Our sense of hearing is a remarkable gift that allows us to connect with the world around us. We founded RestorEar in 2017 because in today's noisy environment, it is becoming increasingly important to understand the risks associated with noise-induced hearing loss. Follow along as we review the causes, symptoms, and prevention of noise-induced hearing loss and talk about the role that RestorEar can play in empowering you to protect your hearing health. 

What is Noise-Induced Hearing Loss? Noise-induced hearing loss (NIHL) is a condition that occurs when we are exposed to excessive noise levels that damage the delicate structures in our ears. Prolonged or repeated exposure to loud sounds can lead to permanent hearing damage, affecting our ability to hear and understand speech, enjoy music, and engage fully in our daily lives.

The Causes of Noise-Induced Hearing Loss: Various factors contribute to the development of NIHL. Understanding these causes can help us make informed choices to prevent hearing loss. Here are some common causes of noise-induced hearing loss:

1. Occupational Noise: Jobs in industries such as construction, manufacturing, and entertainment expose workers to high levels of noise, increasing the risk of hearing damage if proper precautions are not taken.
2. Recreational Activities: Activities like attending concerts, using personal music devices at high volumes, and participating in motorsports or shooting sports without hearing protection can all contribute to NIHL.
3. Environmental Noise: Living or working in areas with high levels of environmental noise, such as heavy traffic, can gradually impact our hearing health.

1. Difficulty understanding speech, especially in noisy environments.
2. Ringing, buzzing, or roaring sounds in the ears, known as tinnitus.
3. Sensation of fullness or pressure in the ears.
4. Turning up the volume on electronic devices or television.

1. Use Hearing Protection: When exposed to loud sounds, such as at concerts or in noisy work environments, wear hearing protection devices like earmuffs or earplugs. These items reduce the intensity of sound reaching your ears.
2. Limit Exposure Time: Minimize the duration of exposure to loud noise by taking regular breaks in quieter environments.
3. Control Volume Levels: When using personal audio devices or attending events with amplified sound, keep the volume at a moderate level to prevent overexposure. An easy guideline to follow is the 60/60 rule: keep your volume under 60% maximum volume, and take a break from listening every 60 minutes.
4. Create a Quiet Environment: Take steps to reduce noise pollution in your living and working spaces, such as using soundproofing materials or installing double-glazed windows.
5. Prevent Damage After Noise Exposure with ReBound: We designed ReBound as the first product to support hearing health after noise exposure. ReBound uses cold therapy, which has been shown to reduce the negative impacts of noise exposure. Use ReBound for 20 minutes after noise exposure for further prevention.

Noise-induced hearing loss is a significant concern in our modern world, but by understanding its causes, recognizing the symptoms, and implementing preventive measures, we can protect our hearing health. Remember, preserving our hearing is a lifelong commitment that requires proactive steps to minimize exposure to excessive noise. By taking care of our ears today, we can continue to enjoy the sounds of life for years to come.