Noise Induced Hearing Loss

The hearing loss that is caused due to excessive exposure to loud sound is the noise induced hearing loss. NIHL can be sudden or it can take long time to be noticeable. It can be temporary or permanent. The type and the amount of noise exposure may differentially damage the middle ear or the inner ear structure .Exposure to short duration high intensity noise may result in the damage to middle ear where as a continuous noise for a prolong duration may result in the damage to the structure .
What is “Noise” ?
Noise is any unwanted unpleasant or loud sound that disrupts hearing. Exposure to continuous noise of 85-90db ,over a life time in industrial settings, can lead to a progressive loss of hearing .
Effects of noise on daily living
Noise disturbs activities and communication ,causing annoyance may lead to stress responses, then symptoms possibly illness .Noise disturbs sleep and may increase blood pressure, heart rate, and finger pulse amplitude as well as body movement.
Noise and hearing loss
The hearing loss from excessive noise is a predominant occupational concern. Workplace accident and injuries also can increase due to excessive noise, as workers may not hear warning signal and reduced capability to localize the source of sound. Hearing loss can be preventable through taking appropriate safety measures, such as wearing earplugs or reducing the volume of noise.
Sources of noise
Community noise
All noise emitted from all sources except noise at the industrial workplace.
Main source of community noise includes :
Road Traffic noise
Noise from rail roads
Aircraft noise
Construction noise
Noise in building
Noise from consumer products
Noise in and around home
Machinery noise :
Plumbing
AC
Telephone
Water heater
Dish washer
Acoustic fan
Refrigerator
Gas fire
Minor appliances and small machinery
Fan heater
Vacuum heater
Knife sharpener
Hair dryer
Electric grinder
Radio, tape player
Whistling kettle
People and animals
Singing, shouting, and parting
Fights
Dog barks
Musical instruments
Fire works
Car
Children
Hand tools