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Noise-Induced Hearing Loss (NIHL)
Noise-Induced Hearing Loss (NIHL)
Overview
Noise Induced Hearing Loss (NIHL): Symptoms & Treatment
Agriculture.
Carpentry.
Mining.
Oil or gas extraction.
Construction.
Military.
Noise-induced hearing loss symptoms may last minutes, hours or days after noise
exposure ends. But even if your hearing returns to normal, cells in the inner ear may
still be destroyed. If enough healthy cells are left, your hearing will eventually come
back. But as more cells are destroyed over time, hearing loss can become permanent.
Noise-induced hearing loss may be caused by a single event, such as a loud explosion
or gunshot. This type of NIHL can be immediate and permanent. In other instances,
NIHL may be caused by exposure to loud noises over time. When this happens, you
may go for weeks, months or even years before noticing symptoms, as they often
occur gradually over time.
Prevention
Can I prevent noise-induced hearing loss?
Yes. Noise-induced hearing loss can be prevented by following these guidelines:
A research study in Austria found that it’s possible to determine your susceptibility to
NIHL by measuring temporary hearing loss — also known as temporary threshold
shift (TTS). This test can tell you how quickly the cells in your inner ear recover after
noise exposure, which can be beneficial for preventing NIHL.
Outlook / Prognosis
What can I expect if I have noise-induced hearing loss?
If you’ve been diagnosed with noise-induced hearing loss, start protecting your ears
now. While you can’t reverse damage that has already been done, you can reduce your
risk for future damage.
Living With
When should I see my healthcare provider?
If you notice any changes in your hearing, you should schedule a consultation with
your healthcare provider. This is especially true if you experience sudden or rapidly
progressing hearing loss.
Anxiety.
Stress.
High blood pressure (hypertension).
Insomnia.
Increased heart rate.
Isolation.
Depression.
Noise-induced hearing loss can have a significant negative impact on your quality of
life. You may have difficulty following conversation or communicating with friends
and family. This can ultimately lead to an avoidance of social situations. Fortunately,
noise-induced hearing loss can often be successfully managed with hearing aids or
implants.