Noise-induced hearing loss is caused by exposure to harmful noise. Nearly a third of the 28 million people with hearing loss can at least partially attribute their impairment to noise. Noise-induced hearing loss can happen at any age and ranges from mild to profound. It may be accompanied by tinnitus, or ringing in the ears.
Hearing loss can be temporary following noise exposure. However, if noise exposure persists, the loss can become permanent over time. Hearing loss can occur after a short, loud sound like a gunshot or a firecracker or after repeated exposure to noise.
Loud noise or prolonged noise exposure can damage the hair cells in the inner ear. These hair cells assist sound waves in reaching the brain, where they are interpreted as sound. When they are damaged, optimum hearing ability is compromised. A person with noise-induced hearing loss may also have difficulty understanding speech.
But just how loud is too loud? Loudness is measured in units called decibels (dB). Normal conversation measures about 50 dB. Sounds above 85 dB can damage hearing.
A variety of products such as chainsaws, motorcycles, jet skis, snowmobiles and personal stereo systems reach loudness levels above 85 dB. Attending concerts, car races, clubs and exercise classes also expose people to potentially damaging noises.
Signs that you are in an environment with dangerous noise levels include needing to raise your voice to be heard, perceiving sounds as being muted after leaving the area,
and hearing ringing in your ears after exposure.
If you have been exposed to loud noise or suspect that your hearing ability has changed, it is possible you have a hearing loss. An audiologist can test your hearing ability.
Since continued exposure to noise can further damage hearing, it is important to take steps to protect your hearing, such as limiting the time you are exposed to noise and using ear protection when in noise.
For more information about hearing loss, hearing tests, custom ear protection, and available hearing aid technologies, contact Nola Aronson, M.A., Patrice Rifkind, Au.D., Ginny Newman, Au.D. of Audiology Associates at 661-288-1400.