Noise-related hearing loss is very common. Your hearing can be permanently damaged if you spend a lot of time exposed to noise that is higher than 85 dB.
Exactly How Does Noise-Induced Hearing Loss Work?
This is a form of sensorineural hearing loss where hair cells inside of your inner ear are irreversibly damaged by noise.
A gradual degeneration of hearing, eventually bringing about permanent hearing loss, develops when you are exposed to very loud noise for a long period of time. It can also be caused by a single instance of a loud burst of noise that can immediately cause hearing loss.
Over 17 percent of individuals between the ages of 20 and 69 have hearing loss that is caused by their work or recreational activities. Here are some examples of noises that can result in hearing loss:
- Motorcycles
- Chainsaws
- Nearby fireworks
- Jet engines
- Busy Traffic
- Construction equipment
- Loud headphoness
- Sirens
Can it be Reversed?
There is presently no remedy for noise-related hearing loss (although scientists are working on it). Some of the damage inside your ear could be caused by inflammation so you should consult a doctor if you’ve been subjected to sudden loud noise. If you could reduce the swelling you may be capable of reducing some permanent damage. The hair cells inside of your inner ear are in control of sending waves of sound to your brain. They never regenerate once they are ruined. This means that your ability to hear will be permanently impacted. This is why it is critical that you take the required steps to safeguard your hearing, and if you’re exposed to a loud noise, that you consult a specialist right away.
Addressing The Issue With Research
There is presently no cure for this condition. But repairing noise-related hearing loss is top priority for scientists. For example, some studies are in clinical trials presently that are testing whether a drug can repair the growth of these tiny hairs in the ear. If scientists were capable of getting this drug to work, these hairs would be able to restore and we may be able to overcome noise and age related hearing loss.
Protect Your Remaining Hearing
Noise related hearing loss can’t be cured but if you take certain steps to safeguard your ears, the hearing you have left can be protected into the future. You can:
- Limit your exposure to exceedingly noisy activities at home
- Whatever your hearing loss may be, hearing aids could be the solution
- Get tested routinely
- Use the proper hearing protection devices, like earplugs or earmuffs if you work in places with consistently loud noises
- If there are areas that always have loud noise – stay away from them
Lowering the volume on your devices, using ear protection, and staying away from overly loud noise is the best way to safeguard your hearing. But if you are exposed, schedule a hearing test.