One of the most common hearing-related issues audiologists treat is noise-induced hearing loss. This condition occurs when a person is exposed to an extremely loud noise that causes the delicate structures inside the ear to become damaged, which causes difficulty hearing properly. Below is an overview of how loud sounds can damage one's hearing and how an audiologist can help.

Exposure

With noise-induced hearing loss, the sound that caused the impairment may have been a single event, such as a loud explosion, or a continuous exposure to noise over a long period of time, such as working in a loud factory every day. The longer a person is exposed to any sound over 85 decibels, the higher the likelihood of harm. And the higher the decibel level, the less time required to damage one's hearing.

Hair Cells

When loud noise produces hearing issues, it is the hair cells deep within the ear that weaken and, eventually, die. Sound enters the ear canal and travels to the eardrum, where it vibrates into the middle ear. From there, the sound vibrations meet fluid vibrations in the cochlea of the inner ear, causing ripples to form on the basilar membrane, which is topped with sensory cells called hair cells. The ripple becomes a tiny wave that the hair cells send along a nerve impulse to the brain that in turn processes the sound. Without hair cells, sound cannot be effectively deciphered by the brain. When hair cells die off, they do not regenerate.

Prevention

To avoid noise-induced hearing loss, wear earplugs and other protective devices when you know you have to be around loud noises. If this isn't possible, move as far away as you can from the noise. Be especially mindful of any children who are also in the vicinity as their young and developing ears are extremely sensitive and can be easily damaged without proper protection.

How an Audiologist Can Help

An audiologist will work with you to determine the cause and extent of your hearing loss and then develop a treatment plan based on their findings. There are many different hearing tests an audiologist might run that can give valuable insights into your condition. They will ensure you understand how to prevent future hearing issues, and, if necessary, they can introduce you to any number of assistive devices that will make hearing easier.

Knowing some basics of noise-induced hearing loss will make you a proactive part of your treatment. If you've developed hearing issues from exposure to loud noise, see an audiologist as soon as possible to preserve your hearing and find viable treatment solutions. Anthony Durig Audiology serves the Stow and Niles, OH, areas and provides hearing testing and treatment, as well as hearing assistive devices. Schedule an appointment by calling (330) 688-4115.