Noise is a pervasive environmental pollutant that can have adverse affects on hearing. The two main effects of noise on hearing are temporary and permanent hearing loss.
Temporary hearing loss can occur when a person is exposed to loud noises, such as loud music or machinery, for a short period of time. This type of hearing loss is usually temporary and can last for a few minutes or hours. Symptoms can include a feeling of fullness in the ears, muffled hearing, and difficulty understanding speech. Once the noise has stopped, hearing usually returns to normal.
Permanent hearing loss can occur when a person is regularly exposed to loud noises over an extended period of time. This type of hearing loss is permanent and can range from mild to severe. Symptoms of permanent hearing loss include difficulty hearing soft sounds, difficulty understanding speech, and ringing or buzzing in the ears. If noise-induced hearing loss is severe enough, it can lead to deafness.
In addition to hearing loss, noise can also cause other health problems. Prolonged exposure to loud noise can cause stress, fatigue, and sleep disturbances. It can also increase the risk of hypertension, heart disease, and stroke.
It is important to protect your ears from loud noises. Wearing ear plugs or ear muffs can help reduce the risk of noise-induced hearing loss. It is also important to take regular breaks from loud noises and to limit your exposure to loud noises when possible.