Noise and Hearing: the harmful effect of noise

You’ve worked in a noisy environment and you have noise-induced hearing loss? You could get your hearing aids covered by the Health and Safety organism of the province you worked in. Our team will help you through the process.

Exposure to high levels of noise, even for a short period of time, can cause hearing loss. It’s the case for many policemen, military personnel, construction workers, forest and mill workers, miners, fishermen, mechanics…

Noise-induced hearing loss is permanent. It mostly affects high-frequency sounds (sharp sounds), that help understand speech clearly.

What sounds can injure the ear?

Prolonged exposure to noise levels of 80 decibels (dB) can lead to hearing loss.

It is recommended to people exposed to noise, either at work or at home, to have regular preventive hearing check-ups.

The first signs of noise-induced hearing loss are

Trouble understanding speech, especially in a group or in background noise.
Hearing a whistling or buzzing sound in quiet situations.
Having to concentrate on the conversation to understand and asking people to repeat.
Mixing up words that sound alike (SIX or FIX).

How to prevent hearing damage?

Constant exposure to loud noises can damage hair cells, resulting in sensorineural hearing loss. Once the hair cells are damaged, they cannot be repaired. However, noise-induced hearing loss is preventable. The most important step you can take is to avoid constant exposure to noises 80 dB and louder. If you can’t, wear airtight hearing protection during exposure and take regular breaks. At Entendre + Hearing, we offer custom earplugs that can help protect you.

How to treat hearing loss caused by noise

Noise-induced hearing loss cannot be repaired but it can be prevented. If you’ve already suffered a hearing loss, talk to us about using hearing instruments. Happily, more than 90% of people with hearing loss can be helped with the use of hearing instruments.

How to recognize the warning signs

Warning signs that you’re being exposed, even temporarily, to excessive noise levels include:

The need to ask others to speak loudly so that you can hear them
Ringing or buzzing in your ears (tinnitus)
Reduced hearing and understanding of speech

If you’re experiencing any of these symptoms, speak to your hearing healthcare professional now and take the right protective measures.