Noise induced hearing loss, caused by loud noises, impacts approximately 15 percent of the United States population, according to the National Institute of Health. But recent research offers hope. Scientists at the University of Michigan Kresge Hearing Research Institute found a combination of vitamins A, C and E, plus magnesium, taken before listening to loud noises, may be able to lessen the risk of noise induced hearing loss.
Understanding Noise Levels
A vacuum cleaner emits approximately 70-85 decibels of noise, a lawn mower emits between 80 and 85 decibels. The Children's Hospital of Boston indicates that listening to noise of 85 decibels for 8 hours per day would be considered to be safe. Anything above that has the potential of causing noise induced hearing loss. [iPods and Hearing Loss, 2007, MMPC Hearing Center and Audiology] Most iPods have the ability to emit noise over 85 decibels. If someone is listening to an iPod over the vacuum, lawn mower or other noises, volume levels may be set to 100-105 decibels.
How Hearing Loss Occurs
Loud noises cause the formation of molecules inside the ear and these molecules cause damage to hair cells in the inner ear. Normally, hearing will improve after rest from listening to loud noises. However, prolonged exposure can cause permanent damage to the cells, and therefore, permanent hearing loss.
How Vitamins and Minerals May Help
Researchers have found that vitamins, when combined with magnesium can prevent the cellular damage from occurring in the inner ear, thereby preventing hearing loss from occurring. Initial laboratory tests showed promise and researchers are planning further tests on human participants.
Groups At Risk of Noise Induced Hearing Loss
Soldiers
The Department of Defense spent approximately 1.5 billion dollars treating hearing impairments caused by loud noises soldiers are exposed to in war zones, according to Josef M. Miller, PhD, the director of the Center for Hearing Disorders at the U-M Department of Otolaryngology's Kresge Hearing Research Institute. ["Can Vitamins and Minerals Prevent Hearing Loss?", 2008, Nov 10, Science Dailey] Further, Dr. Miller indicates that up to one third of soldiers cannot be redeployed because of hearing loss.
Musicians
Hearing specialists have determined that both classical and rock music can cause hearing loss. In a study conducted in 1981, forty two percent of the musicians examined showed hearing loss greater than would have been expected based on their age. Musicians depend on their hearing and poor hearing can impact the level of their performance and, in extreme cases could end their careers.
People Listening to MP3 Players
Today, the use of MP3 players, such as iPods has become widespread. . Often, the mp3 player is turned loud in order to be heard above sounds in the room or over street traffic. Listening to an mp3 player at decibels above 85 for more than 15 minutes can increase the risk of long-term hearing loss.
What You Can Do
Noise induced hearing loss can be prevented or reduced in many cases. Using ear plugs can help to block the loud noises. Noise-isolating headphones can help isolate your ears from noise. For those people using mp3 players, a good rule of thumb is if you must turn down the volume to hear people, it is too loud. Use mp3 players at a moderate sound level. Understanding noise induced hearing loss and changes behaviors can help to prevent permanent hearing loss.
See also:
Digital Hearing Aids Come of Age
Sources:
Can Vitamins and Minerals Prevent Hearing Loss?, 2008, Nov 10, Author Unknown, ScienceDaily
IPods and Hearing Loss, 2007, Author Unknown, MMPC Hearing Center and Audiology
Hearing Loss in Musicians, 1988, Miriam C. Daum P.T., M.P.H., Center for Safety in the Arts
Eileen Bailey - Eileen Bailey is a freelance writer. She began her writing career almost 20 years ago writing marketing material and sales presentations. ...
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