What is a decibel?
A decibel (dB) is the unit of measurement used to describe sound. For perspective, the dB levels of some common sounds are listed below.
Normal breathing 10dB
Standard Telephone 12dB
Average Amplified Telephone 35dB
Normal In-Person Conversation 60dB
Vacuum Cleaner/Hair Dryer 70dB
Motorcycle/Lawn Mower 90dB
Garbage Truck 100dB
Rock Concert 110dB
Shotgun Firing 130dB
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.
How can I protect my hearing?
The most important thing you can do to prevent noise-induced hearing loss is to be aware of the sound levels to which you're exposing your ears and to recognize when sound levels are within a dangerous decibel range. If you find that you are exposed to a dangerous sound level, it is very important to use some type of hearing protection if you cannot avoid the noisy environment.
How do I know if a sound is too loud?
If, after noise exposure, you experience a ringing in your ears, or sounds seem muffled, then you have definitely subjected your ears to dangerous sound levels and may or may not have caused some permanent hearing loss. The general rule of thumb is that if you have to shout to be heard from three feet away, it's too loud.
Is noise-induced hearing loss reversible?
No. Noise-induced hearing loss is permanent. Don't ignore the warning signs of noise exposure and have your hearing checked regularly to recognize hearing loss as early as possible. Remember, noise-induced hearing loss is completely preventable if you take the necessary steps to protect your hearing.
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