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If your ears have ever felt clogged after attending a loud concert, or you’ve heard a ringing after setting off fireworks, you may have experienced noise-induced hearing loss (NIHL). Your ears are delicate instruments and are susceptible to damage from everything from loud noises to physical impact. Glacier Ear Nose & Throat and Glacier Hearing Service in Kalispell, MT, has helped Flathead area residents with hearing loss for more than 30 years. They’re here to explain what NIHL is and what you can do about it. 

Guide to Noise-Induced Hearing Loss 

What Is Noise-Induced Hearing Loss?

Noise-induced hearing loss is common, affecting about 24% of Americans ages 20 to 69. It can be temporary or permanent and affects one or both ears. People with this condition typically have difficulty hearing high frequencies and understanding speech. They may need to turn up the TV to a high volume and have trouble distinguishing a conversation from background noise. 

What Causes It?

hearinglossHearing loss can occur as a result of short or long-term exposure to loud noises, which can damage the sensory hair cells in the inner ear. Unfortunately, the damage can’t be reversed. Typically, short-term exposure, such as attending a concert or being in close range of a gunshot, results in a temporary hearing loss, although the damage can compound over time with repeated exposure. 

People who work in loud environments, such as industrial warehouses, woodworking shops, or live entertainment venues are particularly vulnerable. Aside from work, other everyday activities can put you at risk of hearing loss, including listening through earbuds or headphones at high volumes, playing in a band, attending loud concerts, riding loud vehicles such as motorcycles, and being around loud noises such as lawnmowers for extended periods. 

If you’ve experienced changes in your hearing, see an audiology specialist as soon as possible. If you’re a Flathead resident, turn to the hearing loss specialists at Glacier Ear Nose & Throat & Glacier Hearing Service. Offering a broad range of preventative and restorative treatments for ear, nose, and throat issues, there’s no one better to trust with your health. Call (406) 752-8330 to speak with a friendly staff member, or visit their website to learn more.

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