is the second most common cause of sensory hearing loss
Sounds exceeding 85 dB are potentially injurious to the cochlea, especially with prolonged exposures
The loss typically begins in the high frequencies (especially 4000 Hz) and, with continuing exposure, progresses to involve the speech frequencies
Among the more common sources of injurious noise are industrial machinery, weapons, and excessively loud music
Personal music devices (eg, MP3 and CD players) used at excessive loudness levels may also be injurious
Monitoring noise levels in the workplace by regulatory agencies has led to preventive programs that have reduced the frequency of occupational losses
Individuals of all ages, especially those with existing hearing losses, should wear earplugs when exposed to moderately loud noises and specially designed earmuffs when exposed to explosive noises
