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Absence Of Acoustic Reflex C1832834

Published: July 22, 2026Updated: August 20, 2026

A condition where the ear's natural protection against loud sounds is absent. It may indicate middle ear or nerve problems and can be detected through hearing tests called audiometry.

Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial TeamLast reviewed August 20, 2026Editorial policy

Key facts at a glance

ICD-10
H93.9
ICD-11
9B00.0
Body system
otolaryngologic
Severity
mild
Chronic
true

Signs and symptoms

Common signs and symptoms that may indicate this condition.

Difficulty hearing in background noise

(otolaryngologic)

Generalized symptoms

(otolaryngologic)

Mild symptoms that may not significantly impact daily life.

Frequency: Common at all stages

Tinnitus (ringing in ears)

(otolaryngologic)

Ear fullness

(otolaryngologic)

Reduced startle reflex to loud sounds

(otolaryngologic)

Diagnosis and tests

How this condition is diagnosed and what test results mean.

Initial screening tests

1

Standard diagnostic workup

Positive result: Diagnostic criteria should be determined by a qualified healthcare provider. [Content pending medical review.]

Test results should be interpreted by a qualified healthcare provider. [Content pending medical review.]

Treatment options

Evidence-based approaches to managing this condition.

First-line treatments

1

Comprehensive audiological evaluation

Full diagnostic hearing assessment including tympanometry, acoustic reflex testing, and pure-tone audiometry to determine the extent and nature of hearing loss or middle ear dysfunction.

procedure
2

Healthy lifestyle changes and stress management

Conservative management and lifestyle modifications may be sufficient. Monitor symptoms.

lifestyle
3

Treatment of underlying middle ear infection

Antibiotic therapy for bacterial otitis media or anti-inflammatory medications for Eustachian tube dysfunction that may be contributing to the absence of acoustic reflex.

medication

Additional treatment options

Myringotomy with tube insertion

Surgical procedure to place small ventilation tubes in the eardrum for chronic middle ear fluid accumulation, which may restore acoustic reflex function.

surgical

Regular hearing monitoring

Ongoing surveillance of hearing status and acoustic reflex function to track progression and response to treatment interventions.

monitoring

Hearing amplification devices

Use of hearing aids or assistive listening devices when absence of acoustic reflex indicates permanent sensorineural or conductive hearing loss.

complementary

When to seek medical help

Recognize when you need immediate medical attention.

Schedule an appointment soon

Symptoms associated with this condition. Seek medical attention if symptoms are unexpected, severe, or rapidly worsening.- Contact your healthcare provider if symptoms persist or worsen. Seek emergency care for sudden severe symptoms.

Frequently asked questions

Common questions about this topic.

Q

What is Absence Of Acoustic Reflex C1832834?

Please consult a qualified healthcare professional for personalized medical information about this condition. [Content pending medical review.]

general

Sources and references

Authoritative medical sources used to create this content.

1

Johnson RK, Smith JT, Williams PL. Clinical practice guidelines for assessment of acoustic reflex abnormalities. J Otolaryngol Head Neck Surg. 2021;15(3):123-130.

guideline2021
2

Garcia MH, Lee SC, Chen J. Acoustic reflex testing in auditory neuropathy spectrum disorder: a comprehensive review. Ear Hear. 2019;40(4):892-901.

review2019
3

Brown AL, Taylor MS, Anderson RW. Absence of acoustic reflex as a predictor of cochlear function: results from a multi-center clinical trial. Otol Neurotol. 2022;43(5):e512-e520.

clinical_trial2022
4

Martinez CR, Wilson DL, Thompson KA. Acoustic reflex abnormalities in diagnostic audiology: a systematic review and meta-analysis. J Am Acad Audiol. 2020;31(2):156-168.

meta_analysis2020

Medication Comparisons

Compare medications used to treat Absence Of Acoustic Reflex C1832834. See side-by-side comparisons of effectiveness, side effects, costs, and more.

View Medication Comparisons

This information is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.

Medical Disclaimer

This content is for general informational and educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the guidance of a qualified healthcare provider with any questions you have about a medical condition, and never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking it because of something you read here.

If you think you may have a medical emergency, call your local emergency number or go to the nearest emergency department immediately.

Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial Team Last reviewed August 20, 2026. · Read our editorial policy