Tips on how to prevent hearing loss and maintain good hearing
Noise-induced hearing loss is the most common cause of hearing loss. It is often permanent, but preventable! The National Institute of Health reports that 10 million Americans have already suffered hearing damage from loud sounds. In addition, another 30 million are exposed to dangerous levels of noise each day.
We live in a very noisy world. Here are some facts regarding the loudness of sounds, and the amount of time most people can be around it before hearing loss occurs:
Blender = 90 dB Damage to hearing begins after 2 hours
Stereo / Headphones = 100 dB Damage to hearing begins after just 15 minutes
Shotgun = 160 dB Damage to hearing: immediately
Safe levels of everyday sounds:
Whisper = 30 dB
Conversations = 60 dB
Here are some ideas to reduce ear damage from noise exposure:
1. Be aware of noises that are ‘too loud’, ‘too close’ or ‘last too long’.
2. Use hearing protection when exposed to dangerous levels of sound. This includes at work, or at home such as when using power tools or listening to music.
3. Turn the volume on the electronic device down. Good rule of thumb: “60/60”. Listen at 60% volume for no more than 60 minutes at a time.
4. Watch for signs of hearing loss such as ringing in the ears, trouble understanding speech, and a blocked feeing in the ears. You may notice more problem hearing and understanding in noise.
Contact hi HealthInnovations to schedule a hearing test 1-855-523-9355 with Clarissa Jones M.S., FAAA.