How loud is “Too Loud”?

By On September 29, 2013 · Leave a Comment

They say if you think the music is too loud, you’re too old. So, how bad can loud noises be?

A whisper clocks in at 30 dB (dB refers to decibels, a measure of the intensity of sound), while a normal conversation is around 60 dB. Beyond 90 dB, prolonged exposure can cause hearing loss.

They say if you think the music is too loud, you’re too old. So, how bad can loud noises be?

A whisper clocks in at 30 dB (dB refers to decibels, a measure of the intensity of sound), while a normal conversation is around 60 dB. Beyond 90 dB, prolonged exposure can cause hearing loss.
After 125 dB, you feel pain.

Noise Induced Hearing Loss (NIHL)

NIHL is hearing loss brought on by too much exposure to loud noises, which can damage the hair cells (receptors used in hearing and balance) in the inner ear (cochlea). Hair cells are small sensory cells that convert sound energy into electrical signals that travel to the brain. These cells are what allow us to process noise and make sense of it. Hence, they are important.

These hair cells do not regenerate. Once damaged, they don’t come back.

Causes of NIHL

Some everyday causes are music players and video games. It also can be caused by a one-time exposure to a very loud sound (also known as impulse noise), such as an explosion or thunderclap.

Other causes:

  • Loud music, from live musical performances stereo systems.
  • Industrial sounds, such as traffic, sirens, machinery or power tools.
  • Severe physical injury that may rupture the eardrum e.g. :
  • A physical strike to the side of the head.
  • An explosive sound near the ear; e.g. when an air bag is set off during a motor vehicle accident.
  • Rapid changes in environmental pressure, e.g. underwater diving or descending in an airplane. This is also known as Barotrauma

Symptoms

People with hearing loss may initially be aware of it when they stop hearing high-frequency sounds, such as bells and chimes. Over time, lower-frequency sounds, such as voices, may also escape their hearing.

NIHL may be accompanied by Tinnitus—a ringing in the ears or head. Exposure to impulse and continuous noise may cause only a temporary hearing loss.

Can NIHL be prevented?

Yes. To protect hearing:

  • Know that noises at or above 85 decibels are harmful. Avoid them. Examples include construction sites, drills, and large engines.
  • Wear hearing protective devices when involved in a loud activity. Examples include earplugs and headphones.
  • Protect the ears of children, and educate them on preventive measures.
  • If you suspect hearing loss, consult an ENT specialist, or otolaryngologist (a physician who specializes in diseases of the ears, nose, throat, head, and neck) and a hearing test by an audiologist (a health professional trained to measure and help individuals deal with hearing loss).

Hearing loss may be temporary, but long-term exposure to loud noises may permanent hearing loss. All individuals should understand the hazards of noise and how to practice good hearing health in everyday life.

It’s better to be safe than sorry.

 

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