Extended partying and clubbing in noisy places could result in permanent hearing damage. While most people can withstand levels of 90dB (decibels) for up to eight hours, the maximum exposure limit for a nightclub, where volumes exceed 110dB, can be under 15 minutes. Tinnitus, or ringing in the ears on leaving a noisy environment is a sign that some damage has been caused.
Follow these sensible tips to defeat deafness and party safely:
Give your ears time to recover. Two hours’ exposure to 100dB sound levels, often found in pubs, cinemas and restaurants, require at least 16 hours of rest for the ears if the hearing loss is not to become permanent. Use earplugs. As well as blocking out excess noise, they will improve your ability to make out conversation. Take regular breaks from the music or other noise source. Aim for at least a 10-minute break every hour. Avoid standing too close to the speakers or noise source. Make less frequent visits to noisy events. Although hearing damage can be caused by exposure to a single blast of noise, noise-induced hearing loss tends to be cumulative.