Prevent noise-induced hearing loss

Repeated exposure to loud noise and even a one-time exposure to loud noise can damage delicate, sound-sensitive hair cells in your inner ear. This kind of hearing loss is irreversible but preventable. To protect your hearing:

·         Lower the volume on your TV and stereo. Choose personal stereos with an automatic volume limiter.

·         Turn down the volume on headphones. By directing sound into your ear, headphones can produce levels loud enough to damage your hearing. Hold your headset at an arm’s length away. If you can hear the sound, the volume is probably too high.

·         Muffle the sound. Noise can be damaging if you have to raise your voice to be heard by someone an arm’s length away. Wear earplugs or earmuffs when you are around noisy tools, equipment or firearms. Use commercially made devices that meet federal standards. Make sure the protectors fit snugly. Don’t use cotton earplugs. They’re ineffective and become lodged in your ear canal.

·         Have your hearing tested. If you’re frequently around loud noise, have your hearing checked annually. A hearing test can detect mild hearing loss before the damage is obvious and disabling.

Source: mayoclinic.com