Teenagers Are At Serious Risk For Hearing Loss Later In Life

Teenagers and young adults are a group that can be most at risk for noise induced hearing loss.  Noise induced hearing loss occurs when too much noise is filtered through the auditory system of the ear.  Any exposure to loud noise can cause both temporary and permanent hearing loss.  Teenagers and young adults, with frequent attendance to loud rock concerts and headphone listening habits that others can hear, are often unaware of the significant damage they are doing to their hearing.  

Within the inner ear, specifically inside the cochlea, there are minute hair cells that move when they encounter sound.  Prolonged exposure to loud noise can damage the ability of these sensitive hair cells to move, preventing the transmission of sound into the nerves connected to the brain.  Unfortunately, there are some loud noises that can permanently damage hearing after only one exposure.  These high pressure sounds can include close range gunfire, fireworks and explosions.  

Most teenagers and young adults will be at risk of acquiring gradual noise induced hearing loss.  The Occupational Safety and Health Administration has advised repeated long term exposure to noise levels of 85 decibels or higher can produce significant hearing damage.  Although most young adults are unwilling to wear ear plugs to the concert or nightclub, they should be educated in how much ear plugs can protect hearing.  Education in the risks of noise exposure can make the difference between hearing clearly later in life and needing hearing aids at a young age.  

There is no known method to reverse hearing damage once it has occurred, although protecting the auditory system from loud noise exposure at a young age can significantly lessen the effects of hearing loss later in life.  Teenagers and young adults should get their hearing checked at least as often as a vision exam, usually once per year.  A qualified hearing professional will not only be able to diagnose existing damage, but also educate in how to prevent additional damage.

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