Noise-induced hearing loss is one of the top two leading causes of hearing loss, affecting approximately 40 million Americans between the ages of 20 and 69, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).
Noise-induced hearing loss can happen suddenly, say if you’re exposed to a loud impulse sound like a gunshot or explosion. Or, it can happen gradually — caused by regularly listening to music too loud, working in noisy environments, or using things like leaf blowers, lawn mowers, motorcycles or power tools without wearing proper hearing protection.
But noise-induced hearing loss can also be prevented — by knowing what sounds are too loud (anything above 85 decibel) and either avoiding them, limiting your exposure or proximity to them, or wearing earplugs, ear muffs or other hearing protection when around loud noises.
Today’s hearing fact identifies some common dangerous sounds. The Starkey SoundCheck app is even better: it lets you measure the decibel level in any environment you find yourself. In real time, so you never have to guess. Be smart. Be safe. And protect your hearing.
If you have questions or concerns about your hearing, we can help. Call South Suburban Hearing Health Center today!