Noise-induced hearing loss (NIHL) is the name we give to hearing loss that comes specifically from over-exposure to loud sound. Hearing care providers can usually identify NIHL from the results of a hearing test. Unlike other causes of hearing loss, NIHL tends to show the biggest losses at frequencies around 3 kHz and 6 kHz. This is because the shape of our ear canals accentuates these frequencies, which are important ones for understanding speech. When sound is too loud, however, it’s even more too loud at these frequencies, causing more hearing loss to occur than at other frequencies. This is especially problematic because these are frequencies where a lot of important speech sounds occur, so NIHL can easily cause communication problems.

Sound levels at 70 dBA (decibels A-weighted) or lower are considered safe. 70 dBA is about the volume of a group conversation. When sound reaches 85 dBA (gas-powered lawn mower), hearing loss can occur after about 8 hours of continuous exposure. For every additional 3 dBA, the safe period of exposure is cut in half. That means by the time sound reaches 100 dBA (motorcycle engine) it only takes about 15 minutes for permanent hearing loss to occur. Sounds around 120 dBA and higher can cause hearing loss instantly.

NIHL is one type of hearing loss that is completely preventable, but completely permanent. Whenever we are around loud sound, it’s crucial to protect our hearing.

Custom-molded earplugs are the most comfortable, safest, and best-sounding way to protect your hearing. The attenuators used in custom earplugs reduce all frequencies evenly, unlike single-use earplugs. Even OTC earplugs that claim to provide an even frequency response pale in comparison to the attenuators in these custom passive designs.

When you come to our office—or when we arrive at your home if you choose our mobile service—we will administer a hearing test to establish the state of your hearing ability. This helps us determine in the future whether the protection you have is doing its job well enough.

Then, we’ll take an impression of the inside of your ear canals. This only takes a few minutes, and while it may be slightly uncomfortable it is completely painless. These impressions are sent to a factory where specialized equipment is used to make a set of silicone earplugs that fit your ear canals perfectly.