Fireworks and Hearing Loss

Its approaching that time of year, firework stands are officially opening across the country! Families are circling the fireworks tents and the store front locations that open at this time each year in search of the best deals on fireworks.

We all know that fireworks can be dangerous and many safety precautions are necessary when it comes to fireworks, but there is one health hazard that is often never thought about: noise induced hearing loss.

Colonial Center for Hearing which provides hearing aids for Newport News Virginia states of the roughly 40 million Americans suffering from hearing loss, 10 million can be attributed to noise-induced hearing loss (NIHL). NIHL can be caused by a one-time exposure to loud sound as well as by repeated exposure to sounds at various loudness levels over an extended period of time. The loud sounds created by many popular fireworks can be a source of NIHL.

Sound pressure is measured in decibels (dB). If a sound reaches 85 dB or stronger, it can cause permanent damage to your hearing. Fireworks are estimated to be 125 to 155 decibels. This can result in permanent damage to your hearing. Once the damage is done, it is irreversible. If you are setting off the fireworks, then hearing protection is the key, whether you are wearing foam earplugs or earmuffs. If you are watching the fireworks, maintain a safe distance and monitor the amount of time you are exposed to the noise. Should you feel you may have the first signs of hearing loss, Colonial Center for Hearing offers examinations and Newport News hearing aids in Virginia.