The information you pass along to children when they are young is what shapes their actions as adults. Teaching them how to safely cross the street, tie their shoes and treat their classmates are lessons they will carry forever. Hearing experts suggest adding healthy hearing habits to this list.
What Is Noise-Induced Hearing Loss?
For children who are not born with hearing loss, the most common cause of hearing problems is exposure to loud noises. Known as noise-induced hearing loss, this condition occurs when children are either exposed to one really loud noise or are around loud noises for an extended period of time.
Sounds are measured in decibels (dB). Anything more than 85 dB can cause damage to the delicate hair cells within the ear responsible for passing sound information to the brain. Below is a list put together by the University of Rochester Medical Center on the decibel ratings of common sounds:
- Normal conversation: 60 dB.
- Kitchen appliances: 80-90 dB.
- Motorcycle: 90 dB.
- Music from smartphone played at the loudest level: 110 dB.
- Jet plane: 120-130 dB.
- Fireworks within three feet: 140-150 dB.
How Your Child Can Protect Their Hearing
While your child is at a Jefferson County School they will learn a number of ways to keep themselves safe, from the proper way to hold scissors to alerting a teacher at the first sign of trouble. Learning healthy hearing habits is also helpful, as it can help your child protect their ears from dangerously loud noises. The best ways to keep their ears safe are to:
- Lower the volume.
- Move away from the source of the noise.
- Wear hearing protections.
How to Spread Awareness
Spreading awareness about the dangers of noise-induced hearing loss and the simple measures children can take to protect themselves is important. Here are some of our top tips to help kids learn about protecting their hearing:
- Encourage children to measure the noise levels around their school with a decibel meter.
- Review the anatomy of the ear and the process of hearing.
- Show children how to properly wear hearing protection.
- Utilize social media to promote healthy hearing habits.
To learn more about noise-induced hearing loss or to schedule an appointment with a hearing professional, contact Heuser Hearing Institute today.