What is noise induced hearing loss?
Noise induced hearing loss (NIHL) results after prolonged or repeated exposure to dangerous sound levels. Any sounds in excess of 90dB have the potential to cause permanent hearing loss based on the amount of time you are exposed to that sound. Exposure to loud sound levels damages both the sensitive hair cells of the inner ear and the hearing nerve, and symptoms of NIHL often include tinnitus, muffled sounds, or difficulty understanding speech. NIHL is permanent, but preventable.