Noise exposure is a leading cause of hearing loss. It usually develops gradually and may go unnoticed until it has progressed to a point where treatment options are limited. There are steps you can take now to prevent hearing loss down the road. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
What Are the Causes of Hearing Loss? <\/h2>\n\n\n\n
Some types of hearing loss are unavoidable. That which occurs with aging (presbycusis) can\u2019t be halted, but regular hearing tests can detect problems early, before they worsen. Noise-induced hearing loss, on the other hand, is usually preventable. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
Exposure to excessive noise damages the hair cells of the inner ear, causing permanent hearing loss. Usually this occurs over time, but the noise from a sudden lout gunshot may be enough to cause immediate, irreversible hearing damage. More often, repeated exposure to noise in occupational and recreational settings leads to gradual hearing loss. Sources include machinery, power tools, music concerts, sporting events, firearms, fireworks, motorcycles, boats, and snowmobiles. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
What Are the Symptoms of Hearing Loss? <\/h2>\n\n\n\n
Symptoms of hearing loss include the sensation of speech that appears muffled or distorted, the frequent need to ask others to repeat themselves, listening to the TV or radio at a higher volume level than others find comfortable, tinnitus (a ringing in the ears) and a feeling of fullness in the ears.<\/p>\n\n\n\n