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Prevent noise-induced hearing loss

An extreme noise, like the firing of a shotgun experienced at close range, can permanently damage your hearing in an instant. This is known as noise-induced hearing loss (NIHL). Noise-induced hearing loss can result from one-time exposure to a loud sound like gunfire, and it can also be caused by repeated exposure to harmful sounds over an extended period of time.

 

NIHL is 100 percent preventable. All individuals should understand the hazards of noise and how to practice good hearing health in everyday life. To protect your hearing:

 

   * Know which noises can cause damage (those at or above 85 decibels).

   * Wear earplugs or other hearing protective devices when involved in a loud activity (special earplugs and earmuffs are available at hardware and sporting goods stores).

   * Be alert to hazardous noise in the environment.

   * Protect the ears of children who are too young to protect their own.

   * Make family, friends, and colleagues aware of the hazards of noise.

   * If you suspect hearing loss, have a medical examination by an otolaryngologist (a physician who specializes in diseases of the ears, nose, throat, head, and neck) and a hearing test by an audiologist (a health professional trained to measure and help individuals deal with hearing loss).

 

Source: US National Institute on Deafness and Other Communication Disorders

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