Final answer:
Noise-induced hearing loss is a type of sensorineural hearing loss caused by exposure to loud noise. It affects the hair cells in the inner ear and can lead to hearing loss. Protecting your hearing and getting regular hearing tests are important for prevention and early detection.
Step-by-step explanation:
Noise-induced hearing loss is a type of sensorineural hearing loss that occurs due to exposure to loud noise. It can be caused by various factors such as listening to music at high volume, working in noisy environments like construction sites, or exposure to explosive sounds like gunfire. The loudness of the sound and the duration of exposure are key factors that determine the extent of damage.
Noise-induced hearing loss typically affects the hair cells in the inner ear that are responsible for converting sound vibrations into electrical signals. When these hair cells are damaged or destroyed, they cannot transmit signals to the brain effectively, resulting in hearing loss. The most common frequency range affected by noise-induced hearing loss is around 4000 Hz.
It is important to protect your hearing by wearing earplugs or earmuffs in noisy environments and by avoiding prolonged exposure to loud sounds. Regular hearing tests can help detect any potential hearing loss and allow for early intervention and treatment.