You are constantly surrounded by sounds; traffic, appliances, radio, TV, and more, but do you know when the noise is too much? These everyday sounds should not damage your hearing when heard at safe levels. However, one-time exposure to an intense sound such as an explosion, or exposure to loud sounds for an extended period of time can lead to Noise-Induced Hearing Loss (NIHL). According to the National Institute of Deafness and Other Communication Disorders (NIDCD) as many as 40 million U.S. adults under 70 years old showed signs of NIHL in a hearing screening.
Unlike other forms of hearing loss, Noise-Induced Hearing Loss can sometimes be temporary. For instance, you may experience sudden hearing loss after exposure to a loud sound. However, this may be an indication that continuous exposure to that noise at that level will lead to permanent hearing loss. This hearing loss is a result of damage or death to the inner ear hair cells. Unfortunately, those hair cells cannot be repaired and do not grow back, which is why permanent hearing loss is irreversible.
While hearing lossis irreversible, it is preventable. By taking the right measures, you can protect and preserve your hearing health. For example, wearing earplugs at concerts and sporting events, choosing to sit farther away from the stage during live performances, and listening to music at lower levels especially when wearing headphones, are all ways to reduce your risk of NIHL.
To help understand everyday levels of sounds and test your hearing, take the Frequency Test below!
If you are in the South Florida area and have questions about your hearing health or think you may be experiencing hearing loss, contact New Generation Hearing Centers. The experts at NGH can help you understand risks and causes of hearing loss and also provide you with personalized hearing solutions.
