Life Credit Union

Say ? What? DOES YOUR TEEN listen to music on an mp3 player, smartphone or other digital device? If so, he or she probably uses either earbuds that sit just inside the ear canal or large, over-the-ear headphones. Some modern headphones are capable of maximum sound output levels up to 105 dB, the equivalent of an ambulance siren or a typical rock concert. The use of these devices can cause noise-induced hearing loss. Hearing loss is the result of damage to the structures and nerve fibers of the inner ear. This type of damage can be caused by one-time exposure to a loud blast of sound or prolonged exposure to loud sounds over time. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention estimates that 12.5 percent of children and adolescents ages 6 to 19 and 17 percent of adults ages 20 to 69 suffer from noise-induced hearing loss. Consider this—when noise is increased by 10 dB, the sound is 10 times more powerful. Typical sounds that adolescents are exposed to daily can range from a library at 40 dB to a school cafeteria at 85 dB or a woodshop at 100 dB. A person can be exposed to sounds reaching 85 dB for eight hours before hearing damage becomes possible, but at 100 dB, 15 minutes is the exposure limit without risking hearing loss. This is why stereo systems and concerts can be particularly detrimental to hearing. Stereo systems are capable of reproducing sounds at such high levels that hearing damage can develop within minutes. At 136 dB, those attending the infamous KISS concert were at danger for hearing damage in less than nine seconds. The good news? Noise-induced hearing loss is preventable. Make your children aware that being involved in some activities without proper hearing protection could cause immediate, permanent damage to their hearing. While they may enjoy seeing a favorite band in concert, it is important to wear hearing protection. DURING A 2009 TOUR STOP IN ONTARIO, THE ROCK BAND KISS PLAYED AT AN EAR-SPLITTING 136 DECIBELS (dB)—NEARLY AS LOUD AS A JET DURING TAKEOFF. Hearing Loss at 17: While some insurance companies may cover the cost of a physician's visit to determine a need for hearing aids, typically, hearing aids and the required maintenance of such devices, including batteries, are not covered and can cost thousands of dollars. The ability to hear higher frequencies—such as alarm clocks, crickets chirping or birds singing—is lost first. Ringing ears after exposure to loud sounds is one warning sign of hearing loss. Prolonged, repeated exposure to everyday sounds at 85 to 90 dB (lawnmowers, school cafeterias, car stereos) can also cause hearing damage. Turn the volume down when you have the option, and if you don't have the option, wear hearing protection. Now Hear This

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