How does loud noises affect your hearing?

What is noise-induced hearing loss?

Your child’s inner ears may be damaged if he or she is around extremely loud noises or around loud noises for long periods of time. This is called noise-induced hearing loss.

One way of describing noise is by decibels.

Normal conversation is usually about 60 decibels. Regularly being around noise that is more than 85 decibels can cause hearing loss. Which noises can affect hearing? Level of safety Decibels (Approximate) Type of noise Permanent hearing loss may happen 140-150Fireworks within 3 feet, guns, jet engine 120-130Jet plane, siren, jackhammer 110Personal music player set at loudest level, chain saw, radio-controlled airplane Gradual hearing loss may happen over time 90Subway, motorcycle Safe 80-90Kitchen appliances 60Normal conversation 30Whispering What causes noise-induced hearing loss? Loud noises can damage the hair cells in the inner ear and the hearing nerve. This is called sensorineural hearing loss or nerve deafness. Sensorineural hearing loss also has many other causes. Hearing loss from loud noises may happen right away or slowly over a period of years. It may be permanent or temporary.