of family farmers and the control group. The conventional auditory thresholds are related to the group, age and sex. Farming is associated with impairments in the basal region of the cochlea, absence of acoustic reflex, reduced signal-to-noise ratio of the transient otoacoustic emissions, and dysfunction in the olivocochlear efferents of the auditory system.

OBJETIVO: Analisar as possíveis diferenças na audição de agricultores e suas famílias em comparação com população não exposta aos agrotóxicos. MÉTODO: Estudo transversal, com 70 participantes (grupo pesquisa), com média de idade de 39,7 anos, de ambos os sexos, proprietários de pequenos estabelecimentos agrícolas vinculados a agricultura familiar e tempo de exposição médio aos agrotóxicos de 23,7 anos. Um grupo controle com 71 participantes de ambos os sexos, sem exposição a ruído e agentes químicos, com idade média de 39,5 anos, foi incluído para a comparação dos resultados. Na etapa 1, ambos os grupos foram submetidos a audiometria convencional e de altas frequências e imitanciometria. Na etapa 2, somente os normoouvintes foram submetidos as emissões otoacústicas evocadas e efeito de supressão das emissões otoacústicas transientes. RESULTADOS: Observou-se diferenças significativas entre os grupos para audiometria tonal convencional e de altas frequências, e no reflexo acústico. As frequências mais afetadas na audiometria tonal convencional foram 3 a 6kHz e na audiometria de altas frequências foram as frequências de 9.000 e 11.200 Hz. Nas emissões otoacusticas transientes, observou-se no efeito de supressão piores resultados no grupo de pesquisa. CONCLUSÃO: Conclui-se que houve diferenças na audição dos agricultores familiares em comparação com o grupo controle. Os limiares auditivos convencionais estão relacionados em função do grupo, idade e gênero. O trabalho na agricultura está associado com o comprometimento na região basal da cóclea, à ausência de reflexo acústico, à redução da relação sinal/ruído das emissões otoacústicas transientes e à disfunção do sistema auditivo eferente olivococlear.

Effects of COVID-19 on auditory and vestibular function in an adult patient: a longitudinal case study / Efeitos da COVID-19 na função auditiva e vestibular em paciente adulta: um estudo de caso longitudinal

ABSTRACT COVID-19 is a viral infection that mainly affects the lower respiratory tract and with the affinity of the Spike protein to the Angiotensin 2 converter enzyme, inducing a prothrombotic state which may lead to compromising of the cardiovascular, central nervous, auditory, and vestibular systems. Viral infections knowingly affect vestibular and auditory systems. This study aimed to present the auditory and vestibular findings of a woman without otoneurological complaints, before the infection with SARS-CoV-2. This is a longitudinal case report, presenting the evolution of the otoneurological clinical picture accompanied by the results of a battery of tests. The results evidenced a unilateral, permanent, cochlear sensorineural hearing loss through altered otoacoustic emissions albeit with normal tonal thresholds, accompanied by peripheral vestibular hypofunction which worsened with time, without any other factor that could justify these findings. This study shows the importance of the complete protocol of tests performed over time for a better understanding of long-time implications of the SARS-CoV-2 infection.

RESUMO A COVID-19 é uma infecção viral que afeta, principalmente, a via respiratória inferior e, com a afinidade da proteína Spike com a Enzima Conversora de Angiotensina 2, gerando estado protrombótico, pode haver comprometimento dos sistemas cardiovasculares, nervoso central e renal. As infecções virais são capazes, também, de causar alterações nos sistemas auditivo e vestibular. O presente estudo teve por finalidade apresentar os achados auditivos e vestibulares de uma mulher sem queixas otoneurológicas, previamente à infecção pela SARS-CoV-2. Trata-se de um relato de caso longitudinal, com apresentação da evolução do quadro clínico otoneurológico acompanhado de uma bateria de exames. Os resultados evidenciaram o aparecimento de uma perda auditiva neurossensorial unilateral prevista por emissões otoacústicas alteradas na presença limiares tonais normais. Com a sequência de exames, observou-se piora dos limiares auditivos e alteração da função vestibular, de maneira permanente, sem qualquer outro histórico que pudesse justificar a instalação do quadro. Em quadros infecciosos faz-se importante a longitudinalidade de avaliação com uso de protocolo completo de exames para melhor compreensão dos efeitos tardios.

Achados audiológicos de agricultores familiares paranaenses expostos a agrotóxicos / Audiological findings of family farmers exposed to pesticides

RESUMO Objetivo Analisar as possíveis diferenças na audição de agricultores e suas famílias em comparação com população não exposta aos agrotóxicos. Método Estudo transversal, com 70 participantes (grupo pesquisa), com média de idade de 39,7 anos, de ambos os sexos, proprietários de pequenos estabelecimentos agrícolas vinculados a agricultura familiar e tempo de exposição médio aos agrotóxicos de 23,7 anos. Um grupo controle com 71 participantes de ambos os sexos, sem exposição a ruído e agentes químicos, com idade média de 39,5 anos, foi incluído para a comparação dos resultados. Na etapa 1, ambos os grupos foram submetidos a audiometria convencional e de altas frequências e imitanciometria. Na etapa 2, somente os normoouvintes foram submetidos as emissões otoacústicas evocadas e efeito de supressão das emissões otoacústicas transientes. Resultados Observou-se diferenças significativas entre os grupos para audiometria tonal convencional e de altas frequências, e no reflexo acústico. As frequências mais afetadas na audiometria tonal convencional foram 3 a 6kHz e na audiometria de altas frequências foram as frequências de 9.000 e 11.200 Hz. Nas emissões otoacusticas transientes, observou-se no efeito de supressão piores resultados no grupo de pesquisa. Conclusão Conclui-se que houve diferenças na audição dos agricultores familiares em comparação com o grupo controle. Os limiares auditivos convencionais estão relacionados em função do grupo, idade e gênero. O trabalho na agricultura está associado com o comprometimento na região basal da cóclea, à ausência de reflexo acústico, à redução da relação sinal/ruído das emissões otoacústicas transientes e à disfunção do sistema auditivo eferente olivococlear.

ABSTRACT Purpose To analyze the possible differences among the hearing of farmers and their families when compared to the population not exposed to pesticides. Methods Cross-sectional study with 70 smallholder family farmers (research group), with the mean age of 39.7 years, of both sexes and a mean of 23.7 years of exposure to pesticides. We included a control group with 71 participants of both sexes with the mean age of 39.5 years, not exposed to either noise or chemical substances, to compare the results. In stage 1, both groups were submitted to conventional and high-frequency audiometry, and acoustic immittance. In stage 2, only people with normal hearing were submitted to the evoked otoacoustic emissions and suppression effect on transient otoacoustic emissions. Results Significant differences were observed between the groups in the conventional pure-tone and in the high-frequency audiometry, as well as in the acoustic reflex. The most affected frequencies in the conventional pure-tone audiometry ranged from 3 to 6 kHz and, in the high-frequency audiometry, from 9000 to 11200 Hz. As for the transient otoacoustic emissions, the worse suppression effect results were found in the research group. Conclusion There were differences among the hearing of family farmers and the control group. The conventional auditory thresholds are related to the group, age and sex. Farming is associated with impairments in the basal region of the cochlea, absence of acoustic reflex, reduced signal-to-noise ratio of the transient otoacoustic emissions, and dysfunction in the olivocochlear efferents of the auditory system.

Hearing health educational interventions for school students / Intervenções educativas em saúde auditiva para escolares

ABSTRACT Purpose: to implement and assess hearing health interventions for school students, using Dangerous Decibels® Program activities in partnership with the Young Doctor Project, approaching noise-induced hearing loss prevention. Methods: the study encompassed 41 students, aged 12 to 14 years, from two schools in inland São Paulo and a social institution for public school students. Activities were based on the Young Doctor Project and the Dangerous Decibels® Brazil Program. The students answered a questionnaire administered in three situations: before the intervention (pre), right after the intervention (post), and 4 months after the intervention. The ANOVA, Friedman (p < 0.001), and Tukey´s (p < 0.05) statistical tests were used. Results: the 41 students who participated in the program were protagonists of knowledge, spreading the content they learned to another 954 students in the three schools through cultural workshops. The analysis of program effectiveness revealed improved results right after the intervention and 4 months afterward. Conclusion: combining these two programs encouraged the protagonism of young people to increase their involvement with the community. Moreover, the students changed their attitude toward potentially dangerous sounds.

RESUMO Objetivo: implementar e avaliar intervenções em saúde auditiva para escolares, utilizando as atividades do Programa Dangerous Decibels ®, em parceria com o Projeto Jovem Doutor, abordando aspectos preventivos da perda auditiva induzida por níveis de pressão sonora elevados. Métodos: participaram do estudo 41 escolares, com idade entre 12 e 14 anos, de duas escolas no interior de São Paulo e uma Instituição Social direcionada a estudantes de escolas públicas. As atividades foram baseadas no Projeto Jovem Doutor e no programa Dangerous Decibels ® Brasil. Os escolares responderam a um questionário aplicado em três situações, antes da intervenção (pré), logo após a intervenção (pós) e quatro meses após a intervenção. Foram utilizados os testes estatísticos ANOVA, FRIEDMAN; p<0,001 e TUKEY; p<0,05. Resultados: os 41 escolares que participaram do programa atuaram como protagonistas do conhecimento, multiplicando o conteúdo aprendido através das oficinas culturais, envolvendo 954 escolares das três escolas. Ao analisar a eficácia do programa, observou-se melhora nos resultados logo após a intervenção e, também, após 4 meses. Conclusão: a união desses dois programas incentivou o protagonismo juvenil, objetivando o maior envolvimento dos estudantes junto da comunidade. Foi possível observar a mudança de atitude dos escolares frente aos sons potencialmente perigosos.

The use of the Dangerous Decibels® program for refrigeration company workers and their children: an intergenerational pilot study / Uso do programa Dangerous Decibels® para trabalhadores de empresa frigorífica e seus filhos: estudo piloto intergeracional

ABSTRACT Objective: to report the use of the Dangerous Decibels® program for workers of a refrigeration company and their children as an intervention strategy for hearing health. Methods: an intervention study conducted in the city of Chapecó, SC, Brazil. Eight workers from a refrigeration company and their children participated in the study. The strategies adopted were those proposed by the Dangerous Decibels® program. Results: the Dangerous Decibels® program strategies contributed to the reflection on noise and favored interaction among participants. Workers and their children mutually committed to protecting and preserving hearing by passing on the knowledge gained to other family members, friends, and co-workers. The three basic principles of the Dangerous Decibels® program adopted by the participants were: Move away from noise, turn down the volume and protect the ears. Conclusion: the Dangerous Decibels® program developed in an intergenerational context was well received and accepted by workers and their children. As an educational intervention strategy for hearing health, it proved to be viable, convenient and with adequate content to be used simultaneously in populations of different age groups.

RESUMO Objetivo: relatar o uso do programa Dangerous Decibels® para trabalhadores de uma empresa frigorífica e seus filhos como estratégia de intervenção em saúde auditiva. Métodos: o estudo caracteriza-se como um estudo de intervenção, realizado na cidade de Chapecó, no estado de Santa Catarina. Participaram do estudo, oito trabalhadores de uma empresa frigorífica e seus filhos. Foram utilizadas as estratégias propostas pelo Programa Dangerous Decibels®. Resultados: as estratégias do programa Dangerous Decibels®, contribuíram para a reflexão sobre o ruído e favoreceram a interação entre os participantes. Os trabalhadores e seus filhos assumiram o compromisso mútuo de proteger e preservar a audição, levando adiante o conhecimento adquirido para os demais familiares, amigos e colegas de trabalho. Os três princípios básicos do programa Dangerous Decibels®: afastar-se do ruído, abaixar o volume e proteger os ouvidos, foram adotados pelos participantes. Conclusão: o programa Dangerous Decibels® desenvolvido em um contexto intergeracional, foi bem recebido e aceito pelos trabalhadores e seus filhos. Como estratégia de intervenção educativa em saúde auditiva, ele mostrou-se viável, conveniente e com conteúdo adequado para ser usado simultaneamente em populações com faixas etárias diferentes.

Study on hearing loss and its relationship with work in pesticide-exposed tobacco growers / Estudo da perda auditiva e a sua relação com o trabalho em fumicultores expostos a agrotóxicos

ABSTRACT The Purpose of this case report is to present four cases of tobacco growers with hearing loss due to occupational exposure to pesticides. A qualitative case study comprising three cases of sensorineural hearing loss with causal nexus (Cases 1, 2 and 4), and one (Case 3) of sensorineural hearing loss compatible with ototoxicity by pesticides, with causal nexus mainly based on minor neuropsychiatric disorders. The sample was composed of rural workers with health problems, in working age, having started working early in life, exposed to various pesticides, including organophosphates. The auditory and neurovegetative symptoms reported were noise discomfort (n = 2), speech perception difficulty (n = 3), dizziness (n = 2), and imbalance (n = 2). The pure-tone audiometry revealed a sensorineural hearing loss in one or more high frequencies, and one of the cases presented alteration in the brainstem auditory evoked potentials. There is evidence, in this study, of an association between hearing loss and work in tobacco growers exposed to pesticides, with peripheral auditory damage in four cases, and central damage in one of them. Thus, the need for a complete audiological evaluation of pesticide-exposed populations is highlighted.

RESUMO O objetivo desse relato de casos clínicos é apresentar quatro casos de fumicultores com perda auditiva devida à exposição laboral a agrotóxicos. Trata-se de um estudo de caso qualitativo, incluindo 3 casos de perda auditiva sensório-neural com nexo causal (Casos 1, 2 e 4) e um caso (Caso 3) de perda auditiva sensório-neural compatível com ototoxidade por agrotóxicos, com nexo baseado, sobretudo, nos transtornos neuropsiquiátricos menores. A casuística foi constituída por trabalhadores rurais com problemas de saúde, em idade produtiva, com início de atividade laboral precoce, expostos a múltiplos agrotóxicos, incluindo os organofosforados. Os sintomas auditivos e neurovegetativos relatados foram: desconforto a sons (n=2), dificuldade de compreender a fala (n=3), tontura (n=2) e desequilíbrio (n=2). A audiometria tonal revelou perda auditiva sensório-neural em uma ou mais frequências altas e um dos casos apresentou alteração no Potencial Evocado Auditivo de Tronco Encefálico. Foi evidenciada associação entre perda auditiva e o trabalho nos fumicultores expostos a agrotóxicos, com danos auditivos periféricos nos quatro casos e dano central em um dos casos, demonstrando a necessidade da avaliação audiológica completa para populações expostas a agrotóxicos.

The Importance of Otoneurological Evaluation in Brazilian Workers Exposed to Pesticides: A Preliminary Study

Introduction: Agrochemicals, also known as pesticides, are widely used in agriculture and in public health. They are organic and inorganic chemical substances with a high level of toxicity not only for the environment, but also for human health. Objective: To verify findings on labyrinthine assessment in endemic disease control agents, and to recommend the inclusion of the vestibular exam in the set of tests for pesticide-exposed populations. Methods: Descriptive, prospective, cross-sectional study with a sample comprising 15 endemic disease control agents, males, mean age of 51.6 years old (standard deviation [SD] = 5.9). All of the participants were submitted to anamnesis, otorhinolaryngological screening, and vestibular assessment. Results: Regarding the most reported complaints, dizziness (73.4%), headache (60%), and tingling in the extremities (53.4%) were observed. The findings of the vestibular exams were normal in 53.3%, while 46.7% showed peripheral vestibular disorder, of which 26.7% were of deficitary type, and 20% of the irritative type. Conclusions: Alteration in the vestibular system was verified in 50% of the workers, with a greater prevalence in the caloric testing. Several disorders related to pesticides intoxication are scientifically known. Actions promoting knowledge and qualification of this population for the proper handling of chemicals are suggested, in addition to the elaboration and inclusion of protocols of vestibular assessment in hearing health programs for the prevention, diagnosis and treatment of vestibular disorders (AU)

The Importance of Otoneurological Evaluation in Brazilian Workers Exposed to Pesticides: A Preliminary Study.

Introduction Agrochemicals, also known as pesticides, are widely used in agriculture and in public health. They are organic and inorganic chemical substances with a high level of toxicity not only for the environment, but also for human health. Objective To verify findings on labyrinthine assessment in endemic disease control agents, and to recommend the inclusion of the vestibular exam in the set of tests for pesticide-exposed populations. Methods Descriptive, prospective, cross-sectional study with a sample comprising 15 endemic disease control agents, males, mean age of 51.6 years old (standard deviation [SD] = 5.9). All of the participants were submitted to anamnesis, otorhinolaryngological screening, and vestibular assessment. Results Regarding the most reported complaints, dizziness (73.4%), headache (60%), and tingling in the extremities (53.4%) were observed. The findings of the vestibular exams were normal in 53.3%, while 46.7% showed peripheral vestibular disorder, of which 26.7% were of deficitary type, and 20% of the irritative type. Conclusions: Alteration in the vestibular system was verified in 50% of the workers, with a greater prevalence in the caloric testing. Several disorders related to pesticides intoxication are scientifically known. Actions promoting knowledge and qualification of this population for the proper handling of chemicals are suggested, in addition to the elaboration and inclusion of protocols of vestibular assessment in hearing health programs for the prevention, diagnosis and treatment of vestibular disorders.

Perception of the Quality of Life of Tobacco Growers Exposed to Pesticides: Emphasis on Health, Hearing, and Working Conditions

Abstract Introduction Tobacco farming exposes workers to various health risks due to the high application of pesticides needed to control pests, weeds and fungal diseases that prevent the tobacco plant growth. Objective To analyze the perception of the quality of life of tobacco growers exposed to pesticides, with emphasis on general health, hearing, and working conditions. Method This is a descriptive, cross-sectional study using a quantitative approach with farmers from southern Brazil. Data were collected from November of 2012 to November of 2014. For data collection, we opted for the 36-item short form health survey (SF-36) questionnaire, and a questionnaire with closed questions about health, hearing and working conditions. We evaluated a total of 78 subjects; the study group, made up of 40 tobacco farmers exposed to pesticides, and a control group of 38 participants without occupational exposure to pesticides. Both groups are residents of the same municipality, and users of the federal public health system. Results The results showed that tobacco growers had lower quality of life scores compared with the control group. Significant differences were observed in the areas of pain and general health. There were correlations between physical elements and chronic diseases; hearing complaints and a lack of personal protective equipment use, occupation and hearing complaints, as well as general health and hearing complaints. Conclusion Tobacco farming is a risky activity for general and hearing health, and it can impact the quality of life of those working in this field. (AU)

Perception of the Quality of Life of Tobacco Growers Exposed to Pesticides: Emphasis on Health, Hearing, and Working Conditions.

Introduction Tobacco farming exposes workers to various health risks due to the high application of pesticides needed to control pests, weeds and fungal diseases that prevent the tobacco plant growth. Objective To analyze the perception of the quality of life of tobacco growers exposed to pesticides, with emphasis on general health, hearing, and working conditions. Method This is a descriptive, cross-sectional study using a quantitative approach with farmers from southern Brazil. Data were collected from November of 2012 to November of 2014. For data collection, we opted for the 36-item short form health survey (SF-36) questionnaire, and a questionnaire with closed questions about health, hearing and working conditions. We evaluated a total of 78 subjects; the study group, made up of 40 tobacco farmers exposed to pesticides, and a control group of 38 participants without occupational exposure to pesticides. Both groups are residents of the same municipality, and users of the federal public health system. Results The results showed that tobacco growers had lower quality of life scores compared with the control group. Significant differences were observed in the areas of pain and general health. There were correlations between physical elements and chronic diseases; hearing complaints and a lack of personal protective equipment use, occupation and hearing complaints, as well as general health and hearing complaints. Conclusion Tobacco farming is a risky activity for general and hearing health, and it can impact the quality of life of those working in this field.

Achados audiológicos em pacientes portadores de disfunção temporomandibular / Audiological findings in patients with temporomandibular dysfunction

RESUMO Objetivo Analisar os achados audiológicos em indivíduos com desordem temporomadibular e comparar esses achados com indivíduos sem desordem temporomanbibular. Métodos A amostra foi composta por 39 participantes adultos, de ambos os gêneros, com diagnóstico prévio de desordem temporomandibular (grupo de estudo) e 39 participantes adultos, sem desordem temporomandibular (grupo controle). Todos os participantes foram submetidos à audiometria tonal limiar em altas frequências, imitanciometria e pesquisa das emissões otoacústicas evocadas por produto de distorção. Resultados Observou-se prevalência de desordem temporomandibular no gênero feminino e a média de idade ficou acima da quarta década de vida. Na audiometria tonal limiar, foi observada ocorrência de perda auditiva do tipo neurossensorial e condutiva, no grupo de estudo, além de piores limiares auditivos em altas frequências. Em ambos os grupos, houve maior ocorrência de curva timpanométrica do tipo A, bem como diferenças entre os grupos na pesquisa do reflexo acústico ipsilateral e contralateral e no registro das emissões otoacústicas evocadas por produto de distorção. Conclusão Indivíduos com desordem temporomandibular apresentam piores resultados nos limiares auditivos, na timpanometria, nos reflexos acústicos ipsilaterais e contralaterais e nas emissões otoacústicas evocadas, quando comparados com o grupo controle.

ABSTRACT Purpose To analyze the audiological findings in individuals with temporomandibular disorder and compare these findings with individuals without temporomandibular disorder. Methods The sample was composed by 39 adult participants, both genders, with previous diagnosis of temporomandibular disorder (study group) and 39 adult participants, without temporomandibular disorder (control group). All the participants were submitted to audiometry including high frequencies, Immittance acoustic (Tympanometry and contralateral acoustic reflexes) and distortion product evoked otoacoustic emissions. Results The prevalence of temporomandibular disorder on female gender was observed, average age was over forty years old. In the audiometry, it was observed the incidence of hearing loss of a sensorineural and conductive type in the Study Group, besides worst hearing thresholds in high frequencies. In both groups, there was a bigger incidence of a type A tympanometric curve, as well as there were differences between the groups in the research of the ipsilateral and contralateral acoustic reflex and in the recording of distortion product evoked otoacoustic emissions. Conclusion It's possible to conclude that individuals with temporomandibular disorder show worst results in the hearing thresholds, in the tympanometry, in the ipsilateral and contralateral acoustic reflexes, in the evoked otoacoustic emissions, when compared to the control group.

Workers of the hospital maintenance sector: protection, hearing symptoms and noise exposure / Trabalhadores do setor de manutenção hospitalar: proteção, sintomas auditivos e exposição à ruído

ABSTRACT Purpose: to investigate the use of hearing protection and symptoms in hospital maintenance workers and evaluate the noise level of the machines. Methods: a cross-sectional quantitative study held with workers from a public hospital maintenance service. A questionnaire related to personal, clinical and occupational history was used. Measurement of the noise level of the machines in the sector was carried out using a sound pressure level meter. Results: 57 male workers participated, mean age of 43.28 years, among the workers, carpentry prevailed (10.53%), length of time at the job averaged 8.9 years and 9.3 daily work hours; 45.76% did not know what could be done to reduce maintenance noise; 59.65% wore hearing protectors at work, ear plug model (47.37%), and 82.45% thought that the noise was reduced when they wore the hearing protector correctly. Auditory and non-auditory signs and symptoms were denied by most workers. Noise perception in the maintenance service was medium (53%) and high (44%), evidenced noise levels of 62.0 to 101dB (A). Conclusion: the hearing protector was worn by 59.7% of the workers, the plug model was the most used (47.4%) and 75.8% reported that occupational noise decreased with the use of hearing protectors. Most workers use hearing protection and have no hearing symptoms. However, the presence of symptoms such as otalgia (8.8%), otorrhea (5.3%), dizziness (14.0%), tinnitus (17.5%) and difficulty in speech comprehension (7, 0%) should be pointed out. Noise assessment showed high levels from some maintenance machinery, representing a risk for hearing. The sectors of the woodwork and metalwork were the noisiest.

RESUMO Objetivo: investigar o uso da proteção e sintomas auditivos em trabalhadores do setor de manutenção hospitalar e avaliar o nível de ruído das máquinas. Métodos: estudo quantitativo transversal, realizado com trabalhadores de um serviço de manutenção hospitalar de um hospital público. Utilizou-se um questionário relacionado aos dados pessoais, história clínica e ocupacional. Foi realizada a avaliação do nível de ruído das máquinas, utilizando-se um medidor de pressão sonora. Resultados: participaram 57 trabalhadores do sexo masculino, média de idade de 43,28 anos, prevaleceu a função de marceneiro (10,53%), tempo de serviço em média 8,9 anos e 9,3 horas diárias de trabalho; 45,76% desconheciam o que poderia ser feito para reduzir o ruído na manutenção; 59,65% utilizavam protetor auditivo durante o trabalho, do tipo plug (47,37%), e 82,45% achavam que o ruído diminuía quando usavam corretamente o protetor auditivo. Sinais e sintomas auditivos foram negados pela maioria dos trabalhadores. A intensidade do ruído na manutenção foi considerada média (53%) ou alta (44%), sendo confirmada no resultado da avaliação do ruído, que variou de 62,0 a 101,0 dB(A). Conclusão: o Protetor auditivo era utilizado por 59,7% dos trabalhadores, o protetor tipo plug foi o mais utilizado (47,4%) e 75,8% afirmaram que o ruído no trabalho diminui com o uso do protetor auditivo. A maioria dos trabalhadores faz uso de proteção auditiva e não apresenta sintomas auditivos. Entretanto, ressalta-se a presença de sintomas como otalgia (8,8%), otorréia (5,3%), tontura (14,0%), zumbido (17,5%) e dificuldade de compreensão de fala (7,0%). A avaliação do ruído demonstrou níveis elevados, oriundos de alguns maquinários existentes na manutenção, representando um risco para a audição. Os setores da marcenaria e serralheria foram os mais ruidosos.

Relationship between Otological Symptoms and TMD.

BACKGROUND: Patients with any type of temporomandibular disorder (TMD) may have several symptoms in their temporomandibular joints, masticatory muscles and associated structures, and may have otological symptoms such as tinnitus, ear fullness, ear pain, hearing loss, hyperacusis, and vertigo, which may be due to the anatomical proximity between the temporomandibular joint, muscles innervated by the trigeminal nerve, and ear structures. Objective: This study found a prevalence of ear complaints described in the medical records of patients (n = 485) at the Center for Diagnosis and Treatment of the Temporomandibular Joint and Dental-Facial Functional Alterations at Tuiuti University of Paraná (CDATM/UTP), with TMD evaluated by the Research Diagnostic Criteria/Temporomandibular Disorders (RDC/ TMD). METHOD: After approval by the ethics committee were examined 485 medical records of patients of the CDATM/UTP, of both sexes a period of 2 years. The data analyzed were gender, age and the presence of reported otologic symptoms. The data were organized and subjected to statistical analysis using SPSS (IBM Statistic 20.0). RESULTS: The results showed a higher number of female patients between 41 and 50 years old. There was a prevalence of otological symptoms (tinnitus, deafness, dizziness, imbalance, and ear fullness) in 87% of TMD cases, regardless of sex and age. Tinnitus was the symptom with the highest prevalence (42%), followed by the ear fullness (39%). CONCLUSION: These data support the correlation between temporomandibular disorders and otological symptoms, even without being caused directly by the ear.

Active aging: an intervention-research report / Envelhecimento ativo: um relato de pesquisa-intervenção

ABSTRACT Purpose: this study aimed to analyze significant effects of language activities on elderly people´s autonomy and social participation. Methods: it is an intervention research report, based on a dialogical discourse perspective, developed in two stages. In the first, a speech-language intervention involving written and oral practices about life stories was carried out with six elderly participants. In the second, a semi-structured interview was applied with these participants based on questions that addressed the aims of the study. Results: the participants were all females, aged between 61 and 90 years old. Their statements indicated that, through dialogical practices, they were able to increase their social participation, autonomy and self-esteem; they were also able to deconstruct stigmatizing social standards imposed to elderly people. Final Considerations: dialogical practices among the elderly can help promote active aging and overcome negative conceptions about elderly people, as proposed by the World Health Organization and the National Health Care Policy for the Elderly, which confirm that elderly people contribute to social development.

RESUMO Objetivo: analisar os efeitos que atividades significativas com a linguagem podem ter sobre a autonomia e a participação social de idosos. Métodos: trata-se de uma pesquisa-intervenção que, embasada na perspectiva dialógica do discurso, desenvolveu-se em duas etapas. Na primeira, foi realizada uma intervenção fonoaudiológica, envolvendo práticas orais e escritas acerca de histórias de vida de seis participantes idosos. Na segunda, os participantes responderam a uma entrevista semiestruturada, a qual continha questões voltadas aos objetivos do estudo. Resultados: os participantes eram todos do gênero feminino, com idades entre 61 e 90 anos. Seus enunciados indicaram que, por meio de práticas dialógicas, puderam ampliar sua participação social e a própria autonomia, resgataram a autoestima e conseguiram desconstruir padrões sociais estigmatizantes impostos à velhice. Considerações Finais: práticas dialógicas junto a pessoas idosas podem auxiliar na promoção do envelhecimento ativo e na superação de concepções negativas em torno da velhice, conforme proposto pela Organização Mundial da Saúde e pela Política Nacional de Saúde da Pessoa Idosa, as quais afirmam que os idosos são contribuintes do desenvolvimento social.

Percepção de equipes de trabalho sobre o ruído em pronto-socorro / Perception of work teams about the noise at emergency room

RESUMO Objetivo Comparar a percepção dos profissionais das áreas de enfermagem e administrativa frente ao ruído no pronto-socorro. Métodos Estudo descritivo, com análise quantitativa. A percepção do ruído foi avaliada por meio de questionário, em forma de entrevista. Participaram do estudo 59 profissionais, 38 da área de enfermagem e 21 da área administrativa. O levantamento estatístico levou em conta o nível de significância de 0,05 (5%), através do teste Qui-quadrado. Resultados A percepção do ruído pelos profissionais de enfermagem e administração, no pronto-socorro, foi considerada como ruidosa e mais intensa no turno da tarde. Profissionais da enfermagem identificaram mais os ruídos dos equipamentos (60,53%) e os da área administrativa, os ruídos de pessoas (85,71%). As queixas extra-auditivas mais citadas foram cansaço, estresse, ansiedade, nervosismo e irritabilidade. Os profissionais da enfermagem demonstraram ser os mais incomodados com o ruído, porém, os administrativos referiram dificuldades em desempenhar suas tarefas. Conclusão Houve diferença na percepção do ruído entre os profissionais das áreas de enfermagem e administrativa, mas para ambas as áreas, o ruído de maior incômodo é aquele produzido por pessoas, mostrando a necessidade de programas educativos de prevenção e conscientização para redução de ruído, direcionados aos profissionais do pronto-socorro.

ABSTRACT Purpose Compare the perception of professionals in the nursing and administrative areas regarding noise in the emergency room. Methods Descriptive study with quantitative analysis. The noise perception was evaluated by means of an Adapted Questionnaire, in the form of an interview. A total of 59 professionals participated in the study, 38 from the nursing area and 21 from the administrative area. The statistical survey considered the level of significance of 0.05 (5%), through Chi-square test. Results The perception of noise by emergency room nursing and administration staff was considered noisy and most intense in the afternoon shift. Nursing professionals identified more the equipment noise (60.53%) and administrative workers the people noise (85.71%). The most frequently extra-auditory complaints were fatigue, stress, anxiety, nervousness and irritability. Nursing professionals are the most annoyed by noise, but administrative employees report more difficulties in performing their tasks in the face of noise. Conclusion There was a difference between perception of nursing and administrative area, but for both the most annoying noise is people. Implement educational prevention and awareness programs to reduce noise aimed at Emergency Room professionals.

Neonatal Hearing Screening in primary health care and family health care. / Rastreamento e monitoramento da Triagem Auditiva Neonatal em Unidade de Estratégia de Saúde da Família: estudo-piloto.

PURPOSE: The Universal Newborn Hearing Screening (UNHS) looks for early diagnosis and rehabilitation of newborns at risk or not of hearing impairment. The purpose is analyze the flow of Universal Newborn Hearing Screening in the family health care strategy unit through the tracking and monitoring of children. METHODS: This is a quantitative and retrospective study. The trace begins with the third copy of the Live Newborn Declaration, filled in at the maternity ward. An interview with parents and guardians was made by a community agent at the Health Unit or at the home of the newborn. Monitoring was conducted by live birth declaration and the information collected by the interviewer from maternal and child health booklet and the follow-up at high complexity services. RESULTS: The sample was made up of 50 neonates. 52% were between 30 and 89 days and 54% were male. 12% of newborns presented a risk factor for hearing loss and the neonatal screening was performed in 86% of cases. Hearing health measures show integrality in hearing impairment care at the basic health unit to high complexity hospital. CONCLUSION: The flow of care for newborn hearing screening is in agreement with the child health care guidelines in Curitiba, however, it is not yet universal. In conclusion, the participation of the family health strategy unit in the tracking and monitoring of children submitted to the Universal newborn hearing screening program is feasible and recommended.

Rastreamento e monitoramento da Triagem Auditiva Neonatal em Unidade de Estratégia de Saúde da Família: estudo-piloto / Neonatal Hearing Screening in primary health care and family health care

RESUMO Objetivo A Triagem Auditiva Neonatal Universal (TANU) visa ao diagnóstico precoce e à reabilitação de neonatos em situação de risco ou não para deficiência auditiva. O objetivo principal foi analisar o fluxo de Triagem Auditiva Neonatal Universal em Unidade de Estratégia de Saúde da Família por meio do rastreamento e monitoramento das crianças. Método É um estudo retrospectivo, quantitativo. O rastreamento foi realizado a partir da terceira via da Declaração de Nascido Vivo preenchida na maternidade. O monitoramento foi realizado pela ficha de acompanhamento do recém-nascido preenchida pelo agente comunitário e uma entrevista com os pais ou responsáveis, na unidade da Secretaria Municipal de Saúde, ou por visita domiciliar. Também foram coletadas informações na caderneta de saúde da criança e acompanhamento em serviços de alta complexidade. Resultados A casuística foi constituída por 50 neonatos, sendo que 52% deles estavam entre 30 e 89 dias de vida e 54% eram do gênero masculino. Apresentaram fator de risco para deficiência auditiva, 12% dos neonatos e 86% realizaram a triagem neonatal. As ações em Saúde Auditiva mostram que está havendo integralidade de atendimento na etapa hospitalar e ambulatorial, na unidade básica de saúde analisada e em serviços de alta complexidade. Conclusão O fluxo de atendimento em Triagem Auditiva Neonatal Universal converge para a Diretriz de Atenção à Saúde da Criança Curitibana, mas ainda não é universal. Concluindo-se assim, que a participação da Unidade de Estratégia de Saúde da Família, no rastreamento e monitoramento das crianças submetidas ao programa de Triagem Auditiva Neonatal Universal no município, é viável e recomendada.

ABSTRACT Purpose The Universal Newborn Hearing Screening (UNHS) looks for early diagnosis and rehabilitation of newborns at risk or not of hearing impairment. The purpose is analyze the flow of Universal Newborn Hearing Screening in the family health care strategy unit through the tracking and monitoring of children. Methods This is a quantitative and retrospective study. The trace begins with the third copy of the Live Newborn Declaration, filled in at the maternity ward. An interview with parents and guardians was made by a community agent at the Health Unit or at the home of the newborn. Monitoring was conducted by live birth declaration and the information collected by the interviewer from maternal and child health booklet and the follow-up at high complexity services. Results The sample was made up of 50 neonates. 52% were between 30 and 89 days and 54% were male. 12% of newborns presented a risk factor for hearing loss and the neonatal screening was performed in 86% of cases. Hearing health measures show integrality in hearing impairment care at the basic health unit to high complexity hospital. Conclusion The flow of care for newborn hearing screening is in agreement with the child health care guidelines in Curitiba, however, it is not yet universal. In conclusion, the participation of the family health strategy unit in the tracking and monitoring of children submitted to the Universal newborn hearing screening program is feasible and recommended.

Atividade de grupo como estratégia de educação em saúde auditiva de trabalhadores de um serviço de manutenção hospitalar / Group activity as an educational hearing-health strategy with workers of a hospital maintenance service

RESUMO Introdução A perda auditiva induzida por ruído requer medidas de promoção à saúde auditiva e prevenção dos riscos, sendo a educação dos trabalhadores um fator primordial para redução desse agravo. Objetivo Descrever uma intervenção de educação em saúde auditiva com trabalhadores de um serviço de manutenção hospitalar, por meio de atividades em grupo, fundamentadas na pedagogia problematizadora. Métodos Para a ação educativa, adotou-se a técnica de atividades em grupo e desenvolveu-se a pedagogia problematizadora em suas três fases: síncrese, análise e síntese. Foram realizadas cinco atividades de grupo, com a participação de dez trabalhadores de um serviço de manutenção de um hospital de grande porte. Os dados foram obtidos de acordo com as falas dos participantes e avaliados com base na análise de conteúdo na modalidade temática. Resultados A prática educativa promoveu a interação entre os trabalhadores e moderadores, bem como o desejo comum de construírem uma proposta para a promoção da saúde auditiva no ambiente da manutenção hospitalar, com fundamento na realidade vivenciada. Foi possível ressignificar a prática no serviço de manutenção, identificando riscos e soluções e, a partir da reflexão, propor ações transformadoras, com vistas à promoção da saúde auditiva dos trabalhadores, principalmente o uso de protetores auditivos. Conclusão A intervenção contribuiu para a construção do conhecimento, a formação e o desenvolvimento da consciência crítica dos trabalhadores sobre a temática da saúde auditiva.

ABSTRACT Introduction Noise-induced hearing loss requires actions to promote hearing health and risk prevention, and education of workers, a major factor for reducing this disease. Purpose To describe an educational hearing-health intervention with workers of a hospital maintenance service through group activities grounded in the problem-solving pedagogy. Methods Intervention study with a qualitative approach. Group activity technique was adopted for the educational action, and the problem-solving pedagogy was developed in its three phases: synchresis, analysis and synthesis. Five group activities were carried out, having the participation of ten workers of a large hospital maintenance service. Data were collected from participants' accounts and analyzed by means of thematic content analysis. Results Educational intervention promoted the interaction between workers and moderators, as well as their joint desire of building a proposal for hearing health promotion from their experienced reality in the hospital maintenance settings. It was possible to re-mean maintenance practice by identifying risks and solutions, changing actions were also proposed through reflection, aiming at promoting workers' hearing health, mainly by the use of hearing protection. Conclusion The intervention contributed to knowledge building, education and development of workers' critical awareness on the hearing health theme.

Amplified music with headphones and its implications on hearing health in teens.

OBJECTIVE: To analyze the habits and behavior of adolescents exposed to amplified music with headphones and its implications on their hearing health. METHODS: One hundred thirty-one high school students, aged 15 to 18 years were given a questionnaire containing closed questions regarding their habits and behavior related to personal stereos use. It is a descriptive cross-sectional study and used the Chi-square test. RESULTS: It was shown that 79% of young people make use of portable music devices, 61.83% have a habit of using them often, 34.35% have long periods of exposure, and 37.40% use them at high volume. In terms of symptoms, present were: difficulty concentrating 63.36%; the need to ask people to repeat what was said 64.12%; the need to increase the TV volume 43.51%; tinnitus 38.93%, excitability 38.93%; and 36.64% of teens say they are somewhat worried about losing their hearing through the use of personal stereos. For the preventive aspects, 90.84% believe that noise is part of society, 80.92% find it important to reduce noise pollution, 51.91% would like to know the influence of the noise/pollution, but 74.81% would not like to participate in projects with questions about hearing health. CONCLUSION: The youths in this study are making indiscriminate use of personal stereos with headphones, within a population at risk for hearing loss considering its habits. Hearing Health Promotion Programs are recommended for this population.