How loud is too loud?
Loud noise can be very damaging to hearing. Both the level of noise and the length of time you listen to the noise can put you at risk for noise-induced hearing loss. The louder the noise, the more damage it will do in a shorter time. The hearing system can be injured not only by a loud blast or explosion but also by prolonged exposure to high noise levels.
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How can I tell if I am listening to dangerous noise levels?
- You must raise your voice to be heard.
- You cannot hear someone 3 feet away from you.
- Speech around you sounds muffled or dull after you leave the noisy area.
- You have pain or ringing in your ears (this is called “tinnitus”) after exposure to noise.
Read on: http://www.asha.org/public/hearing/Noise-and-Hearing-Loss-Prevention/