Hearing loss in chronic kidney disease in north Indian population: a prospective study

Background: Chronic kidney disease (CKD) is a global public health challenge. Patients with CKD show various otorhinolaryngological manifestations among which sensorineural hearing loss (SNHL) is the commonest. To determine the incidence of hearing loss and to describe the impact of chronic kidney disease on hearing in a tertiary care hospital of north India. Methods: This was a prospective cross-sectional study on 60 cases of CKD and 60 controls attending the ENT OPD at SMGSH, Jammu after getting (Institutional Ethical Committee) IEC clearance. Results: In the present study, 28 out of 60 patients of CKD had hearing loss. All the patients had SNHL in the high frequency range, sparing low and middle frequencies. There was a positive correlation between the stage and duration of CKD with hearing loss. Also, a significant correlation was found between the hearing loss and serum urea and creatinine levels. Conclusion: It was concluded that patients with chronic kidney disease must be evaluated audiometrically at regular intervals, for early identification, management and rehabilitation of hearing loss in order to reduce the co-morbidity of hearing impairment and improve the quality of life of these individuals.