Whether brief or long-lasting, loud sounds can cause noise-induced hearing loss (NIHL). NIHL can occur immediately or gradually, it can be temporary or permanent, and it can affect one or both ears. The National Institute on Deafness and other Communication Disorders (NIDCD) says that NIHL can be caused by a one-time exposure to an intense “impulse” sound, such as an explosion, or by continuous exposure to loud sounds, such as noise generated in a woodworking shop. Long or repeated exposure to sounds at or above 85 decibels can cause hearing loss.
NIHL is the only type of hearing loss that is completely preventable, NIDCD says. If you understand the hazards of noise and how to practice good hearing health, you can protect your hearing for life. Here’s how: