Protect Your Hearing from Noisy Fireworks this Fourth of July
Fireworks and Other Loud Noises Can Cause Permanent Damage
As Americans enjoy fireworks displays as part of their Fourth of July festivities, the American Speech-Language-Hearing Association (ASHA) reminds everyone that they can take a few simple steps to prevent potentially lifelong consequences of unsafe hearing behaviors.
According to the National Institute on Deafness and Other Communication Disorders, approximately 26 million Americans between the ages of 20 and 69 have high-frequency hearing loss from overexposure to loud noises at work or during leisure activities. Hearing loss can occur gradually over time, but can also result from a single exposure to an intense sound. Children and others may be particularly vulnerable to this risk. While hearing loss can often be prevented, there is no way to reverse hearing loss.
To prevent noise-induced hearing loss this holiday, keep in mind a few simple tips:
