Noise-induced hearing loss is exceptionally common. If you are continuously around noise that that is over 85 decibels, your hearing might be irreversibly damaged.
Exactly How Does Noise-Related Hearing Loss Work?
This is a form of sensorineural hearing loss where hair cells inside of your inner ear are irreversibly destroyed by noise.
A progressive deterioration 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 occur if you are exposed to a burst of extremely damaging noise all at once.
Recreational and work activities account for 17% of hearing loss in individuals between the ages of 20 and 69. Some examples of noises that can cause hearing loss might include:
- Jet engines
- Motorcycles
- Sirens
- Nearby fireworks
- Construction equipment
- Chainsaws
- Busy Traffic
- Loud headphoness
Can it be Reversed?
Although scientists are making advancements, presently, there isn’t a cure for noise induced hearing loss. If you have been exposed to a loud noise, you need to see a doctor right away, because some of the long-term damage is caused by swelling in the ear. You might be able to limit the damage that occurs by reducing inflammation. Sound waves are transmitted to the brain by the little hair cells inside of the ear. They never regenerate once they are destroyed. So once they’re gone, permanent hearing impairment is the consequence. Protecting your ears, then, should be a priority, and seeing a specialist if you are currently having hearing problems.
Addressing The Problem With Research
There is presently no cure for this condition. But repairing noise-induced hearing loss is top priority for researchers. There are clinical trials, for instance, that are trying to restore these hairs with a trial drug. If scientists were able to get this drug to work, these hairs would be able to regenerate and we may be able to address noise and age induced hearing loss.
Protect Your Remaining Hearing
Noise related hearing loss can’t be cured but if you take certain steps to protect your ears, the hearing you have left can be preserved into the future. Some steps you can take include:
- Manage any hearing loss you have with hearing aids
- Keep away from places that constantly have loud noises
- Use the proper hearing protection devices, like earmuffs or earplugs if you work in places with consistently loud noises
- When you’re at home, minimize your exposure to overly loud activities
- Get tested routinely
Really, it’s best to eliminate exposure to loud noise by using hearing protection and keeping the volume down on all your devices. But if you are exposed, make an appointment for a hearing test.