Hearing Safety

The CDC estimates that at least 45 million people have trouble hearing with one or both ears.

While hearing loss is common as we age, as many as 40 million hearing loss cases have been caused by noise. Continual exposure to sounds 85 decibels or higher can cause hearing loss or hearing ailments like tinnitus. Those sounds include lawnmowers, fireworks, motorcycles, sporting events, concerts, movie theater speakers or playing media too loudly on your earbuds and smartphones.

Some Americans have no choice when it comes to noise exposure. The CDC estimates 22 million workers endure noise at work venues, while operating machinery and even on tarmacs at the airport. Yet 53% of noise-exposed workers don't protect their ears.

Unfortunately, hearing loss is often permanent, and even a slight change can hamper your ability to communicate with others. So, what can you do to prevent hearing loss?

• Wear ear protection in noisy environments. Choose soft, disposable foam earplugs that conform to the inner contours of the ear, or consider noise-blocking earmuffs that completely cover the ear.
• Turn down the volume. Use caution when listening to music, especially when using earbuds. Earbuds should not block out outside sounds.
• Sit away from speakers. Buy seats away from speakers at concerts, sporting events and movies.
• Get checked. According to the American Speech-Language-Hearing Association, adults younger than 40 should have their hearing tested every three to five years.
• Learn more. The National Institute on Deafness and Other Communication Disorders sponsors a public health campaign called "It's a Noisy Planet. Protect Their Hearing." There are educational materials for kids, parents, teachers and healthcare workers at https://www.noisyplanet.nidcd.nih.gov/.

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