Noise can be defined as sound that is uncomfortable and unwanted.
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We live in a noisy world where we are constantly bombarded with sound. Many sounds are enjoyable, but unfortunately there are situations where sound be-comes noise.
Noise in our everyday life |
We are exposed to all kinds of sounds at work, and our children have noisy lives in day care centres, schools and clubs.
Leisure activities such as sports, the cinema and concerts, as well as the sounds of traffic, all contribute to the noise around us.
 Concerts |
| Discotheques |
| Portable CD/tape players |
| Traffic |
| Noisy workplaces |
| Childcare institutions |
When music is a source of noise |
Music is usually an enjoyable experience, but when it is too loud it becomes harm-ful noise. At a rock concert the noise level can be as high as 120 dB.
Portable CD/tape players, which are particularly popular among young people, are also a potentially harmful source of noise if used for lengthy periods of time at a high volume.
A very loud, brief sound such as that from an explosion or a gunshot may cause a permanent hearing loss. Long-term exposure to noise or loud sound can also cause permanent hearing damage.
Treatment of noise-induced hearing loss |
While a few types of hearing problems can be treated medically or surgically, hearing loss caused by exposure to harmful noise cannot be treated.
The reason for this is that sensory cells that are damaged or destroyed due to exposure to noise cannot heal or regenerate.
Hearing aids can, however, be a significant help in that situation because they make the most of the remaining hearing ability.
SEE ALSO:
SoundHearing lossAcoustic trauma
