April 27th, 2008
Noise Induced Hearing Loss or NIHL
NIHL? Yes, this is also known as noise induced hearing loss.
The loudness of sound is measured in units called decibels (dB). The hum of a refrigerator is 40 dB, normal conversation is 60 dB, and city traffic is 85 dB.
Sources of noise that can cause NIHL include small firearms, motorcycles, and not surprisingly firecrackers, all emitting sounds for 120-150 dB. Long or repeated exposure to sounds 85 dB or above can cause hearing loss. The louder the sound, the shorter the time before NIHL occurs.
Another factor to consider for NIHL is distance from the source of the sound and the length of time exposure has occured. Exposure to these types of sounds can cause damage to the hair cells as well as the auditory nerve. Tinnitus often accompanies this type of hearing loss, which is a ringing in the ears.