Protect Your Hearing with Custom Ear Protection

Protect-Your-hearing

Protect Your Hearing 

What is Noise-Induced Hearing Loss?

Though hearing loss is usually linked with age, one main cause of hearing loss is exposure to loud noise. Approximately 10 million people in the US have permanent hearing loss from noise or trauma. In addition, 60% of veterans returning from combat zones report cases of hearing loss and tinnitus. Exposure to loud noise may occur in a single event (such as a firecracker or explosion) or slowly over an extended period of time.

Noise-induced hearing loss affects the inner ear and neural structures that process sounds in our brains. More often than not, noise-induced hearing loss is permanent. Unlike other forms of hearing loss, noise-induced hearing loss is preventable.

Dangerous Decibels

Dangerous Decibels is a public health campaign designed by scientists, researchers, educators, and public health professionals to reduce the incidence and prevalence of noise-induced hearing loss as well as tinnitus (ringing of the ears).

Based on much research, Dangerous Decibels reports that a sound 85 decibels (dB) or stronger may cause permanent damage to your hearing, and that the amount of time you listen to that sound affects how much damage it will cause. Here are a few examples of common sounds we experience, and their decibels, from Dangerous Decibels:

  • Conversations – 60 dB
  • Bulldozer that is idling (not actively bulldozing) – 85 dB (may cause permanent damage after 8 hours)
  • Music on earphones at maximum volume – 100+ dB
  • Clap of thunder – 120 dB
  • Gunshot – 140 to 190 dB

Occupational Hazards

In addition to noise we hear each day, our jobs may also be damaging our hearing. The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) estimates that approximately 30 million people in the US are occupationally exposed to hazardous noise, and that it is one of the most prevalent occupational health concerns in the past 25 years. Loud noises contribute to stress in the workplace as well. OSHA has issued standards that must be adhered to by employers that include engineering and administrative controls. For people who work in loud jobs (construction, dentistry, factory work, etc.), ear protection is necessary.

Recreational Noise

Outside of work, our recreational activities may be jeopardizing our hearing health. People who shoot guns or hut should use protective headphones or earplugs. Musicians and music lovers should be using ear protection at venues – whether big or small. Sports fans would be surprised at how loud stadiums can be – between cheering of fans and announcements over speakers. Motorcyclists are exposed to the loud sounds of their revving engines, while gardeners and hobby woodworking enthusiasts are exposed to the decibels of their power tools. Using custom ear protection in these moments may save your hearing.

Custom Ear Protection

There are many variations of custom ear protection, designed to meet the needs of the activity. For example, there are custom in-ear monitors for musicians, specialized earplugs for hunters and gun enthusiasts, and occupationally specific plugs. If you are concerned about occupational noise hazards, speak to your employers about incorporating hearing protection in the workplace. Though there are many solutions available to treat hearing loss, it is still important to protect your hearing now, with custom ear protection. 

If you are concerned about your hearing, visit us at Lifestyle Hearing Solutions for a free hearing test.

Lifestyle Hearing Solutions of Tucson
6425 E. Broadway
Tucson, AZ 85710
(520) 323-0099

Lifestyle Hearing Solutions of Oro Valley
200 W Magee Suite 100
Oro Valley, AZ, 85704
(520) 639-8760