Noise-Induced Hearing Loss

Noise-induced hearing loss is considered to be one of those chewing gum topics that, next to slip and fall accidents, appears to provide a steady living for ambulance chasing lawyers. After all, what is noise-induced hearing loss if not the gradual consequence of living in a world that is filled with sounds? There are the loudly blaring car horns that may get on the nerves of those who live in apartment buildings adjacent to major intersections. Conversely, there are the washer and dryer, the screeching screen door, and of course the noise of construction sites and other locations that affect the inner ear to such an extent that hair cells which have as their only function to change the sound into electrical stimuli that will translate what we hear to the brain, will be irreversibly damaged.

Individual susceptibility of noise induced hearing loss varies from person to person. Such noise induced hearing loss may be experienced by a one time loud sound as well as the continuous contact with noise making sources. Noise-induced hearing loss is experienced differently by individuals: some report temporary hearing loss, while others are diagnosed with permanent changes in hearing capacity. There are those who state that a permanent ringing in their ears is present while others experience vertigo. To some this noise-induced hearing loss is so severe that legal help is enlisted to receive compensation in keeping with the lost ability to earn a living. Legal briefs on occupational noise induced hearing loss quite often state that the use of proper ear safety devices was not encouraged or that machinery was not maintained properly, thus leading to an increase in noise. Noise induced hearing loss and ear buds damage appear to go hand in hand, and some odd studies have shown that noise induced hearing loss in cows is actually a real problem, much like Waardenburg Syndrome may be in ferrets.

In order to find a proper noise-induced hearing loss aid, it is imperative that the patient will undergo a complete hearing assessment by a seasoned audiologist. Understanding that noise-induced hearing loss can happen to adults as well as children, it quickly becomes obvious that all segments of the population will need to be aware of the dangers that noise can cause as well as the necessity to have your hearing checked at the first signs of hearing loss, no matter how benign it may appear. Secondly, avoid situations that will endanger you of hearing loss; for teens and young adults this does – of course – include avoiding high decibel rock concerts, while for most working adults the main danger is at the workplace. If you live near an intersection of a major thoroughfare, consider moving to a quieter neighborhood.