- Hearing Loss
Noise-Induced Hearing Loss: What is it and how do we protect ourselves?
Hearing plays a crucial role in our daily communication, speech and language, and learning ability. Even the slightest hearing loss can affect our responses in terms of comprehension, communication, and social development.
The Singapore Workplace Safety and Health Institute reports that over 1,000 workers were diagnosed with noise-induced hearing loss (NIHL) in the past five years, accounting for 35% of confirmed occupational disease cases. In fact, up to one in six young persons in Singapore is at risk of developing leisure NIHL from music delivered via earphones, according to a study on students from Temasek Polyclinic.
What is Noise-Induced Hearing Loss (NIHL)?
Noise-induced hearing loss is the loss of hearing caused by sudden or prolonged exposure to loud sounds. It can happen when too much noise damages the hair cells in the inner ear. It is one of the most common causes of hearing loss after age-related hearing loss — and the sobering fact is that it is entirely preventable with proper precautions.
What are the Causes of NIHL?
There are two predominant causes: sudden exposure to loud noises, and prolonged exposure to loud noises over an extended period. These damage the delicate hair cells in the inner ear and the hearing nerve due to high-intensity pressure waves.
Common noises that can affect your hearing include:
- Drilling and construction noises
- Loud music and gaming sounds through headphones
- Loud dance music at clubs
- Loud music at indoor gym group classes
- Loud music at live concerts
- Prolonged exposure to motorcycles and MRT trains
- Live firing during army training
- Lion dance
Symptoms of Noise-Induced Hearing Loss
You may experience a lingering ringing sound in your ear after being exposed to loud noises. This tinnitus usually goes away — but it is likely you have sustained some level of permanent hearing loss. Early signs of NIHL to look out for include:
- Persistent tinnitus and ringing sound
- Having more trouble understanding a conversation after loud sound exposure
- Needing to turn the TV volume higher
- Having to ask people to repeat what they say
- Reduced ability to hear high-pitched sounds like bicycle bells, doorbells
- Having trouble balancing yourself
Prevention of Noise-Induced Hearing Loss
While NIHL is permanent in most cases, it is preventable. Here are four tips:
1. Avoid Loud Noises
You can prevent NIHL by avoiding loud noises, such as turning down the volume of your music or using power tools with sound controls. It is also advisable to move further away from loud sound sources, such as speakers at a concert or a lion dance band.
2. Wear Earplugs or Earmuffs
When you must be around loud noises — at work, indoor gyms, or live concerts — wear proper earplugs or earmuffs to protect your hearing.
3. Take Breaks from Loud Noises
Limit your exposure to loud sounds by moving away from the source periodically. Your ears need time to recover.
4. Get Your Hearing Checked Regularly
If you are constantly exposed to loud sounds or think you may have hearing loss, get your hearing tested by a hearing care professional who can advise you on the best solution for your condition.
The Importance of Early Intervention
As NIHL is permanent but entirely preventable, it’s crucial to recognise the dangers and avoid situations that lead to damaged hearing. If you are experiencing hearing loss, strategies such as finding the best listening position, alerting others of your difficulty, and using closed captioning can help in the short term. For a long-term solution, hearing devices such as hearing aids and cochlear implants can help. Consult a hearing care professional at The Hearing Room to learn more.
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Located on the third floor of The Adelphi, two minutes from City Hall MRT, with basement parking and lift access. Designed to feel like a quiet consultation room, not a retail showroom. Extensive evidence has shown that unaided hearing impairment can accelerate the onset of cognitive decline and dementia in the elderly. A timely assessment can make a meaningful difference — both for your quality of life and for your long-term cognitive health.
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Located on the third floor of The Adelphi, two minutes from City Hall MRT, with basement parking and lift access. Designed to feel like a quiet consultation room, not a retail showroom. Extensive evidence has shown that unaided hearing impairment can accelerate the onset of cognitive decline and dementia in the elderly. A timely assessment can make a meaningful difference — both for your quality of life and for your long-term cognitive health.
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Located on the third floor of The Adelphi, two minutes from City Hall MRT, with basement parking and lift access. Designed to feel like a quiet consultation room, not a retail showroom. Extensive evidence has shown that unaided hearing impairment can accelerate the onset of cognitive decline and dementia in the elderly. A timely assessment can make a meaningful difference — both for your quality of life and for your long-term cognitive health.
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Located on the third floor of The Adelphi, two minutes from City Hall MRT, with basement parking and lift access. Designed to feel like a quiet consultation room, not a retail showroom. Extensive evidence has shown that unaided hearing impairment can accelerate the onset of cognitive decline and dementia in the elderly. A timely assessment can make a meaningful difference — both for your quality of life and for your long-term cognitive health.
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