The Center for Hearing and Communication (CHC) in NYC and Ft. Lauderdale is pleased to be your partner in healthy hearing—offering state-of-the-art hearing testing and an array of tech solutions to address your all your hearing needs, including custom hearing protection.
Noise-induced hearing loss is one of the most common types of hearing loss, and its prevalence among teens and young adults is growing.
While noise-induced hearing loss is permanent, it's entirely preventable when you take appropriate steps to avoid noisy environments and use hearing protection (e.g., earplugs) when proximity to noise is unavoidable.
Protecting your hearing from noise—and experiencing a lifetime of healthy hearing—is easier than you think.
What is Noise-Induced Hearing Loss?
Noise-induced hearing loss (NIHL) occurs when loud sounds damage the inner ear. This can happen from a single loud event or repeated exposure over time.
Common sources of harmful
noise:
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Concerts, clubs, and sporting events
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Fireworks and sirens
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Power tools and construction noise
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Headphones at high volume
Signs of NIHL:
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Trouble understanding speech in noise
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Muffled or unclear hearing
Because noise-induced hearing loss is permanent, prevention is critical.
Safe Listening Tips to Protect Your Hearing
Use these simple strategies to reduce your risk of hearing loss due to noise exposure.
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Lower the volume on headphones and devices
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Take listening breaks in noisy environments
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Increase your distance from loud sound sources
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Wear earplugs at concerts, events, or while
working with loud equipment -
Act on warning signs like ringing or muffled hearing
Read more safe listening tips and check out decibel levels
of everyday sounds.
Consistent protection can significantly reduce your risk of
long-term damage.
CHC Offers Custom Earplugs
In most noisy environments, you'll find that over-the-counter foam earplugs offer adequate protection for your ears. But for greater comfort, safety, and a more satisfying listening experience, we offer custom earplugs at our offices in New York and Ft. Lauderdale.
Advantages to custom earplugs are:
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Individually molded for a precise, secure fit
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Designed for all-day comfort
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Available for music, sleep, travel, swimming, and workplace use
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Engineered to provide the right level of noise reduction for your needs
Your audiologist will take an impression of your ear and recommend the best solution—whether you need filtered sound for music or maximum noise blocking for work or recreation.
Earplugs for Every Need
Request an Appointment
Take the first step toward protecting your hearing.
Schedule an appointment with the Center for Hearing and Communication to:
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Assess your risk for noise-induced hearing loss
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Explore personalized hearing protection options
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Get fitted for custom earplugs
Protect your hearing today—schedule your appointment now.
Hearing Protection FAQs
How do I know if I need hearing protection?
If you’re regularly exposed to loud sounds—like concerts, traffic, power tools, or loud workplaces—you likely need hearing protection. A good rule of thumb: if you have to raise your voice to be heard, the environment is loud enough to potentially harm your hearing.
Are custom earplugs better than store-bought?
Custom earplugs are molded to your ears for a more comfortable, secure fit and provide more consistent, reliable protection. They’re especially beneficial if you wear earplugs frequently or for specific activities like music, sleep, or work.
How much noise is too loud?
Sounds at or above 70 decibels can damage your hearing over time. Common examples include heavy traffic, lawn mowers, and busy restaurants. Very loud sounds—like concerts or sirens—can cause damage even after short exposure.
Can hearing loss from noise be reversed?
No. Noise-induced hearing loss is permanent because it damages the inner ear—specifically the delicate hair cells in the cochlea that help convert sound into signals for the brain. Once these cells are damaged, they do not regenerate. However, this type of hearing loss is completely preventable with proper hearing protection and safe listening habits.
What type of earplugs are best for concerts or sleep?
For concerts, filtered earplugs lower volume while preserving sound clarity. For sleep, soft, full-block earplugs are best for reducing noise. Custom earplugs can be designed specifically for each use, providing both comfort and optimal protection.