Is Noise-Related Hearing Loss Irreversible?

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It’s very common for people to have loss of hearing caused by repeated exposure to loud noise. If you are constantly exposed to noise that exceeds 85 decibels, your hearing may be permanently damaged.

Exactly How Does Noise-Induced Hearing Loss Work?

This is a kind of sensorineural hearing loss where hair cells in your inner ear are permanently destroyed by noise.

Noise-related hearing loss can be brought on by long-term subjection to extremely high levels of noise, which causes a gradual degeneration of your hearing. Instant damage can also happen if you are subjected to a burst of extremely damaging noise all of a sudden.

Work and recreational activities are responsible for 17% of hearing loss in individuals between 20 and 69. Some examples of noises that can result in hearing loss might include:

  • Chainsaws
  • Busy Traffic
  • Loud volume on earphones
  • Sirens
  • Jet engines
  • Nearby fireworks
  • Motorcycles
  • Jackhammers

Can it be Reversed?

There is currently no remedy for noise-related hearing loss (though scientists are hard at work on it). If you have been subjected to a loud noise, you should see a doctor as soon as possible, because some of the long-term damage is due to swelling in the ear. You may be capable of limiting the damage that develops by reducing inflammation. The hair cells in your inner ear are in control of transmitting waves of sound to your brain. They never regenerate once they are ruined. So once they are gone, permanent hearing impairment is the consequence. Safeguarding your ears, then, should be top priority, and consulting a specialist if you’re currently having hearing trouble.

Research to Address The Issue

There is currently no cure for this condition. However, researchers are looking for ways to restore noise-related hearing loss. There are clinical trials, for instance, that are trying to restore these hairs with an experimental drug. If scientists were capable of getting this drug to work, these hairs would be able to restore and we might be able to address noise and age related hearing loss.

Safeguard Your Remaining Hearing

Noise related hearing loss can’t be cured but if you take certain steps to safeguard your ears, the hearing you have left can be protected into the future. Some things you can do include:

  • Undergo regular hearing tests
  • If there are places that regularly have loud noise – stay away from them
  • When you’re at home, limit your exposure to overly loud activities
  • Treat any hearing loss you have with hearing aids
  • If you work in an occupation that has consistently loud noise, use the recommended hearing protection

Lowering the volume on your devices, using ear protection, and staying away from overly loud noise is the best way to safeguard your hearing. Make an appointment for a hearing exam if you have been exposed to loud noise.

The site information is for educational and informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. To receive personalized advice or treatment, schedule an appointment.

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