What is Noise-Induced Hearing Loss?

In our everyday life, we hear a wide range of sounds – from traffic outside of our homes to conversations and the radio. These sounds tend to be at safe levels that won’t damage our hearing in the long term. But there are certain sounds which can be harmful when they are simply too loud – no matter if it’s for a short amount of time or a longer period. These are sounds that are above 85 DB, examples of such being:

• ATV
• Motorcycle
• Shouted conversation
• Rock concerts
• Chainsaw/snowmobile/leaf blower

Noise-induced hearing loss (NIHL) is a hearing impairment which is a result of this type of exposure. You will be able to recognize the effects and signs of NIHL either immediately or after a long amount of time. The moment that you notice hearing loss it’s important that you visit a hearing health professional. 

What are the signs of noise-induced hearing loss?

• Sounds might become muffled or distorted
• It is difficult to understand people when they are talking to you
• You have to turn up the television or radio

When the damage caused by NIHL is combined with the effects of aging, it can result in hearing loss that requires a hearing aid to help to magnify the surrounding sounds and communicate with others. Hearing aids might also be required by those of the younger generation that are suffering from NIHL.

NIHL can also be a result of a loud burst of sound, such as an explosion or gunshot. This type of sound can either cause damage to the bones that are in the middle ear or rupture the eardrum – causing permanent damage. It can also cause conditions such as tinnitus in one or both of your ears.

Occupational hearing loss can also occur if you work in a hazardous environment that frequently has exposure to loud noises. Whether you work in construction, mining, agriculture or you are a musician, you might be at risk of noise-induced hearing loss. 

How can you prevent it?

• Wear earplugs/ear protection when you’re in a hazardous environment 
• Limit your exposure to sounds over 85 Db
• Visit a hearing health professional if you start to notice signs

Who can NIHL affect?

According to the National Institute of Deafness and Other Communication Disorders (NIDCD), “at least 10 million adults in the U.S. under age 70 – and perhaps as many as 40 million adults (24%) – have features of their hearing test that suggest hearing loss in one or both ears from exposure to loud noise. Researchers have also estimated that as many as 17% of teens (ages 12-19) have features of their hearing test suggestive of NIHL in one or both ears.”

This statistic showcases that noise-induced hearing loss can affect anyone of any age. Whether you are a child or an adult, exposure to loud and harmful noise can result in either temporary or permanent damage to your hearing.