Audiological and Oculomotor Tests Findings in Heavy Vehicle Drivers

Aim: To compare the vestibular test findings in long-term noise exposure on heavy vehicle drivers. Material and Method: The study involved 26 participants divided into two groups: G I, 13 heavy vehicle drivers, and G II, comprising 13 individuals who were not exposed to noise. Both groups underwent hearing evaluations and vestibular tests, which included cervical vestibular evoked myogenic potentials (cVEMP) and oculomotor tests. Result: The study found a significant difference in pure tone threshold between G I and G II. Among the 26 ears tested for vestibular-evoked myogenic potentials (VEMPs), 34.6% of ears in G I showed an absence of cVEMP, but in contrast, all subjects in G II showed the presence of VEMPs. However, no significant difference was found in latency and amplitude parameters between the two groups. Similarly, there was no significant difference in oculomotor test results between the groups. Conclusion: Exposure to loud noise can have adverse effects on both the hearing and vestibular systems. However, the impact of noise exposure on hearing sensitivity is greater than its impact on the vestibular system. Therefore, measures to reduce noise levels and provide appropriate hearing protection to drivers are crucial in preventing hearing damage and maintaining their balance and coordination while operating vehicles.