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It is estimated that over 50 million people are exposed to sounds that could harm their hearing. Nearly 1 in 5 people have some degree of impaired hearing, making hearing loss the third most common chronic medical condition people live with today. Exposure to loud noise is a major cause of hearing loss which can affect daily life in significant ways. We are constantly absorbing and exposed to varying types and levels of noise. Some of this noise may be harmful to hearing health. It is important to be aware of the noise levels you are surrounded by and to practice safety measures to mitigate the impact it can have. Noise induced hearing loss is preventable and integrating recommended practices cna protect your hearing health.
Understanding Noise Induced Hearing Loss
One time or regular exposure to loud noise can permanently damage the auditory system which is the sensory system for hearing. Specifically, loud noise can impair the sensory cells that are in the inner ear. There are thousands of sensory cells in the inner ear and these cells play a major role in how sound is processed. They act as receptors, receiving sound waves and converting them into electronic signals that are sent to the brain. Specific areas of the brain then further process these signals which includes assigning meaning to the sound we hear. This process can be disrupted by damage incurred through loud noise exposure.
Loud noise can desensitize and weaken sensory cells, reducing their capacity to process soundwaves effectively. This causes the brain to receive less auditory information, making it harder to hear and process sound. Unlike other types of cells we have, sensory cells in the inner ear do not regenerate. There are also no ways to repair or replenish these cells which means that any damage they experience is permanent. This causes permanent noise induced hearing loss, a chronic type of hearing loss that produces various symptoms. These symptoms strain communication and can impact relationships, social life, as well as overall hatch.
How Loud is Too Loud?
Sound is measured in decibels and noise above 85dB can be hazardous for hearing health. For perspective, this is equivalent to a hair dryer or city traffic. People can be exposed to 85dB for 8 hours a day without damaging their hearing and this is the maximum threshold. For sound that exceeds 85dB, exposure time should be reduced significantly. According to the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health, exposure time to noise above 85dB should be reduced by half for every 3 decibel increase of noise above:
- 85dB: 8 hours
- 88dB: 4 hours
- 91dB: 2 hours
- 94dB: 1 hour
- 97dB: 30min
Surpassing these thresholds can irreparably damage the auditory system. Take a moment to think about the types of noises you are exposed to daily, what of these sounds are louder than a hair dryer?
Sounds That Could Harm Hearing
There are lots of sounds that you likely experience regularly that are near or surpass 85dB. Everyday sounds that could harm your hearing include the following:
- Household appliances.
- hair dryer, blender, food processor: 80-90dB
- lawn mower, leaf blower, vacuum cleaner: 90+dB
- power tools (chainsaws, handrills): 100dB
- Work environments. According to the Hearing Health Foundation, 30 million people are exposed to hazardous noise levels in the workplace.
- Modes of transportation:
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- Airplane engines: 140 dB
- Motorcycles: 80-100dB
- Snowmobiles: 85-100dB
- Emergency vehicle siren: 110-120dB
- Social activities. Various types of social activities can also be a source of loud noise exposure. This includes concerts, noisy restaurants or bars, sports arenas, gun ranges etc.
- Electronic Devices: Using earbuds or headphones is a common way to listen to audio like podcasts and music. Depending on the device, noise levels can reach up to 100dB.
These everyday activities can be harmful to your hearing. This highlights the importance of practicing safety measures to protect your hearing health.
Tips to Protect Your Hearing Health
Noise induced hearing loss is completely preventable. Integrating the following tips in your everyday life can protect your hearing:
- Wear hearing protection: headphones, earplugs, earmuffs etc.
- Reduce loud noise exposure: take listening breaks throughout the day, avoid noisy settings and opt for quieter environments, maintain low volume settings on electronic devices.
- Test hearing: getting your hearing tested regularly allows you to monitor your hearing health.
Contact us today to schedule an appointment for a hearing consultation and to learn more about protecting your hearing health.