Hearing is one of the senses of the human body, it allows us to communicate with others and is a part of our language development and learning. We are constantly exposed to noise every day, but high levels of noise can harm us, leading to hearing loss and other health conditions.
Exposure to high noise levels may lead a person to develop different hearing conditions, such as tinnitus and noise-induced hearing loss. Even the smallest amount of hearing loss can have a meaningful impact on anyone. To further understand this condition, this blog will give you an insight into what noise-induced hearing loss is and what the causes of it are.
What is Noise-induced Hearing Loss?
Being surrounded by noisy environments or listening to loud music can cause hearing damage over time. According to the CDC, Noise-induced hearing loss occurs when inner ear structures are damaged due to loud sounds. Most daily noises are at safe noise levels, but at other times, such as rock concerts, sounds become too loud for a long period of time. You may not notice any symptoms until a couple of weeks or months.
Noise-induced hearing loss can give rise to issues in communication, learning impediments, discomfort or a buzzing sensation in the ears, distorted or muted hearing, and an inability to detect certain environmental sounds and warning signals.
Causes of Noise-Induced Hearing Loss
Noise-induced hearing loss (NIHL) occurs when the hair cells inside the inner ear die, and once they die, they won’t grow back. A single event is capable of causing NIHL, like a loud explosion or gunshot. In this case, NIHL can be immediate and permanent. If you are exposed to loud noises over time, NIHL can happen after a period of time. You may not even notice any symptoms up until a couple of weeks or even months.
Try to listen to music at a safe level and stay away from any loud environments that can affect your hearing.
Who is Affected by Noise-Induced Hearing Loss?
Noise-induced hearing loss can happen to anyone. From young children to adults, NIHL is very common. People who attend concerts or listen to music at high volumes are susceptible to this condition. Moreover, people in the following occupations are more susceptible to this condition:
- Agriculture
- Mining
- Construction
- Military
- Carpentry
- Oil or gas extraction
If possible, wear ear protection to prevent any harmful noise from damaging your ears. If you are worried about this condition, look for a licensed audiologist to perform a hearing test.
Is Noise-Induced Hearing Loss Permanent or Temporary?
Noise-induced hearing loss can either be permanent or temporary. This depends on the amount of damaged inner ear cells. You may experience temporary hearing loss, but your cells will still be destroyed. If you continue to harm more cells, hearing loss can become permanent.
Seeking treatment for noise-induced hearing loss (NIHL) is crucial to mitigate its impacts and improve quality of life. A specialist could recommend hearing aids to improve your hearing, making sounds clearer and more accessible.
Great Hearing Benefits Helps You!
Noise-induced hearing loss is a condition that can affect individuals of all ages, with consequences extending beyond just hearing impairment. It can also have psychological impacts. Even though it is not always permanent, take care of your hearing and avoid constant exposure to loud noises.
Great Hearing Benefits works with health plans, employers, unions, and other organizations to improve the hearing health of individuals. We offer award-winning savings in hearing aids and support for any case. Contact us now to learn more!
