Hearing loss caused by exposure to loud noise is entirely preventable, yet it continues to be a widespread problem. Noise-induced hearing loss can be caused by a one-time exposure to an extremely loud sound or by prolonged exposure to sounds at various loud volumes over an extended period. The dangers are real at rock concerts, construction sites, airports, and even using loud appliances like lawnmowers. The good news is that noise-induced hearing loss is preventable with knowledge, awareness, and preventative measures.
How Loud is Too Loud?
Noise-induced hearing loss happens gradually as listening to loud noises destroys the microscopic hair cells in the inner ear that convert sounds into signals transmitted to the brain. The louder the noise, the quicker the damage. Sounds below 75 decibels (similar to a running refrigerator) are unlikely to cause hearing damage. Prolonged exposure to noises above 85 decibels (like heavy city traffic or a loud restaurant) can cause gradual hearing loss over time. Noises above 120 decibels (a jet plane taking off nearby) can immediately damage hearing after even brief exposures. If you are worried that your hearing is already damaged, it’s a good idea to book a hearing test. Find out more about hearing tests & hearing aids in Bangor and other areas here.
Check the Decibel Level
A helpful way to determine if noise levels are dangerous to hearing is by using a decibel meter app on smartphones. This allows you to measure the loudness of various noises. Remember that the longer the duration of an exposure to loud noise, the higher the risk. Even noises in the 85-120 decibel range can seem deceptively tolerable, when in fact they are damaging hearing over time. Take decibel readings of activities, appliances, machinery and venues you are regularly exposed to. Consider alternate options or hearing protection methods if readings are consistently high.
Protect Your Hearing at Concerts
Music concerts can range from 100 to 110 decibels, with some reaching even higher volumes. Earplugs are an absolute must for concertgoers, especially for extended festival events with prolonged exposure. Choose earplugs specially designed for listening to music that lower decibel levels without muffling sound quality. Take regular listening breaks by exiting very loud areas for periods of time. Sit further back from stages and speakers when possible to reduce volume intensity. Limit the number of loud concerts you attend every year to give ears occasional rest. Consider enjoying some performances from lawn seating farther from the stage.
Use Caution with Headphones
Listening to portable music players through earbuds or headphones at maximum volume can damage hearing over time. Keep the volume below 60% and restrict listening to under 60 minutes daily. Instead of drowning out external noise by cranking up the volume, opt for well-fitting, noise-cancelling earbuds that block ambient sounds. This allows lower, safer volume levels. Take listening breaks and be cautious of signs of ear discomfort like ringing (tinnitus) after use. Keep aural health in mind by limiting volume and daily headphone use.
Wear Hearing Protection
People who work in persistently noisy environments like construction, manufacturing, airports or road crews require proper hearing protection. Choose protective earmuffs, disposable foam ear plugs or specialised electronic earmuffs depending on the work environment. For more casual but still risky noise like operating loud machinery and equipment, simple and inexpensive foam earplugs can make a big difference. Be vigilant about properly inserting them and wearing them for the entirety of the noisy activity. Make hearing protection gear mandatory for yourself and those around hazardous occupational or recreational noise.
In our noisy modern world, hearing protection efforts are incredibly important. These tips can all help safeguard your hearing health. Everyone from rock stars to landscapers must make prevention of noise-induced hearing loss a priority.