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Hear Ye, Hear Ye: Protect Yourself from Harmful Sounds
Every day, our ears register the sounds around us, from the laughter on the television shows we watch, to the chirping of birds in the trees outside the window. But how much noise is too much?
How Hearing Loss Happens
Noise-induced hearing loss happens when the sounds we hear are
so loud that they damage sensitive structures in the inner ear.
The longer the exposure to excessive noise, the greater the damage.
But hearing loss can also result from even a single exposure
to a very loud sound. Any noise louder than 75 decibels is dangerous.
See examples at the right to find out if you are exposed to unhealthy
noise levels in your daily life.
Practicing Prevention
Research shows that avoiding exposure to dangerous noise levels
--and taking "rest periods" between hazardous noise
exposures -- can help prevent or lessen noise-related hearing
damage. For example, if you are attending a loud musical concert
one evening, limit your contact with other loud environments
for the rest of that day.
If you work or spend your free time in an environment where hazardous noise regularly occurs, experts advise wearing earplugs that fit inside the ear -- or earmuffs that seal the space around the outside of the ear -- to muffle the sound. But to provide protection, these products must provide a tight seal and be worn consistently. This includes whenever you mow your lawn, shoot a rifle or pistol, ride a motorcycle or snowmobile or operate power tools.
Free Hearing Screenings and Hearing
Aid Checks
Charlton Memorial Hospital, Fall River, October 10.
Call 508-679-7401 for an appointment. St. Luke's Hospital,
New Bedford, October 16. Call 508-961-5460 for an appointment.
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