treated with hearing aids<\/a> (two are more effective than one) or cochlear implants. <\/p>\n\n\n\nNoise-Induced\nHearing Loss<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
Noise-induced hearing loss is the most common type experienced by younger individuals. It can be caused by exposure to a single loud sound, such as a gunshot or explosion, or by continuous exposure to loud noise over a period of time. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
When sounds exceed 85 decibels (dB) they are considered hazardous to your hearing health. Continuous exposure to volume levels that high causes permanent damage to the hair cells in your ears. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
Activities that put people at risk for noise-induced hearing loss include hunting, riding a motorcycle, listening to music at high volumes, playing in a band and attending rock concerts. An estimated 15 percent of Americans aged 20 to 69 have hearing loss that may have been caused by noise exposure. This type of hearing loss can be prevented by wearing earplugs and protective devices. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
Hearing Loss\nPrevention<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
Protecting your ears is the key to hearing loss prevention. If your job exposes you to hazardous noises, make sure proper safety equipment is provided, and that it meets state and federal regulations. Hearing protection \u2013 earplugs and earmuffs \u2013 is essential when working around loud equipment. It\u2019s always a good idea to bring along earplugs if you\u2019re participating in a noisy recreational activity (e.g., a football game or rock concert), as well. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
At home, limit your exposure to noisy activities, and keep the volume down \u2013 on the television, stereo and especially when it comes to personal listening devices like MP3 players. Prevent other types of hearing loss by refraining from inserting cotton swabs or other objects into your ears, blowing your nose gently through both nostrils and quitting smoking. Studies show those who use tobacco are more likely to suffer from hearing loss. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
Regardless of your age, have your hearing tested regularly. Early detection is key. While noise-related hearing loss can\u2019t be reversed, you can still take steps to avoid further damage to your hearing. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
Call Georgia Hearing Center at ENT of Athens at (706) 546-5689<\/a> for more information or to schedule an appointment.<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"Hearing loss is one of the biggest health concerns in the U.S. It is the third most commonly reported physical condition, following arthritis and heart disease. It affects roughly 20 percent of the American population and can strike people of all ages. The most common causes of hearing loss are noise exposure and aging. What…<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":1,"featured_media":0,"parent":256,"menu_order":0,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","template":"","meta":{"_seopress_robots_primary_cat":"","_seopress_titles_title":"","_seopress_titles_desc":"(706) 546-7908 | Hearing loss symptoms can be slow to progress. Learn about hearing loss types and why you should seek a diagnosis as soon as possible.","_seopress_robots_index":"","schema":"