Noise Induced Hearing Loss and Hearing Protection
Excessive noise levels over a long period of time will damage our hearing gradually and painlessly. It is so gradual that you won’t even notice the deterioration from one day to the next.
The degree of hearing loss caused by excessive noise will depend on noise levels and length of exposure to the noise. Some sudden explosive sounds such as gun shots can be loud enough to cause immediate hearing damage.
Hearing loss due to noise exposure is permanent and at this stage there are no means or medication that can reverse the damage and support your hearing health. The best and only defense against noise induced hearing loss is by wearing hearing protection when you are exposed to noise.
No matter what your age, it is never too late to start wearing hearing protection. Even if you presently have a hearing impairment, it is important that you protect your remaining hearing. Hearing loss is permanent and hearing loss can and will get worse with further unprotected exposure.
Talk to All Ears in Hearing about which form of hearing device is best suited to your needs.
When should I wear hearing protection
Noise levels can be hard to judge and depend upon the noise source. The best gauge is that if you are standing approximately 1 meter from someone and you have to yell or raise your voice to be heard above the noise, than that is a good indication of high noise levels and hearing protection should be used to reduce the risk of hearing damage.
Wearing hearing protection
Here are a few tips to ensure that you are wearing and using your hearing protection correctly.
Regularly inspect your hearing protection for any signs of damage or wear and tear (especially earmuffs). If any damage is visible, you should replace them as they will not be doing their protective job correctly.
Start to wear your hearing protection before you enter the noisy environment and stop wearing them when you have exited that environment. You can start to cancel the protective qualities of the plugs or muffs by even removing the hearing protection for the shortest period.
To ensure the best possible fit for rubber or foam protection that is inserted into the ear canal, use the hand opposite the ear you are putting the earplug into and pull your ear up and backwards and then insert the earplug. By doing this you can straighten your ear canal, ensuring a more reliable air tight seal, providing better protection.
Custom hearing protection is custom made to your ear canals therefore providing the best seal and comfort in the ears. Custom hearing protection is available for all occasions and for all uses from Industrial, music, swimming, sleeping, Ipod and mobile phones.
Frequently asked questions
What is noise-induced hearing loss?
It is hearing loss caused by too much noise over a long period. It develops gradually and painlessly, so you may not notice any change from one day to the next. How much it affects you depends on the noise level and how long you are exposed.
Can a single loud noise damage my hearing?
Yes. Some sudden explosive sounds, such as gunshots, can be loud enough to cause immediate hearing damage. If you notice a sudden change in your hearing in one or both ears, see your GP or an emergency department the same day.
How do I know when a place is loud enough to need hearing protection?
Noise is hard to judge by ear. A useful guide is this: if you are standing about one metre from someone and have to raise your voice or yell to be heard, the noise is likely high enough that hearing protection should be used.
Is noise-induced hearing loss permanent?
Yes, hearing loss from noise exposure is permanent. Wearing hearing protection around noise is the main way to guard against it. Our team can talk with you about options if you are concerned about your hearing.
Is it too late to start wearing hearing protection if I already have hearing loss?
No. It is never too late, whatever your age. Even if you already have some hearing loss, protecting your remaining hearing is important, as further unprotected noise exposure can make it worse.
How should I wear and look after my hearing protection?
Check it regularly for damage or wear, especially earmuffs, and replace anything that looks damaged. Put it on before you enter the noisy area and keep it on until you leave, because even short breaks reduce the protection.
How do I get earplugs to fit properly?
For rubber or foam plugs, use the hand opposite the ear. Pull your ear up and back to straighten the canal, then insert the plug. This helps create a more reliable seal.
What is custom hearing protection?
It is hearing protection made to fit your own ear canals, which helps with seal and comfort. It is available for many uses, including industrial work, music, swimming and sleeping. Call our team on 07 3841 3764 (Rochedale South) or 0478 282 561 (Shailer Park).