What kind of noise causes hearing loss?
Are there other causes of hearing loss?
What is tinnitus?
What is occupational noise?
What is noise-induced hearing loss?
How can I protect my hearing and prevent noise-induced hearing loss?
It’s important to wear ear plugs, noise muffs, or other hearing protection devices when engaging in noisy activities in order to prevent noise-induced hearing loss.
Will wearing hearing protection devices decrease my situational awareness?
Hearing protection devices are available that can simultaneously protect hearing and enhance situational awareness.
Do hearing protection devices really protect my hearing?
When fitted and worn properly, and used for their intended purposes, hearing protection devices can be extremely effective at preserving your hearing.
What is an audiologist?
An audiologist is a healthcare provider with a Master's or Doctoral Degree in Audiology who has completed a period of post-graduate supervised practice and has received national certification and state licensure in Audiology.
What does an audiologist do?
An audiologist performs a number of specialized hearing and balance tests. Audiologists are trained to fit hearing aids. They can help with modifications and adjustments to your hearing aids as you learn to wear them.
What is an otolaryngologist?
An otolaryngologist is a physician trained in the medical and surgical management and treatment of diseases and disorders of the ear, nose, and throat, and related structures of the head and neck.
How can I find out if I have hearing loss?
To learn if you have hearing loss, visit an otolaryngologist or audiologist. They can perform tests to evaluate your hearing.
Is it important to have my hearing tested?
It’s important for everyone, especially those in the military, to have their hearing tested on a regular basis. Military personnel who are constantly exposed to loud noise need to have their hearing tested annually.
Can using my personal listening device damage my hearing?
Personal listening devices can deliver sound directly to the ear at potentially dangerous levels. Noise levels can exceed 85 decibels, which is the maximum safe level for prolonged listening. Prolonged exposure at high volume increases the risk of noise-induced hearing loss.
Are there treatments for hearing loss?
Yes. Treatment for reversible hearing loss depends on the underlying cause as well as the type and degree of hearing loss. The treatments that are available for permanent hearing loss focus on improving hearing, preventing further hearing loss, and developing alternative communication skills.
What is a hearing aid?
A hearing aid is an electronic device that picks up and amplifies sound. Sounds that the wearer normally would not hear are increased in volume and therefore better delivered to the ear.
What is a cochlear implant?
A cochlear implant is an electronic device that provides partial hearing to patients with severe-to-profound bilateral hearing loss. The implant is surgically implanted in the inner ear and activated by a device worn outside the ear.
What is the Comprehensive Hearing Health Program?
The Hearing Center of Excellence is launching a Comprehensive Hearing Health Program for all the services, designed to eliminate noise-induced hearing loss through effective education and training, monitoring, and hearing protection fitting.
How do I apply for VA disability benefits, if I have hearing loss or tinnitus due to my military service?
There are a number of ways to apply for VA disability benefits. You can start by reviewing the information in our Help and Support section of this Web site or by calling 1-800-827-1000.
What are hearing protection devices?
Hearing protection devices, or HPDs, play key roles in protecting against potentially damaging noise levels, which can result in hearing loss or tinnitus. Three common HPDs are:
What are some potentially noisy recreational activities and their noise levels?
Some common recreational activities and their POTENTIAL noise levels include:
What tips should I follow when using my personal listening device?
Practice safe-listening tips that include:
Some of the noisiest occupations in the United States include agriculture, mining, plumbing, and the military.