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Loud noise exposure is a common cause of hearing loss. There are a range of activities we regularly engage in that produce excessive noise. An example of this is hunting, a sport that involves using loud rifles. If you are a hunter, you are at an increased risk of developing hearing loss. It is important to practice safety measures that protect your hearing health and wellness.
Impact of Hunting on Hearing Health
It may be surprising to learn that many people do not wear hearing protection while hunting. This exposes people to dangerous levels of noise which can cause noise induced hearing loss. Sound is measured in units referred to as decibels (dB), and noise above 85dB is considered potentially hazardous for hearing health. This is equivalent to busy city traffic, a blow dryer, and a noisy restaurant during peak hours. Experts suggest that the maximum threshold for safe listening is 85dB for 8 hours a day, but any sound that exceeds this requires a significant adjustment in exposure time.
To hunt, people typically use a .22 caliber rifle which produces noise around 140dB. Also, an average deer rifle reaches up to 175dB. These volumes are dangerous for hearing and can immediately cause damage to hearing health. One shot at these volumes can cause permanent hearing loss. This highlights the importance of hearing protection and prioritizing hearing health.
Noise Induced Hearing Loss
One time or regular exposure to loud noise can cause noise induced hearing loss. This occurs when the sensory cells in the inner ear are damaged. There are thousands of sensory cells in each ear which may play a critical role in how sound is absorbed and processed. These cells receive incoming soundwaves and convert them into electrical signals which get sent to the brain. The brain is then able to further process these signals which also involves assigning meaning to them, allowing us to understand what we hear.
Loud noise can cause these cells to become desensitized and weak, reducing their capacity to perform their essential function. This results in the brain receiving less auditory information and having to work harder to search for sound signals, producing hearing loss. Unlike other types of cells we have, sensory cells in the inner ear do not regenerate. This means that any damage they experience is permanent – there are also no medical interventions to repair and replenish these cells. This underscores the importance of protecting hearing health.
Tips to Protect Hearing
There are several ways you can protect your hearing health which is especially important if you are an avid hunter. A few tips include:
- Wear hearing protection: this includes headphones, earplugs, and earmuffs which offer the ears a physical barrier; reducing the amount of loud noise you absorb. There are custom hearing protection options you can invest in. Custom options are tailor made to the shape of your ear which offers a seamless fit and maximum protection. There are earplugs that can be custom made specifically for engaging in loud activities like hunting.
- Take breaks: it is important to also take listening breaks. If you are out hunting, be sure to take breaks throughout so that you are not constantly exposed to excessive sounds back to back.
- Reduce exposure: in addition to taking breaks, there are several ways you can reduce your exposure to loud noise. This includes maintaining low volume settings on electronic devices, driving with the windows rolled up, avoiding settings that are noisy etc.
- Test hearing regularly: another useful strategy to protect your hearing health is having your hearing evaluated regularly. Hearing tests involve a painless process that measures your hearing capacity in both ears. This is a great way to track your hearing health and intervene early if you experience changes over time.
Noise induced hearing loss is completely preventable and practicing these strategies can significantly reduce your risk of developing hearing loss. Wearing hearing protection enables you to fully enjoy hunting without compromising your hearing health.
Prioritize Hearing Health Today
Contact us today to schedule an appointment for a hearing consultation. This will allow us to identify a baseline of your hearing health. We can also discuss custom hearing protection options that are optimal for you.
