Loud noises

June 30, 2015 – Buffalo, NY – With the 4th of July holiday approaching, Buffalo Hearing & Speech Center (BHSC) is using the holiday weekend to remind Western New Yorkers to use “sound judgment” and take steps to protect their hearing and ear health this summer.

Noise from fireworks, power tools, lawn mowers, and concerts are common causes of hearing damage and loss; children are most at risk. Noise-induced hearing loss is preventable and the audiologists at BHSC offer some helpful tips to protect your ears this summer.

  • Any noise above 85 decibels (dB) is considered unsafe, and firecrackers produce sounds starting at 125dB
  • If you have to shout over the noise to be heard by someone within arm’s length, the noise is most likely within the dangerous range
  • Disposable earplugs are available at local pharmacies, hardware stores, even supermarkets.  They are practical because you can still hear the music, fireworks and conversation around you when you have them in your ears
  • Custom-fit ear molds are great when mowing the lawn, using power tools, watching fireworks displays, enjoying outdoor concerts, or other hobbies involving noise. You can ask you ear health professional about custom-fit ear molds
  • Warning signs of potentially ear damaging noise: if you have pain in your ears after leaving a noisy area or you hear ringing or buzzing (tinnitus) in your ears immediately after exposure to noise

BHSC also reminds people that regular hearing checks are critically important for hearing health and for detecting hearing loss early.  The message from audiologists at BHSC – get out and enjoy the summer in Western New York, but pack the earplugs!

About BHSC

Founded more than 60 years ago in Buffalo, Buffalo Hearing & Speech Center employs more than 400 professionals, including licensed Speech-Language Pathologists, Audiologists, Occupational and Physical Therapists, Social Workers, Special Education Teachers, Teacher Aides and Music Therapists.

 

More information on Buffalo Hearing & Speech Center is available at www.askbhsc.org