What is the main cause of noise-induced hearing loss (NIHL)?

The primary cause of noise-induced hearing loss (NIHL) is prolonged exposure to high levels of noise. This type of hearing loss occurs when the delicate hair cells in the cochlea of the inner ear are damaged due to excessive sound levels. Continuous exposure to loud noise can lead to permanent damage, as these hair cells do not regenerate.

Occupational environments often feature persistent high decibel levels from machinery or equipment, which significantly increases the risk of NIHL among workers who are not adequately protected from such noise. The longer the duration and the higher the intensity of the sound, the greater the likelihood of developing hearing loss.

Conversely, short exposure to high-pitched sounds may not cause immediate or severe effects, and listening to music at low volumes is typically not a contributing factor to hearing loss. Moreover, using hearing protection devices is a preventive measure intended to mitigate the risk of NIHL rather than a cause of it.