Noise: Noise induced hearing loss is usually permanent and progresses with each exposure.

Use proper ear protection when working around loud noises, or avoid them entirely. Everyday we are faced with noise in our daily environment, be it earphones, buses, televisions, trucks or alarms. If these sounds go on too long or over a long time period, the structures of the inner ear can get damaged and result in hearing loss. Prevention strategies can help you preserve your hearing, an important part of your daily life and one of the 5 senses.

The following video shares some common causes of hearing loss, from an American ear-nose-and-throat specialist:

Key tips for hearing loss prevention:

• Never put foreign objects into your ear. Anything small than your elbow should be avoided
• Treat middle ear infections as soon as possible. Fluid in the middle ear longer than 6 weeks should be drained by your doctor
• Have your doctor monitor any medications you are on, which may impact on your hearing
• Avoid excessively loud noises (Time, loudness and closeness)in the workplace, at home or in recreational venues
• Wear quality hearing protection if you are being exposed to motorcycles, chainsaws, lawn mowers etc.
• Ensure your family members understand the potential for hearing damage from the above and how to avoid situations where hearing loss may occur

Consider the following:

• Regular exposure to 110 db (decibels) or higher for more than 1 minute can result in permanent hearing loss
• Exposure to more than 15 minutes of higher than 100db can result in permanent hearing loss
• Prolonged exposure to sound higher than 90db can result in gradual hearing loss over time

Keep in mind:

• Rock concerts - Over 140 db
• Chainsaw - 110 db
• Petrol lawn mowers - 90db
• City traffic noise - 80 db
• Normal talking - 60 db

Look after your ears, they will look after you.

Think about what you are exposing your ears to next time you mow the lawn, listen to headphones or go to a rock concert. Think about the hearing protection most appropriate for you, and invest in some, be they ear plugs or other safety gear.

Give your ears a break, limit the noise and stress you put them under at every opportunity and in the long term your actions will be heard.