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hearing loss caused by using Acapella Choice device
After starting to use my Acapella Choice for MAC lung disease, I developed hearing loss. Could the hearing problems be from the Acapella? I've been using it for a couple of months now and my hearing is getting worse. I blow into it after the vibration stops, if the device allows me to do it (and I feel a lot of mucus bubbling in my lungs or throat).
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@ann25 Can you tell us more about your MAC? Are you taking antibiotics to treat the infection?
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1 ReactionI had a CT scan last spring and the radiologist said it looked like MAC because of all the mucus and other irregularities that he saw. My pulmonologist says that he can't diagnose MAC from a CT scan, but won't give me further testing because when I take antibiotics I have severe heart rate problems as well as stomach pain, so he doesn't think I can take the antibiotics. Currently I just use the Acapella choice device three times per day. I think that the pressure of blowing into the Acapella is hurting my hearing. I'm trying not to blow too hard.
I saw an ENT doctor last week, who said I had severe hearing loss in my left ear and mild hearing loss in my right ear, and water in both ears. I've never had this before. He wants to put tubes in my ears, like young children sometimes have. Do other people have this problem with the Acapella, and do you have any suggestions for me? Thanks.
Wow, I have talked to a LOT of people here and on other Bronchiectasis forums in the past 7 years, and never heard of this.
Knowing what I do of anatomy, unless you are using the Acapella in some incorrect manner, I do not think there is a connection between the device and your hearing loss. However, if you have an ongoing infection in your lungs, it could be in your ears too - this possibility should be explored by your doctors.
Did you have any coaching on how to use the Acapella device correctly, where a respiratory tech or therapist observed your technique? Does using the device help you bring up mucus?
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1 ReactionHi Sue, I've had training in how to use the Acapella, and I think I'm using it correctly. The Acapella does help me bring up mucus, and after using it I lie down on my back and on my sides and this helps me bring up more mucus. I will check with my doctors about whether I have an ear infection along with the infection in my lungs. I blamed the Acapella because my hearing loss, and an increase in tinnitus, started at about the same time I started using the Acapella. Thanks for your help.
I used the Acapella for a few weeks and didn't have ear issues. I stopped because a small part broke just after the return window closed.
I can only speculate that if you had congested ears you might feel pressure or popping. I'd guess the congestion/fluid would be the more likely cause of the hearing loss, but I'm not a doc. Does ENT think addressing fluid would help your hearing? Have they tried medications to decrease congestion? You could also take Acapella to appt.
Good luck!
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1 ReactionYes, the ENT thinks that draining the fluid by means of the ear tubes would help my hearing. Thanks for the idea that congested ears might be the root cause of the hearing loss, and the Acapella just makes it worse. I think you may be right, because I have lots of allergies to begin with. I will try fluticasone. Thanks much!
Did ENT start you on other meds or give you meds in office to help with the fluid/congestion? I'd sure ask about that, but you might be limited due to your other issues. Good luck!
No, he didn't mention meds as an option. I found fluticasone at CVS, but it might be harmful to people who have cataracts or borderline glaucoma, and I have both, so I need to find something else that I can take. I'll send a message to the ENT on Monday. Thanks!