Noise-induced hearing loss

Noise-induced hearing loss happens when loud sound damages the delicate hair cells in your inner ear. It can come from one very loud event, or build up over years of exposure. Once done, the damage is usually permanent, which makes it almost entirely preventable the thing worth knowing.

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Where it comes from

The usual suspects, at work and at play.

Workplace noise

Construction, manufacturing and other industrial environments are common sources.

Loud music

Concerts, festivals and clubs. Even occasional exposure adds up over time.

Personal headphones

Regularly listening at high volume, especially over long periods.

Power tools and DIY

Drills, saws and other loud equipment used without hearing protection.

Your rights at work.

If noise is part of your job, your employer has legal responsibilities under the Control of Noise at Work Regulations 2005.

80 dBEmployer must assess the risk and provide information.
85 dBHearing protection becomes mandatory.
87 dBLegal maximum exposure limit.

Regularly exposed to loud noise at work without being offered hearing protection or hearing checks? It is worth raising with your employer.

Early warning signs.

Your ears usually warn you before the damage is permanent. Tick the ones you recognise.

Ringing or buzzing after loud noise, often the first sign
Sounds seem muffled for hours after a loud event
Gradually needing things repeated more often
Struggling to hear in noisy environments
Protect what you have

Wear proper hearing protection around loud noise, keep headphone volume sensible with regular breaks, step away from speakers when you can, and give your ears recovery time after loud exposure. A temporary muffled feeling is a warning. Repeated episodes can become permanent.

If the damage is already done.

Hearing aids are usually the most effective way to help you hear better day to day. We assess your hearing at your free test and talk you through the options, no pressure either way.

A style to suit you

From nearly invisible to fully rechargeable, there is a style for most lifestyles and levels of hearing loss.

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Hearing test in clinic

The full assessment at our Birmingham clinic, completely free, no obligation.

  • 60 minutes, results before you leave
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  • Bring someone, they are tested free too
£50
Home hearing test

The same full test, brought to your living room, tuned to real life: your TV, your phone, your front door.

  • Same audiologists, in the comfort of your home
  • Whoever is with you is tested free
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