It’s very common for people to have hearing loss brought on by repeated subjection to loud noise. If you are continuously exposed to noise that that is over 85 decibels, your hearing could be permanently impaired.
What is Noise-Related Hearing Loss?
This is a form of sensorineural hearing loss where hair cells in your inner ear are permanently destroyed by noise.
Noise-related hearing loss can be caused by long-term subjection to extremely high levels of noise, which causes a gradual deterioration of your hearing. Instant damage can also happen if you are exposed to a burst of extremely damaging noise all of a sudden.
More than 17 percent of individuals between the ages of 20 and 69 have hearing loss that is a result of their work or recreational activities. Some illustrations of noises that can result in hearing loss might include:
- Jackhammers
- Sirens
- Nearby fireworks
- Loud volume on earphones
- Busy Traffic
- Jet engines
- Motorcycles
- Chainsaws
Can it be Reversed?
There is presently no remedy for noise-related hearing loss (though scientists are hard at work on it). Some of the damage in your ear could be caused by swelling so you should talk to a doctor if you have been exposed to sudden loud noise. You may be capable of limiting the damage that occurs by decreasing swelling. The hair cells in your inner ear are in control of transmitting waves of sound to your brain. They never regenerate once they are ruined. Meaning that your ability to hear will be permanently impacted. This is why it is crucial that you take the required steps to protect your hearing, and if you’re exposed to a loud noise, that you consult a specialist right away.
Research to Manage The Issue
This condition is currently incurable. However, scientists are searching for ways to restore noise-induced hearing loss. For instance, some studies are in clinical trials presently that are testing whether a drug can restore the growth of these little hairs in the ear. If scientists were able to get this drug to work, these hairs would be able to restore and we might be able to address noise and age induced hearing loss.
What Hearing Remains Needs to be Safeguarded
Noise induced hearing loss can’t be healed but if you take specific steps to safeguard your ears, the hearing you have left can be protected into the future. Some things you can do include:
- Reduce your exposure to very noisy activities at home
- If there are places that always have loud noise – stay away from them
- If you work in an industry that has consistently loud noise, use the recommended hearing protection
- Get tested regularly
- Manage any hearing loss you have with hearing aids
Actually, it’s best to avoid exposure to loud noise by wearing hearing protection and keeping the volume down on all your devices. But if you are exposed, make an appointment for a hearing test.