Sounds are all around us in our environments. Most sounds such as the television, phone ringing or household appliances may be at a safe level in terms of volume, however, sounds can be harmful when they are too loud. These sounds can damage sensitive structures in our inner ear, which can cause noise-induced hearing loss. This can be temporary or permanent damage of the inner ear, depending on the type of noise and length of time you were exposed to that loud sound.
Sounds are all around us in our environments. Most sounds such as the television, phone ringing or household appliances may be at a safe level in terms of volume, however, sounds can be harmful when they are too loud. These sounds can damage sensitive structures in our inner ear, which can cause noise-induced hearing loss. This can be temporary or permanent damage of the inner ear, depending on the type of noise and length of time you were exposed to that loud sound.
How do we hear?
How do we hear?
There are a series of events that occur before we hear. Sound waves enter our outer ear and travel down the ear canal to the eardrum. The sound wave hits our eardrum causing the eardrum to vibrate. This vibration sets three bones behind the eardrum into motion. These tiny bones of the middle ear are called ossicles (malleus, incus, and stapes). The ossicles vibrate and in turn, create movement of the fluid in the inner ear. The snail like structure of the inner ear is called the “cochlea”. Once the fluid of the cochlea is set into motion, changes in the tiny hair cells of the inner ear are in effect. The movement of the hair cells send electrical signals from the inner ear up the auditory nerve to the brain. The brain then interprets the electrical signals as sound.
Most noise-induced hearing loss is caused by damage to the hair cells of the inner ear. If you are exposed to loud sounds slowly, you may gradually lose your hearing. Since noise-induced hearing loss can occur over time, individuals might not notice it and may ignore the signs of hearing loss until they become more pronounced. Over time, sounds may be distorted, muffled, or the individual may find it difficult to understand people talking. Alternatively, exposure to one loud burst of sound, such as an explosion or gunshot can rupture the eardrum, which can cause immediate permanent hearing loss. Loud noise exposure can cause tinnitus, which is the perception of ringing or buzzing in the ears/head, when no external sound is present.
How can you prevent Noise-Induced Hearing loss?
How can you prevent Noise-Induced Hearing loss?
How can you prevent Noise-Induced Hearing loss?
If you have any questions, please contact HEARING HEALTHCARE of East Gwillimburyand book a complimentary hearing test today!
If you have any questions, please contact HEARING HEALTHCARE of East Gwillimburyand book a complimentary hearing test today!
Call (905) 478-2929
Call (905) 478-2929
Additional resource:
Additional resource:
Canadian Centre for Occupational Health and Safety