What causes noise-induced hearing loss?
• Loudness of a sound (decibels) • Pitch of a sound • Length of exposure The loudness of a sound and the length of exposure are directly related. The louder the sound, the shorter the time it takes to damage hearing. Sound levels of less than 75 decibels are unlikely to cause permanent hearing loss. Sound levels above 85 decibels can be dangerous after prolonged exposure. Repeated, prolonged exposure (more than eight hours) to noise above 90 decibels (motorcycles and lawn mowers) can cause gradual hearing loss. Rock concerts generate sound levels between 110 and 140 decibels and can cause damage in less than 15 minutes. Some of the hearing damage is reversible, but repeated and prolonged exposures to excessive noise can result in permanent damage. What are the danger signs of noise-induced hearing loss? • Ringing or buzzing in the ears • Difficulty understanding speech • Slight muffling of sounds • Difficulty understanding speech in noisy places or places with poor acoustics. • Shoutin
