What factors protect the ear against noise-induced hearing loss?
There are several factors which can mitigate the risk of noise-induced hearing loss. The acoustic reflex (tightening of the ossicular chain due to contraction of the muscles in the middle ear in response to high level sound) protects hearing from noise exposure to a very limited degree. The use of hearing protection such as earplugs or earmuffs reduces the risk of hearing damage from noise. Avoidance of noisy areas, limiting exposure to short periods of time, or ensuring intermittent rather than continuous exposure will mitigate the risk of hearing loss from noise. Increased public awareness of the dangers of hearing damage from noise can lead to the use of ear protectors and the avoidance of dangerous noise exposure. (14) What effect does sex have on the susceptibility to noise-induced hearing loss? Based on the results of existing research, it is not possible to conclude whether the sex of the noise-exposed person increases or decreases the risk of noise-induced hearing loss. What is
