Around 13 percent of Americans — or about 30 million — over the age of 12 have some degree of hearing loss in both ears. Numerous factors can contribute to hearing loss, like age, illness, or excess noise. But while we can't stop time or avoid every illness, we can take steps to protect our hearing when the volume gets a little too loud.
According to NYU Langone Health, prolonged exposure to loud noises can damage the fine hair cells in the inner ear that convert sound waves into electrical signals that our brains can process. Sounds at or below 70 decibels — or about the volume of a normal conversation — are considered safe for any period of time. Extended or repeated exposure to sounds above 85 decibels are known to cause hearing loss and tinnitus.
Most of us surpass that 85 decibel threshold regularly. Lawnmowers range between 80 and 100 decibels, and sporting events or concerts can blast attendees with 100 decibels or more. An emergency siren measures at an ear-splitting 110 to 129, and fireworks can go as high as 160. And your innocuous little earbuds that you might wear for hours each day as you listen to music or chat on the phone can easily exceed 85 decibels, especially if you crank up the volume to compensate for noisy environments.
Ways to protect your hearing:
* Turn the volume down on your devices and, if possible, use hearing protection software to automatically regulate the volume.
* Wear noise-canceling headphones instead of cranking the volume on regular headphones or earbuds.
* Limit your exposure to very loud noises. Don't attend too many loud concerts, and when you do, keep your distance from speakers.
* Protect your hearing against everyday loud noises. Keep some inexpensive earplugs handy and don't hesitate to use them on noisy flights, when the gym gets too loud, or even during your kid's soccer game.
* Don't skip hearing protection on the job. If your job exposes you to loud noises, make sure to follow time limits for exposure and use effective ear protection that is in good condition.
