Noise-induced hearing loss develops gradually from repeated exposure to loud sound in workplaces or recreational settings and is a permanent condition. Protecting your hearing early and seeking help when needed can prevent further damage and improve communication with hearing aids if required.
Noise induced hearing loss
Noise induced hearing loss (NIHL) is a gradual loss of hearing that occurs after repeated exposure to excessive sound. This can occur in the workplace or in a recreational environment such as out hunting or at a music concert. We can safely be exposed to 8 hrs of noise @ 85 dB but once noise reaches levels of 100 dB, damage can occur in minutes.
Symptoms of noise induced hearing loss include:
- High pitched sounds are difficult to hear
- May sound like people are mumbling
- Hard to hear “sh”, “s”, “th” and “f” sounds
- Hearing is similar in both ears
- Tinnitus
NIHL is permanent but it is important to protect yourself from further damage with the use of earplugs or earmuffs when in noise.
If you think you have suffered a NIHL and you are ready to reconnect with family and friends hearing aids can help.
ACC can also help - it is possible to access funding from ACC.
Get in touch with Bellbird Hearing to get the process started.