What characterizes noise-induced hearing loss?

Noise-induced hearing loss is primarily characterized by permanent hearing impairment that results from prolonged exposure to high levels of noise. This type of hearing loss occurs because the sensitive structures in the inner ear, particularly the hair cells in the cochlea, can be damaged by continuous loud sounds over time. Once these hair cells are damaged, they do not regenerate, leading to irreversible hearing loss.

The condition is often cumulative, meaning that the risk increases with both the intensity of the noise and the duration of exposure. This distinguishes it from temporary threshold shifts, where hearing may return to normal after a short period of quiet following brief exposure to loud noise, which can be related to temporary loss of hearing.

Prolonged exposure to loud environments, such as construction sites or musical concerts, is the common scenario that leads to this permanent type of hearing loss. Therefore, consistent high-decibel exposure is a critical factor in defining noise-induced hearing loss.