Are Symptoms Different with Noise-Induced Hearing Loss?

Noise-induced hearing loss (NIHL) is a prevalent condition that can affect individuals exposed to excessive noise levels over an extended period or due to sudden loud noises. It is crucial to recognize the distinct symptoms associated with NIHL, as they can differ from those of other forms of hearing loss. While the signs of hearing impairment may vary depending on the severity and progression of the condition, understanding the unique characteristics of NIHL symptoms can aid in early detection and prompt intervention. The symptoms of noise-induced hearing loss may be different from other types of hearing loss.

What Is Noise-Induced Hearing Loss?

Noise-induced hearing loss occurs when loud noises damage the sensitive machinery of the middle and inner ear. High-energy sound waves disrupt the tiny, hair-like structures in the cochlea, reducing their ability to send auditory nerve information to the brain. Noise-induced hearing loss can occur in various settings. The most common is occupational. Construction workers, factory operatives and military personnel are at higher risk of the condition because they work around loud noise. DJs, musicians and rock stars also frequently get the condition.

While aging can cause damage to the ear, noise-induced hearing loss can occur at younger ages. The more you listen to loud noises and the higher the volume, the more likely it is that noise-induced hearing loss will happen. Noise-induced hearing loss can occur at any sound level above 85 decibels (dBs). At this threshold level, damage takes around eight hours, but the interval is significantly shorter once you crank up the volume.

For instance, if you use a power tool that produces 100dBs, your ears can remain undamaged for 15 minutes. However, if you listen to a loud stereo headset at 110dBs, they may only last for one minute. For noises over 140dBs, damage can be instantaneous. You may only need one or two exposures at this level to notice a significant reduction in your hearing ability.

What Are the Symptoms of Noise-Induced Hearing Loss?

The symptoms of noise-induced hearing loss are sometimes the same as regular sensorineural hearing loss, so they are difficult to tell apart. For instance, the first sign of noise-induced hearing loss is often an inability to perceive high-pitched sounds, such as violin music, birdsong or children’s voices. Hence, you may notice you can’t hear sounds at higher frequencies, even if you can perceive everything else.

The second sign is an inability to focus on someone’s speech in a crowded room with lots of background noise. You may find it hard to concentrate on their voice or tell it apart from everyone else’s. If you let noise-induced hearing loss progress, you will find it harder to listen to lower pitches, too. Eventually, you will require hearing aids with significant onboard amplification.

How Can You Tell if a Noise is Too Loud?

Unfortunately, hearing loss rarely hurts. Therefore, most people don’t know if they are exposing themselves to excessively loud noises. However, some signs indicate that the sounds around you are too loud. These include:

• Having to shout at people to be heard above the ambient noise.
• Receiving a complaint from someone next to you that they can hear your headset.
• Being unable to understand someone talking normally to you less than two feet away.

If you are concerned or believe the noises around you are too loud, wear hearing protection. Earplugs and earmuffs reduce the energy in incoming sounds, protecting your ears. If you want to learn more about the symptoms of noise-induced hearing loss talk with your audiologist.