Noise-induced hearing loss is extremely common. If you are continuously exposed to noise that exceeds 85 decibels, your hearing might be permanently impaired.
Exactly How Does Noise-Related Hearing Loss Work?
This is a form of sensorineural hearing loss where hair cells in your inner ear are irreversibly destroyed by noise.
A progressive degeneration of hearing, eventually leading to permanent hearing loss, occurs when you are exposed to very loud noise for a long period of time. Instant damage can also happen if you are subjected to a burst of extremely damaging noise all at once.
Recreational and work activities account for 17% of hearing loss in people between the ages of 20 and 69. Some illustrations of noises that can result in hearing loss might include:
- Nearby fireworks
- Chainsaws
- Motorcycles
- Sirens
- Loud volume on earphones
- Jet engines
- Jackhammers
- Busy Traffic
Can it be Reversed?
Although scientists are making progress, currently, there is no cure for noise related hearing loss. Some of the damage in your ear might be due to inflammation so you should consult a doctor if you have been exposed to sudden loud noise. You may be able to limit the damage that develops by decreasing inflammation. Waves of sound are sent to the brain by the little hair cells inside of the ear. If noise damages or destroys them, they are unable to regenerate. Meaning that your ability to hear will be permanently affected. Safeguarding your ears, then, should be a priority, and consulting a specialist if you’re presently having hearing problems.
Addressing The Issue With Research
This condition is presently incurable. But restoring noise-induced hearing loss is top priority for scientists. There are clinical trials, for instance, that are trying to restore these hairs with a trial drug. Age-induced hearing loss and loud noise can damage these hairs, but restoration would help repair hearing if researchers are capable of getting the drug to work.
Protect Your Remaining Hearing
Noise related hearing loss can’t be cured but if you take specific steps to safeguard your ears, the hearing you have left can be preserved into the future. Some things you can do include:
- Minimize your exposure to extremely noisy activities at home
- If there are places that always have loud noise – avoid them
- Undergo regular hearing exams
- Manage any hearing loss you have with hearing aids
- If you work in an industry that has persistently loud noise, use the recommended hearing protection
Lowering the volume on your devices, using ear protection, and staying away from overly loud noise is the best way to protect your hearing. Schedule a hearing exam if you have been exposed to loud noise.