Hearing loss can be detrimental to our overall well-being and can be permanent. For this reason and many others, it is important to pay close attention to hobbies that can cause hearing damage and lead to potentially permanent hearing loss. Whenever you engage in hobbies and activities that produce loud noises, it is a good idea to pay some close attention to hearing protection.
Extended exposure to loud noises, regardless of their source, can damage cells and membranes in the cochlea. Loud noises after long-term exposure begin to overwork hair cells in the ear, which can cause these cells to become damaged and even die. The impact on the hearing worsens as exposure continues. According to the CDC, the harmful effects on the hearing may even continue after noise exposure has stopped.
5 Hobbies That Need Hearing Protection
1.) Shooting
Whether your hobby includes hunting or target shooting, firearms produce noises loud enough to cause serious damage to your hearing. Wearing earplugs or earmuffs can help reduce the impact of the noise. The shot from a gun produces a sound loud enough to cause a concussive force that disturbs the eardrum. As this takes place, the small bones in the inner ear and the cochlea become damaged. Even one single exposure to gunfire, hearing can be permanently damaged and tinnitus can ensue.
2.) Motorcycling
Motorcycling enthusiasts also have to pay special attention to the impact their hobby could have on their hearing. The sound of the wind and the loud motorcycle engine can produce noise levels that are harmful to hearing. This risk becomes even more probable for those who attend events such as motocross or supercross where there are many motorcycle engines revving up at once.
3.) Live Music
For those who love to attend music concerts or play in bands, hearing loss must be a consideration. Many famous musicians from Ozzy Osbourne to Phil Collins to Will.I.Am., suffer from permanent hearing loss from performing on stage with loud live music frequently.
4.) Power tools
If your job or hobby requires the use of power tools on a regular basis, you need to ensure that the consistent exposure to loud noise does not impact your hearing. Power tools like saws, drills, jackhammers and sanders can produce noise loud enough to cause hearing damage.
5.) Industrial work
If your career is construction, manufacturing or mining, you might be exposed to loud machinery and equipment that can lead to permanent hearing damage. The CDC approximates that 18% of all industrial workers have hearing difficulty and about 11% of all industrial workers have tinnitus.
At Hearing, Balance & Speech Center, We’re Here to Help! Contact Us Today!
Have questions about hearing protection? Talk to the exports at Hearing, Balance & Speech Center. If you’d like to book an appointment, please call us today on 203-774-5642 or request an appointment online.