Protect Your Hearing: How to Prevent Noise-Induced Hearing Loss

draashimachopra
Apr 30
2 min read

In our busy, often noisy world, protecting your hearing has never been more important. Whether you’re stuck in traffic, working with power tools, or simply enjoying your favorite playlist, your ears are constantly exposed to sound—and sometimes, too much of it.

As ENT specialists, we see many cases of hearing loss that could have been prevented. Let’s talk about how you can protect your ears and prevent noise-induced hearing loss (NIHL) before it becomes a problem.

What Is Noise-Induced Hearing Loss?

Noise-induced hearing loss happens when loud sounds damage the tiny hair cells in your inner ear. These cells don’t grow back—so once they’re gone, they’re gone for good.

The risk isn’t just from sudden loud noises. Continuous exposure to moderately loud sounds (like lawn mowers or traffic) can cause damage over time.

Sounds above 85 decibels (dB)—about as loud as city traffic—can be harmful with long-term exposure.

Common Sources of Excess Noise

You might be surprised where harmful noise levels come from:

Headphones at high volume
Live music concerts or nightclubs
Construction or factory work
Motorcycles or loud vehicles
Power tools and lawn equipment

How You Can Prevent Hearing Loss

1. Wear Ear ProtectionIf you're in a noisy environment—at work, a concert, or using loud equipment—wear earplugs or noise-cancelling earmuffs. Custom earplugs are a great option for musicians and frequent concertgoers.

2. Turn It DownKeep your music, videos, or calls at no more than 60% volume—especially with earbuds. If someone else can hear your music, it’s too loud!

3. Take Listening BreaksGive your ears time to recover. If you’re in a noisy place, step away for a few minutes in a quiet area when you can.

4. Limit Time in Noisy SettingsTry to reduce how long you're exposed to loud environments. Even short periods of extreme noise can cause permanent damage.

5. Make Your Space QuieterUse soft furnishings at home or work to absorb sound. Keep machines and equipment well-maintained to reduce excess noise.

6. Get Your Hearing CheckedRegular hearing tests help catch early signs of damage. If you notice ringing in your ears or trouble hearing conversations, don’t wait—schedule an appointment.