Noise-related hearing loss is exceptionally common. If you are constantly exposed to noise that that is over 85 decibels, your hearing could be irreversibly damaged.
What is Noise-Induced Hearing Loss?
This is a form of sensorineural hearing loss where hair cells inside of your inner ear are irreversibly damaged by noise.
A progressive degeneration of hearing, eventually leading to permanent hearing loss, develops when you are subjected to very loud noise over a long period of time. Instant damage can also happen if you are subjected to a burst of extremely damaging noise all of a sudden.
Recreational and work activities account for 17% of hearing loss in individuals between 20 and 69. Here are some examples of noises that can result in hearing loss:
- Jet engines
- Nearby fireworks
- Emergency Vehicles
- Chainsaws
- Construction equipment
- Busy Traffic
- Loud headphoness
- Motorcycles
Is it Reversible?
Even though scientists are making progress, presently, there isn’t a cure for noise related hearing loss. Some of the damage inside your ear could be due to inflammation so you need to consult a doctor if you have been subjected to sudden loud noise. If you could reduce the swelling you might be capable of reducing some long term damage. Waves of sound are transmitted to the brain by the little hair cells in the ear. They never regenerate once they are ruined. So once they’re gone, permanent hearing impairment is the result. This is why it is critical that you take the necessary steps to safeguard your hearing, and if you’re exposed to a loud noise, that you see a specialist as soon as possible.
Research to Manage The Issue
This condition is currently incurable. But repairing noise-related hearing loss is top priority for researchers. For example, some research is in clinical trials right now that are testing whether a drug can restore the growth of the little hairs in the ear. Age-induced hearing loss and loud noise can damage these hairs, but regrowth would help restore hearing if scientists are capable of getting the drug to work.
What Hearing Remains Needs to be Protected
Noise induced hearing loss can’t be healed but if you take specific steps to protect your ears, the hearing you have left can be protected into the future. Some things you can do include:
- Whatever your hearing loss might be, hearing aids could be the solution
- If there are places that regularly have loud noise – avoid them
- Undergo regular hearing exams
- Use the appropriate hearing protection devices, like earmuffs or earplugs if you work in places with persistently loud noises
- Limit your exposure to very noisy activities at home
Really, it’s best to eliminate exposure to loud noise by wearing hearing protection and keeping the volume down on all your devices. Make an appointment for a hearing test if you have been exposed to loud noise.