Hearing plays a crucial role in our daily communication, speech and language, and learning ability. Even the slightest hearing loss can affect our responses in terms of comprehension, communication, and social development.
The Singapore Workplace Safety and Health Institute reports that over 1,000 workers were diagnosed with noise-induced hearing loss (NIHL) in the past five years, accounting for 35% of the confirmed occupational disease cases. In fact, up to one in six young persons in Singapore is at risk of developing leisure NIHL from music delivered via earphones according to a study on students from Temasek Polyclinic.
Not only adults but children are also susceptible to noise-induced hearing loss when exposed to loud sounds over an extended period. Fortunately, noise-induced hearing loss is preventable and avoidable.
What is Noise-Induced Hearing Loss (NIHL)?
Noise-induced hearing loss (NIHL) is the loss of hearing caused by sudden exposure or prolonged exposure to loud sounds. It can happen when too much noise damages the hair cells in the inner ear due to excessive trauma from intense sound waves. It is one of the most common causes of hearing loss after age-related hearing loss, and the sobering fact is that it is entirely preventable with proper precautions.
The effects of noise-induced hearing loss is PERMANENT. Hearing aids may help, but they cannot reverse the effects of NIHL. That said, NIHL is preventable even as you enjoy your favourite music or concert.
What are the Causes of Noise-Induced Hearing Loss (NIHL)?
There are two predominant causes of NIHL: sudden exposure to loud noises and exposure to loud noises over an extended period. These loud noises can damage the delicate hair cells in the inner ear and the hearing nerve due to high intensity pressure waves pounding on them.
Some of the common noises that can affect your hearing include:
- Drilling and construction noises
- Loud music and gaming sounds through headphones
- Loud dance music at clubs
- Loud music at indoor gym group classes
- Loud music at live concerts
- Prolonged motorcycles and MRT trains
- Live firing during army
- Lion dance
Symptoms of Noise-Induced Hearing Loss (NIHL)
You may experience a lingering ringing sound in your ear after being exposed to loud noises. Audiologists have an inside joke that the ringing sound are the dying cries of the hair cells! After some time, the ringing sound, or tinnitus, usually goes away. However, it is likely you have sustained some level of permanent hearing loss. Here are some early signs of NIHL to look out for, especially if you are less than 60 years old:
- Persistent tinnitus and ringing sound
- Having more trouble understanding a conversation prior to the loud sound exposure
- Needing to turn the volume on the TV higher
- Having to ask people to repeat what they say
- Reduced ability to hear high-pitched sounds like bicycle bells, doorbells
- Having trouble balancing yourself
Prevention of Noise-Induced Hearing Loss (NIHL)
While noise-induced hearing loss is permanent and irreversible in most cases, it is preventable. Here are four tips to prevent gradual hearing loss due to loud noises:
1. Avoid loud noises
You can prevent noise-induced hearing loss by avoiding loud noises, such as turning down the volume of your songs or using power tools with sound controls. Doing so minimises the noise level your ear receives, thus reducing the chances of hearing loss. It is also advisable to move further away from loud sound sources, such as the speakers at a concert or the lion dance band.
2. Wear earplugs or earmuffs
When you must be around loud noises, either at work, indoor gyms or attending live concerts, wear proper earplugs or earmuffs to protect your hearing.
3. Take breaks from loud noises
You will need to take breaks from loud noises to protect your hearing from further damage. This means avoiding or limiting your exposure to deafening sounds by moving away from the source or sound system.
4. Get your hearing checked regularly
If you are constantly exposed to loud sounds or think you have hearing loss, it’s best to get your hearing tested by a hearing care professional who can advise you on the best solution for your particular condition.
The Importance of Early Intervention
As noise-induced hearing loss is permanent and irreversible but entirely preventable, it’s crucial that you recognize the dangers and avoid situations that can lead to damaged hearing hair cells and nerves.
If you are experiencing hearing loss, there are several ways to help you understand better temporarily. This includes finding the best location to enhance your hearing, alerting others of your hearing difficulty, paying attention to the conversation, and using closed captioning.
For a more feasible long-term solution, you can consider using hearing devices such as hearing aids and cochlear implants to help you hear better. Consult a hearing care professional like The Hearing Room to learn more about your options.
