According to the World Health Organization, about 50 million people in the United States have disabling hearing loss. This includes 1 in 5 teenagers and 60% of returning veterans from foreign wars. But most noise-induced hearing loss is 100% preventable.
Prolonged exposure to any sound at or above 85 decibels can cause gradual hearing loss. This is the level of heavy city traffic or a school cafeteria. The good news is that most noise-induced hearing loss is 100% preventable. Here are three safety precautions we recommend for you and your loved ones:
- Turn down the volume. When enjoying music, be sure to keep it at a safe listening level. Listening to an iPod or iPhone at maximum volume (105 decibels) for 15 minutes is all it takes to permanently damage your hearing. If someone else can hear the music playing in your headphones, it is too loud.
- Move away from noise. The farther you are from a loud sound, the safer it is. When at a concert or other venue with amplified sound, sit far away from the speakers. If you hear an unexpected loud sound, distance yourself from it as quickly as possible. Use your hands to block the noise as you relocate.
- Use hearing protection. At loud places like concerts or sporting events or even on planes, wear earplugs or earmuffs. The simplest earplugs can be purchased inexpensively at most drug stores. Be sure to carry extras to share with family and friends.