You probably know that loud noises can damage your hearing and cause hearing loss. This is known as noise-induced hearing loss (NIHL), and it’s estimated that as many as 40 million American adults have some degree of NIHL. But NIHL isn’t just caused by a single gunshot or one loud rock concert; prolonged exposure to smaller—but still loud—sounds is also capable of damaging hearing. 
How Loud Noise Damages Hearing
In order for us to hear, sound waves travel through the ear canal and into an organ in the inner ear called the cochlea, where they are converted into electrical impulses that are then transmitted to the brain for processing. This conversion from sound waves to electrical impulses is performed by tiny sensory cells that line the cochlea. These cells are hair-like in structure and delicate.
Loud noises create powerful sound waves that enter the cochlea with force. Like a wind storm, these sound waves flatten and damage the hair cells. When a hair cell is damaged, it can no longer transmit sound information to the brain, meaning you lose a small amount of your ability to detect sound.
Dangerous Noise Levels
So, how loud is too loud? The threshold is generally considered to be 85 decibels; anything 85 dB and higher can pose a risk to your hearing.
Everyday Noises That Could Be Harmful to Hearing
Here are some items around your house and neighborhood that can reach 85+ dB and cause hearing damage, perhaps even without your noticing.
- Vacuum cleaner (70–85 dB)
- Crowded restaurant (70–85 dB)
- Heavy traffic (70–90 dB)
- Washing machine or dryer (70–90 dB)
- Garbage disposal (80–95 dB)
- Hair dryer (80–95 dB)
- Blender or food processor (85–90 dB)
- Lawn mower (90 dB)
- Slamming a door (100 dB)
- Leaf blower or snow blower (100–110 dB)
- Police, ambulance and fire truck sirens (120 dB)
- Jackhammers and other power tools (130 dB)
Some of these objects, such as the blender or hair dryer, probably won’t be in use and close enough to your ears for long enough to cause lasting damage. The real danger lies in prolonged exposure, so be cautious of extended periods of use.
Using Hearing Protection
While NIHL isn’t reversible, it is preventable. By practicing good hearing protection, you can prevent the majority of damage. Call Gulf Coast Audiology today to learn more about hearing protection best practices and other ways you can protect your hearing. And if you believe you’re showing symptoms of NIHL, consider setting up a hearing test.