Noise-induced hearing loss is very common. If you are continuously exposed to noise that exceeds 85 decibels, your hearing might be irreversibly damaged.
Exactly How Does Noise-Related Hearing Loss Work?
This is a kind of sensorineural hearing loss where hair cells inside of your inner ear are permanently destroyed by noise.
Noise-related hearing loss can be brought on by long-term subjection to extremely high levels of noise, which leads to a gradual deterioration of your hearing. It can also be caused by a single instance of a loud burst of noise that can immediately result in hearing loss.
Over 17 percent of individuals between the ages of 20 and 69 have hearing loss that is a result of their recreational or work activities. Here are a few examples of noises that can result in hearing loss:
- Jet engines
- Chainsaws
- Busy Traffic
- Loud headphoness
- Construction equipment
- Motorcycles
- Emergency Vehicles
- Nearby fireworks
Can it be Reversed?
There is presently no cure for noise-related hearing loss (although scientists are working on it). If you have been exposed to a loud noise, you need to see a doctor as soon as possible, because some of the prolonged damage is due to inflammation in the ear. If you could reduce the inflammation you might be capable of reducing some long term damage. The hair cells in your inner ear are in control of sending sound waves to your brain. They never regenerate once they are destroyed. So once they are gone, permanent hearing impairment is the consequence. Protecting your ears, then, should be a priority, and consulting a specialist if you’re presently having hearing problems.
Research to Tackle The Issue
This condition is currently incurable. But restoring noise-related hearing loss is top priority for scientists. For instance, some studies are in clinical trials presently that are evaluating whether a drug can repair the growth of these little hairs in the ear. Age-induced hearing loss and loud noise can harm these hairs, but regrowth would help restore hearing if scientists are able to get the drug to work.
Protect Your Remaining Hearing
Noise related 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. You can:
- Manage any hearing loss you have with hearing aids
- Use the proper hearing protection devices, like earplugs or earmuffs if you work in places with persistently loud noises
- Get tested regularly
- Limit your exposure to exceedingly noisy activities at home
- If there are areas that regularly have loud noise – avoid them
Actually, it’s best to avoid exposure to loud noise by using 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.