The Science Behind Noise-Induced Hearing Loss and How to Prevent It

Did you know that noise-induced hearing loss is a significant concern? With over a billion young individuals exposed to the risk of hearing damage due to loud noises, the imperative to protect auditory health is more pressing than ever. When hearing loss occurs, it can either be temporary or permanent. So, how does loud noise affect hearing?

Loud Noise and Hearing Health

It only takes one exposure to loud noise to cause hearing loss. There are many cells and membranes connected in the inner ear that can be easily damaged by loud noise. When a person is exposed to loud noise, the cells in the cochlea are damaged. If a person persistently listens to loud noise, it can cause hair cells in the inner ear to die. The longer a person listens to loud noises, the more likely it is for hearing loss to progress. At this point, hearing loss is usually permanent, and it can continue to progress even when exposure to loud noise has ceased.

Loud noise can also damage the nerves in your ears. The auditory nerve carries information about sound to your brain. When this is damaged, it can be difficult to detect hearing loss but with the help of your audiologist through a hearing examine, they will be able to see what form of treatment that you need based on the results.

How To Prevent Noise-Induced Hearing Loss

To protect your ears from noise-induced hearing loss, you’ll need to keep the volume down on any type of device you use. For instance, when listening to music, don’t turn the volume up past 60%. It can also help to take breaks every hour, especially if you’re using earphones to listen. If you’re going to a concert or stadium, stay as far away from the speakers as you can. You’ll still hear well from anywhere in the stadium but standing close to speakers can damage your hearing. Take some noise canceling headphones with you so you can take a break if you feel you need to.

If you work in a noisy environment, make sure to wear all of your protective equipment as you work. Your employer should provide you with industrial noise canceling headphones to protect your ears at all times. The louder the noise, the more likely you are to develop hearing problems at some point.

Symptoms of Hearing Loss

You may not be aware that your hearing has been damaged by noise until much later on. It can take time for symptoms to appear as hearing loss often happens gradually. You may notice that you need to turn the volume up on your TV to hear it properly. Or you may find it difficult to follow a conversation when you’re in a crowded space. If you notice any difference in your hearing, it’s important to get it checked by an audiologist. A simple test with an audiologist will identify any problem and you can discuss treatment and ear protection if you need it.