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Toxic Noise Awareness

Hearing loss afflicts approximately 28 million Americans, and approximately 10 million of these impairments are at least partially attributable to damage from exposure to loud sounds. These loud sounds are also known as toxic noise, and can be found in our everyday environments.

When hair cells in the ear are killed by exposure to loud noises, they cannot be regenerated and the result is hearing damage, and in some cases, permanent hearing loss. Without proper protection, anyone exposed to loud noise can be at risk of hearing loss.

Any sound produced at or above 85 decibels threatens to damage the ear. Normal conversation measures approximately 60 decibels and the average phone rings at about 80 decibels, but many sounds we commonly encounter register at a much higher level ? from 90 to well over 100 decibels. Toxic noise can be found in our everyday environments, including home, work, recreation, and travel.

Symptoms of Damage from Toxic Noise

Ringing or pain in ears
Sounds are muffled
Difficulty hearing quiet sounds
Feeling of fullness in ears
Awareness of transient hearing loss

Prevention

Wear ear plugs/protection when exposed to loud noises
Plug ears with fingers when “ambushed” by unexpected loud noises
Practice volume discipline when playing music, watching television, or listening to the radio ? louder isn’t better!
Have your hearing tested regularly