Loud noise damages hair cells (stereocilia) in inner ear
But it is PREVENTABLE by maintaining noise exposures within the recommended limits
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Damaged stereocilia can no longer generate the electrical signals to send to brain
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Some damage can be temporary - takes 1-2 days to recover
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Repeated loud noises cause eventual death of hair cells (image above)
The loss is painless, permanent and progresses if protective steps are not taken
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The loss can be:
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Gradual: Repeated exposures to unsafe levels during daily activities. Not noticed by most.
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All at one-time: Single exposure from a very loud noise. Sudden deafness, ringing in the ears.
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You can notice the loss immediately or can take a long time to feel the effects of damage
There are currently no FDA-approved drug treatments to grow back damaged or lost hair cells - but there is ongoing research in this area
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Some numbers about Noise Induced Hearing Loss
26 Million in US (20-69 years old
Have permanent hearing damage from high exposure to noise
​50% ( 75 years and older)
Have hearing loss due to age + noise throughout life + other diseases
1 Billion worldwide (12-25 years old)
At risk. 50% due to personal audio devices, 40% due to entertainment places
1 in 4
With hearing loss think they have excellent to good hearing
Most people
Don't know early hearing loss symptoms
Image credits: CDC
Noise Induced Hearing Loss is preventable by you
Early signs of hearing loss can be self-detected and self-treated by you