Avoid Hearing Loss From Loud Noise

Too much exposure to loud noise can lead to hearing loss in people of all ages. The sound of fireworks, lawnmowers, power tools, loud cheering at sports arenas, and live music concerts are just some of the loud noises that can damage hearing.

A single loud noise close to the ear, such as a firecracker exploding or a loud boom, can cause hearing loss. It can also result from repeated exposure to loud sounds over time.

If you have to shout to be heard over the noise, the noise is loud enough to damage your hearing.

Hearing loss in children can affect their communication, language development and social skills. This can lead to difficulty in school. For adults, working in a noisy environment around loud power tools or machinery can lead to permanent hearing damage.

You may face an increased risk of hearing loss due to loud noise if you have a family history of hearing loss, have a chronic health condition  such as diabetes or high blood pressure, have had injuries to your ear, or if you are taking certain medications.

Protect Your Hearing by:

• Turning down the volume
• Walking away from loud noise
• Taking breaks from the noise
• Avoiding loud, noisy activities and places

When you cannot avoid loud noises, use hearing protection devices such as earplugs molded to fit your ear or earmuffs.

Signs of Hearing Loss:

• Sounds seem muffled and/or trouble hearing high-pitched sounds
• Difficulty following conversations in a busy restaurant or other noisy environment
• Trouble understanding speech over the phone
• Turning up the volume on the television or radio
• Ringing in the ears
• Certain sounds create pain

There is no medical treatment that will reverse noise-induced hearing loss. If you think you are losing your hearing due to noise, contact your doctor and take steps to protect your hearing as much as possible to prevent further hearing loss.