Noise-induced hearing loss is caused by prolonged exposure to loud noise. The culmination of constant exposure to everyday sounds like traffic, construction work, noisy office environments or loud music can negatively impact your hearing. While noise-induced hearing loss is generally temporary in nature, repeated over-exposure to loud noise makes it harder for the ears to recover between events. The noise damages inner ear hair cells, causing hearing loss to deteriorate over time and become permanent.

Noise-induced hearing loss is largely preventable, and you can significantly lower your risk of hearing loss by limiting exposure to loud noises, using earplugs in noisy environments, and using your headphones wisely. If you participate in activities such as hunting, wear your noise protection otherwise immediate and permanent damage to your hearing will occur.