Did you know that people of all ages can develop noise-induced hearing loss? Hearing loss from too much noise can happen in an instant or build over time, and it can’t be fixed. Speech and Hearing Associatesencourages everyone to learn about noise-induced hearing loss, a preventable type of hearing loss.
A recent study by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), with support from the NIDCD, shows that based on certain features of their hearing test results, at least 10 million adults in the U.S. (6 percent of the population) under age 70—and perhaps as many as 40 million adults (24 percent)—may have tinnitus and hearing loss from noise in one or both ears. The good news is that you can take steps to protect your hearing:
- Move away from the noise. If you can’t lower the volume, put some distance between you and the source.
- Lower the volume. Know which noises can cause damage (those at or above 85 decibels), such as listening through headphones at a high volume.
- Wear hearing protectors, such as earplugs, earmuffs, or custom molded ear plugs when involved in a loud activity.
- Protect the ears of children who are too young to protect their own.
- Tell family, friends, and colleagues about noise hazards.
Speech and Hearing Associates provides custom ear plugs, sound-limiting headphones, and tinnitus management solutions. Contact us at 1-800-742-7551 for more information or to make an appointment today.