Julie Raney is a certified and licensed audiologist. She has a B.S. in Communication Sciences and Disorders and a Master’s Degree in Audiology from Idaho State University. She has worked as a clinical audiologist in Colorado since 2005. She specializes in hearing amplification for adults and delivers her services in both English and Sign Language.

Understanding Noise-Induced Hearing Loss (NIHL)

NIHL is a type of hearing loss caused by exposure to loud noises over a prolonged period. When you are exposed to loud noises, the tiny hair cells in your inner ear get damaged, and this can lead to permanent hearing loss. The severity of NIHL depends on the intensity and duration of the noise exposure.

Common sources of noise in our environment include construction sites, concerts, and machinery, to name a few. Noise levels are measured in decibels (dB), and sounds above 85 dB can cause hearing damage. For instance, a subway train can produce noise levels of up to 100 dB, while a car horn can reach up to 110 dB.

How Commuting Contributes to NIHL

Commuting is an unavoidable part of many people’s daily routine, whether it’s by car, train, or bus. However, prolonged exposure to noise during the daily commute can contribute to noise-induced hearing loss (NIHL).

NIHL occurs when the delicate hair cells in the inner ear are damaged or destroyed by exposure to loud noises. When these hair cells are damaged, they cannot be repaired or regenerated, leading to permanent hearing loss. Prolonged exposure to noise levels above 85 decibels (dB) can contribute to NIHL, and the noise levels experienced during the daily commute can often exceed this threshold.

Car commuters are particularly at risk for NIHL due to the noise levels inside the vehicle. Traffic noise can reach up to 85 dB inside the car, and turning up the radio to drown out the noise can further contribute to hearing damage. Additionally, some types of road noise, such as tire noise and wind noise, can be particularly damaging to hearing.

Train and bus commuters are also at risk for NIHL due to the high noise levels inside these vehicles. Train noise levels can reach up to 105 dB, while bus noise levels can reach up to 90 dB. This can be especially damaging for individuals who commute on a regular basis or for long periods of time.

Tips for public transport commuters

Wear hearing protection: Consider wearing earplugs or noise-canceling headphones during your public transport commute to reduce the amount of noise exposure.
Use noise canceling headphones on public transport:
Adjust the volume: Keep the volume of your car radio, music player, or other devices at a safe level to reduce the risk of hearing damage..

Tips for car commuters

Ensure the Exhaust System and Tires are in Good Condition

The majority of outside noise that enters your vehicle comes from the road, wind, and the vehicle itself. The exhaust system is often a culprit for excessive noise, but tire wheels can also produce their share of road noise. Loose belts and fittings can also contribute to noise problems, so inspect and adjust them as needed.

Install Noise-Blocking Weather Seals

If you’re hearing wind noise, add weather stripping to your doors and window areas. This can be purchased online or at many auto supply stores. If you hear a whistling noise coming from your outside mirrors, it’s likely due to the wind making its way through the lower drain holes. A small strip of tape can be a quick and easy fix.

Invest in Sound-Deadening Panels

Although most work vehicles have some built-in sound-deadening features, it’s often not enough to achieve a quiet ride. Aftermarket sound-deadening panels for the ceiling, walls, and doors can be purchased and installed.

By taking steps to protect your hearing during your daily commute, you can reduce your risk of developing NIHL and preserve your hearing for years to come.

Your daily commute to work could be contributing to hearing loss, and it’s essential to take steps to protect your hearing. Understanding the causes and effects of NIHL, reducing exposure to loud noises, and seeking early treatment can go a long way in preventing further hearing damage and improving your quality of life.

Our hearing professionals can provide you with a free hearing consultation and offer personalized treatment options based on your unique needs. Don’t let hearing loss affect your life – schedule a consultation with us today.