Newswise — Noise is one of the most common causes of hearing loss, and one of the most common occupational illnesses in the United States. Hearing loss can occur gradually over time as a result of continuous noise exposure, but it can also result from a single exposure to a sound of high intensity. “A single shot from a large caliber firearm or firecracker, experienced at close range, may permanently damage your hearing in an instant,” says Candace Blank, AuD, Loyola University Medical Center.
According to the National Institute on Deafness and Other Communication Disorders:• 10 million Americans have already suffered irreversible hearing damage from noise• 26 million Americans between the ages of 20-69 have high-frequency hearing loss from overexposure to loud noised and work or during leisure activities• 30 to 50 million more are exposed to dangerous noise levels each day
Dr. Blank offers these tips to protect your hearing this summer holiday season:
• Wear earplugs. “When you know you are going to an event with loud noise, use hearing protection. Inexpensive foam earplugs, obtained at most drug stores, can do the job if properly inserted. When inserted to obtain a snug fit, loud noise will be attenuated to safer levels and yet you can still hear and understand the conversation around you. They come in adult and children’s sizes. However, it is prudent to make sure there is not excessive ear wax in your child’s ears prior to insertion, so that you do not end up pushing the wax further in. If uncertain, or if your child is under age seven, then hearing protection earmuffs may be a better option.”
• Babies are vulnerable. “Infants may be particularly vulnerable to loud noise. There are several brands of baby earmuffs that can be obtained online.”
• Watch hearing devices. “Hearing aids are designed to automatically attenuate loud sounds. Hearing protection is recommended for everyone if the sounds are uncomfortably loud.”
• Stay away from loud noises. “Keep a safe distance of at least 500 feet from fireworks. Any noise above 85 decibels is considered unsafe if exposed for long periods of time. Most fireworks can reach as high as 125 -155 decibels and there is a risk of immediate sudden and permanent hearing loss if too close. Use hearing protection. ”
• Avoid firecrackers. “Leave the fireworks to the professionals and enjoy the show, and do not allow individuals in your family to play with firecrackers.”
• Limit your exposure time. “Fun activities of summer can involve potentially dangerous noise levels: motor boats, sirens at parades, indoor and outdoor concerts, sporting events.
Hearing loss can occur to people of all ages. If you feel you may have damaged your hearing, seek professional help from an audiologist. Audiologists at Loyola have masters and doctorate degrees in diagnoses and management of hearing disorders.
Dr. Blank says these are the common symptoms of hearing damage:
• Muffled hearing. “If you have difficulty understanding speech after exposure to noise, as if they sound muffled or mumbling, then you may have temporary or permanent hearing loss.
• Continuous noise. “Ringing or buzzing in the ears after exposure to noise is a sign of hearing damage.”
• It hurts. “Pain in the ears after exposure to noise is a sign of trouble.”
“Untreated hearing loss is linked to a wide range of health issues including anxiety, anger, increased brain shrinkage, dementia and increased falls,” says Dr. Blank. “Hearing loss also results in reduced income and diminished overall health.”
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