Ear Care

As you get older, a number of changes can occur in the ears that affect hearing. Changes occur from ear diseases or from injury to the ears. Protecting your ears and preventing or treating ear diseases can help preserve your hearing.

Sound is measured in intensity and frequency. Intensity or loudness is measured in decibels (dBA). Decibels measure how much sound pressure is exerted on a surface. Sounds can vary in intensity. Low intensity can be pleasant and harmless. Excessive exposure to noise at or above 85 – 90 dBA is dangerous.

Barely audible: 10 – 20 dBA
Quiet, pleasant sound: 40 – 60 dBA
Normal city noise: 70 – 80 dBA
Heavy machinery: 85 – 90 dBA; prolonged exposure may cause hearing loss
Jackhammer: 100 – 120 dBA; prolonged exposure will cause hearing loss
Loud music: 120 – 130 dBA; short exposure will cause damage
Explosion: 140+ dBA; a single explosion may cause permanent hearing loss