Increased Hearing Loss post hospitalisation

[Hihohiho]

I have had CLL for more than 10 years and until recently just watch and wait under care of Haematologist and have otherwise been fit and well. However in 2022 I have had 4 hospital admissions (Sepsis).

The latest was in early December and I was discharged on 14th. This time a chest infection was detected as the cause of my fever. My BP had fallen to 55 at time of admission and ICU was a live option but fortunately my bp improved fairly quickly.

My convalescence has been hard and slow. Symptoms have included vigorous nose bleeds, now stopped and more frequent need to urinate particularly at night. Again this is improving slowly.

My biggest frustration though is marked deterioration in my hearing. I have needed hearing aids for about 10 years. Last week I had wax removed from one ear, the other was clear. However my hearing has continued to almost disappear. I will be seeing an Audiologist on 4th Jan.

My question is whether this loss may be in some way be related to CLL?

To anyone who reads this I wish you a healthy and happy New Year.

Ivan (80)

Scotland

(Surname deleted for reasons of privacy - admin)

[AussieNeil Administrator]

HI Ivan,

Has your CLL consultant talked to you about whether you now meet the criteria for IVIG or subcutaneous IgG? You've had four very serious illnesses in the past year, so if your immunoglobulin is low enough, you could qualify for these immune boosting infusions, to protect you against further sepsis infections.

With respect to CLL causing your further hearing loss, that's quite possible and if so, should reverse if you have treatment for your CLL. It's rather rare for this to be the case, but if other causes have been ruled out, do let your investigating doctor know cases have been reported of CLL caused hearing loss, which were reversed by treatment. See: duckduckgo.com/?q=CLL+infil...

Neil

[Hihohiho in reply to AussieNeil]

Neil

Thanks for your prompt and detailed reply I will follow up your suggestions and have installed Dickduck

Ivan

[LeoPa in reply to Hihohiho]

I just had an incredible laugh on account of a typo. Thought to myself I want to try this Duckdick too 😂😂😂.. what's life worth without having fun and a good laugh from time to time!

[Big_Dee in reply to LeoPa]

Hello LeoPa

Ok, that made my day.

[Ginajetta]

certain antibiotics are known to cause hearing loss. Depending on antibiotics you’ve been on that is a possibility.

[Hihohiho in reply to Ginajetta]

Thanks Ginajetta that’s very helpful

Ivan

[MN1999]

I had significant hearing loss in both ears prior to any treatment due to infection (CLL related) -- had 'tubes' put in and that resolved the issue.

[Poodle2]

I was literally turning deaf prior to starting treatment. Repeated infections and 4x sepsis - that really sounds like you might benefit from starting treatment. What is your spleen like? I had reoccurring infections and that was one of the many reasons I did end up starting treatment in July 2022.

Definitely have your immunoglobulins tested if you would qualify for IVIG, see an immunologist - maybe prophylactic antibiotics would help as well?

...but yes, CLL can (it seems) cause hearing issues. All the best, I hope your recovery is quick. I had sepsis in July and it was quite a scary experience.

Petra ❤️

[Big_Dee]

Hello Hihohilo

First see your audiologist to determine if sound level is issue or comprehension, is problem. I have had profound hearing loss due to early fever during measles. I feel my CLL has caused a drop in my comprehension levels, but not my sound levels. Blessings.