Hearing Association Wellington, Inc.

Hearing loss due to noise exposure is 100 percent preventable. 

Noise is measured in units called decibels.  A normal conversation is about 45 decibels, heavy traffic may be about 85 decibels, and a firecracker may be about 120 decibels.
Loud noise — can be any noise at or above 85 decibels.   Over a prolonged period, loud noise levels can cause damage to the cells in the inner ear that convert sound into signals to the brain.

The following are tips for avoiding noise-induced hearing loss:
- Minimize your exposure to loud noises that are persistent.
- Never listen to music through headphones or ear buds with the volume all the way up.
- Wear ear plugs or protective earmuffs during any activity that exposes you to noise at or above 85 decibels.
 
You should see your doctor if you have any symptoms of ear pain, fullness, or ringing, or if you experience any sudden change in your hearing. These symptoms could be early warnings of noise-induced hearing loss.  Know the causes of hearing loss, and practice hearing loss prevention to preserve the hearing you still have.