Noise-induced hearing loss is exceptionally common. If you are continuously exposed to noise that that is over 85 decibels, your hearing might be irreversibly damaged.
What is Noise-Induced 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 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 cause loss of hearing.
Work and recreational activities are responsible for 17% of hearing loss in individuals between the ages of 20 and 69. Here are a few examples of noises that can lead to hearing loss:
- Loud volume on earphones
- Jet engines
- Construction equipment
- Motorcycles
- Nearby fireworks
- Chainsaws
- Emergency Vehicles
- Busy Traffic
Can it be Reversed?
Although scientists are making advancements, presently, there isn’t a cure for noise related hearing loss. If you have been exposed to a loud noise, you need to consult a doctor as soon as possible, because some of the long-term damage is caused by inflammation in the ear. You might be capable of limiting the damage that develops by reducing swelling. The hair cells in your inner ear are responsible for transmitting waves of sound to your brain. If noise damages or kills them, they are unable to regenerate. So once they’re gone, irreversible hearing impairment is the consequence. Safeguarding your ears, then, should be top priority, and consulting a specialist if you are presently having hearing problems.
Research to Manage The Issue
There is presently no cure for this condition. However, scientists are looking for ways to repair noise-induced hearing loss. For example, some studies are in clinical trials right now that are evaluating whether a drug can restore the growth of the little hairs in the ear. Age-related hearing loss and loud noise can damage these hairs, but regrowth would help repair hearing if researchers are able to get the drug to work.
Safeguard Your Remaining Hearing
Noise induced 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. You can:
- Limit your exposure to very noisy activities at home
- Keep away from areas that regularly have loud noises
- Get tested routinely
- Treat any hearing loss you have with hearing aids
- If you work in an occupation that has persistently loud noise, use the appropriate hearing protection
Lowering the volume on your devices, wearing ear protection, and avoiding overly loud noise is the best way to protect your hearing. But if you are exposed, schedule a hearing test.