Another factor that result to earaches are noise-induced hearing loss or NIHL. It is common for us to hear sound everywhere. WE can hear even the tiniest sound. The sounds we hear are generally on safe levels so that it won’t affect our hearing. At the moment we’re exposed to harmful noise, it may risk damaging our inner ear’s sensitive structures. When damaged, it can lead to NIHL or noise-induced hearing loss.

The sensitive structures inside our ears are the hair cells. These are small sensory cells whose purpose is to convert sound energy to electrical signals traveling to the brain. When it gets damaged, it doesn’t have the ability to grow back.

As noted, sound is measured in terms of “decibels”. On this scale, an “increase of 10” would mean that the sound is 10x more powerful or intense. To our ears, the sounds we hear are twice as loud.

Earaches leading to noise-induced hearing loss can result from an intense sound impulse like an explosion. It can also be a result of continuous exposure to very loud sounds through an extended period of time. Other sources of noise include firecrackers, motorcycles, small firearms and the like. The louder the sound would mean the shorter the time before NIHL occurs. It is really best to stay away from noises that are too close, too loud or those that last too long.

Symptoms of NIHL gradually increase depending on the period of time you’re exposed to loud sounds. There are those who initially hear on a muffled or distorted level. He or she may have difficulty understanding speech. It can also be accompanied by a buzzing, roaring or ringing sound in the head or ears – a condition referred to as “tinnitus”. This can subside over time. For correct diagnosis, a hearing test should be done.

As most doctors would say, “prevention is always better than finding the cure” – at the same time, we should learn to care for our ears. This way, we can prevent earaches, ear infections and hearing loss. NIHL is 100% preventable with proper understanding and constant practice of good hearing health.