How to prevent and treat hearing loss in patients with nasopharyngeal carcinoma after radiotherapy

With the update of radiotherapy equipment and the continuous improvement of radiotherapy technology, the survival rate of NPC patients after radiotherapy has been significantly improved. However, while treating tumors, radiotherapy will inevitably damage normal tissues and organs, causing some complications, thus affecting the quality of life of patients. Hearing loss and even deafness are one of its complications. According to literature reports, the incidence of deafness can reach 55% 2 years after radical radiotherapy for NPC.

So, how should nasopharyngeal cancer patients receiving radiotherapy prevent and treat hearing loss and deafness?

1. The radiation dose to the ear should be minimized during radiotherapy.

2. When radiation otitis media ruptures the tympanic membrane and causes discharge, keep the drainage unobstructed to avoid the entry of dirty water and dirt, and use antibacterial ear drops early under the guidance of a doctor.

3. You can use 3% hydrogen peroxide to flush the external auditory canal to keep the area clean. Remember not to apply too much pressure.

4. Do not dig your ear canal at will to reduce exogenous infection of the middle ear.

5. During or after radiotherapy, use 1% ephedrine nasal drops and flush the nasopharynx every day to remove nasopharyngeal secretions and reduce Eustachian tube obstruction.

6. Patients with acute or chronic inflammation of the nasopharynx should receive timely treatment to prevent bacteria from passing through the open Eustachian tube and causing mastoid infection.

7. Keep the outer ear clean, especially when bathing or swimming, use sterile cotton balls to block the external auditory canal.

In addition, you should strengthen your own exercise, keep warm, prevent colds, and reduce the chance of infection.