What is Noise-induced Hearing Loss, And How do You Treat It? - 5 minutes read


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Noise-induced hearing loss is a condition that affects many people around the world. It is caused by exposure to loud noises over an extended period of time. This type of hearing loss can be temporary or permanent, depending on the severity of the noise exposure, and may or may not need you to use assistive devices or hearing aids in Sri Lanka.


What is noise-induced hearing loss (NIHL)?


Noise-induced hearing loss, or NIHL, is a problem that is caused by exposure to loud noise. This can be from a one-time event, such as an explosion, or from chronic exposure to loud noise over time, such as from working in a loud environment without proper protection.

NIHL can cause both temporary and permanent, depending on the severity of the noise exposure. Temporary loss from NIHL may go away after a few hours or days, but permanent hearing loss is irreversible and will require lifelong management.

Symptoms of NIHL can include ringing in the ears (tinnitus), difficulty understanding speech, and feeling like you're in a fog. If you experience any of these symptoms after exposure to loud noise, it is important to see a doctor or audiologist for an evaluation.

There is no cure for NIHL, but there are treatments that can help manage the symptoms and prevent further damage. These include hearing aids, assistive listening devices, and cochlear implants. Hearing aid prices in Sri Lanka vary depending on the type and features, so you can always get something that is within your budget. If you have this condition, it is important to avoid exposure to loud noise whenever possible and to use protection when you cannot avoid exposure. With proper management, people with this condition can still lead active and fulfilling lives.


How do you know if you have NIHL?


If you have any of the following symptoms, you may have NIHL:

  • Trouble hearing conversations, especially in places with a lot of background noise.
  • Asking people to repeat themselves often.
  • Turning up the volume on the TV or radio.
  • Muffled hearing.
  • Ringing in the ears (tinnitus).

If you have any of these symptoms, make an appointment to see a doctor or audiologist. They will ask about your medical history and exposure to loud noise and perform a physical examination of your ears.

They may also order tests, such as an audiogram, to assess your hearing. An audiogram is a test that measures how well you hear different tones at different volumes. Based on the results of the tests, the doctor or audiologist will develop a treatment plan.

Treatment for NIHL may include:

  • Avoiding further exposure to loud noise.
  • Wearing earplugs or earmuffs when exposed to loud noise.
  • Taking medications, such as steroids, to reduce inflammation and swelling.
  • Undergoing surgery to repair damaged parts of the ear.

With early diagnosis and treatment, you can protect your hearing and prevent NIHL from getting worse.


What are the causes of NIHL and how can you prevent it from happening to you or your loved ones?

This type of problem is very common among working adults. It can be caused by exposure to loud noise at work, such as from machinery, power tools, and firearms. It can also be caused by listening to loud music through headphones or at concerts.

You can prevent this condition from occurring by:

  • Wearing earplugs or earmuffs when exposed to loud noise.
  • Turning down the volume on your headphones.
  • Limiting your time spent in noisy environments.
  • Asking your doctor about medications that can protect your ears from damage caused by loud noise exposure.

What are the symptoms of NIHL and how can they be treated effectively so that hearing can be improved or restored completely in some cases?


In some cases of NIHL, the loss may be temporary, but in other cases, it can be permanent. The symptoms of NIHL are a ringing or buzzing sound in the ears (tinnitus) and difficulty hearing conversations or other sounds.

There is no cure for NIHL, but there are treatments that can help to improve the symptoms. These include:

  • Hearing aids.
  • Implanted hearing devices.
  • Counselling and support groups.
  • Assistive listening devices.
  • Tinnitus retraining therapy.


If you think you may be suffering from NIHL, it is important to see a doctor so that they can advise you on the best course of treatment. With early diagnosis and treatment, the effects of NIHL can be minimized.


How does one go about getting help for NIHL if they think they may be suffering from it, and what kind of support is available once treatment begins?

Once you have seen a doctor and started on a course of treatment for NIHL, there are a number of different ways that you can get support. There are many organizations and charities that offer help and advice for people with this condition, as well as their families and caregivers. These organisations can provide you with information about the latest treatments and advances in technology, as well as offer emotional support. In addition, they can also offer support to get hearing aids or accessories like hearing aid batteries online in Sri Lanka at reasonable prices.

They also run events and campaigns to raise awareness of hearing loss and its effects on the quality of life. If you think you might be suffering from NIHL, it is important to see your GP as soon as possible. They will be able to refer you to a specialist for further tests and treatment.