How to Protect Your Hearing

Noise-induced hearing loss (NIHL) occurs when loud and long-lasting sound damages the sensitive structures in the inner ear. We hear sound every day in our normal environment. The television or radio playing. Household appliances buzz and whirl. The noise of traffic inundates our morning and after-work commutes.

Normally we receive these sounds at safe levels. But if these sounds tend to be louder and last longer than normal — say you’re blasting the radio on your way home from work because your favorite song is on and a jackhammer is pounding away at a nearby construction site AND you’re stuck in traffic, hearing both noises (including some invariable honking), chances are you’re putting yourself at risk for NIHL.

It seems like the above scenario is a stretch (and perhaps it is), but the important aspect about NIHL to know is that an individual can develop it immediately. It can also take time for an individual to notice. The damage can be temporary or permanent and can affect one or both ears.

To help prevent exposure to developing NIHL, consider these tips and tricks that can help protect your ears from this form of hearing loss.

1. In loud environments, wear earplugs or earmuffs.
2. Turn down the music. If it’s uncomfortable to listen to or you can’t hear external sounds while wearing headphones, your music is too loud.
3. Employ the 60:60 rule. For iPods or other MP3 players, listen to music through earbuds or headphones at 60 percent of the volume for no more than 60 minutes a day.
4. Wear headphones. Headphones are more effective at canceling out background noise than earbuds are, requiring a lower volume overall while you enjoy your favorite tunes or podcast.
5. Turn down the dial. Does your TV really need to be that loud? Even a small reduction in volume can reduce the risk of damage to your hearing. If you have to raise your voice over the volume to speak, the television is too loud.
6. Wear earplugs at concerts. Earplugs can reduce the sound of a concert by 15-35 dB. They’re typically available at most concerts and won’t spoil the fun of the show.
7. Make work a safe place. If you work in an incredibly loud or noisy environment, such as on a construction site, factory or in a stadium, talk to your human resources department or your manager for advice on reducing your exposure to the noise.

If you’re concerned you might already be suffering from NIHL or need more advice when selecting proper hearing protection, contact an audiologist in your area today!