Noise-induced hearing loss is caused by damage to the hair cells found in the inner ear. Hair cells are small sensory cells that convert the sounds we hear (sound energy) into electrical signals sent to the brain. Once damaged our hair cells cannot grow back, causing permanent hearing loss.
The Cost of Losing Your Hearing
When you lose your hearing, thee is a loss to your quality of life. Untreated hearing loss may:
- Strain relationships with family, friends, and/or co-workers.
- Stop you from doing the things you used to enjoy.
- Impact your earning power on the job.
- Reduce your ability to understand what people are saying
Preventing Hearing Loss
Although hearing loss is a common effect of aging, some Americans are starting to lose their hearing earlier in life as a result of exposure to noise, noise-induced hearing loss. Noise-induced hearing loss is 100% preventable.
Wear hearing protection such as ear plus and earmuffs when being exposed to levels of noise over 85 decibels (dB) for extended periods of time. (Look for the NRR rating to know the approximate dB reduction the ear protection provides.)
A quick reference for levels of noise:
- 60 dB – Normal conversations or dishwashers
- 80 dB – Alarm clocks
- 90 dB – Hair dryers, blenders, and lawnmowers
- 100 dB – MP3 players at full volume
- 110 dB – Concerts, car racing, and sporting events
- 120 dB – Jet planes at take off
- 130 dB – Ambulances and fire engine sirens
- 140 dB – Gun shots, fireworks, and custom car stereos at full volume
*reported by the American Academy of Audiology