How loud is too loud? When is a sound too loud? What can be done about sounds/noises that are too loud for you?
Determining how loud is too loud varies from person to person. However, there are some general guidelines and thresholds established by experts.
The threshold for what is considered too loud is typically defined by the measure of decibels (dB). Prolonged exposure to sounds above 85 dB can be harmful to your hearing.
To give you an idea of typical sound levels, here are some examples:
- Regular conversation: Approximately 60 dB.
- Busy street traffic: Around 70 dB.
- Concerts or sporting events: Can range from 90 dB to over 100 dB.
- Jet engines or firearms: Can exceed 120 dB.
When a sound reaches a volume that causes discomfort, pain, or interferes with your ability to focus or communicate, it is generally considered too loud. Additionally, if you experience symptoms such as ringing in the ears (tinnitus) or temporary hearing loss after being exposed to a loud sound, that is a sign that it was likely too loud.
If you encounter sounds that are too loud for you, there are several actions you can take to protect your hearing:
1. Move away from the source of the loud sound: Increasing the distance between yourself and the noise can significantly reduce its intensity.
2. Use hearing protection: Wear earplugs or earmuffs specifically designed to reduce noise levels. These can be especially useful in loud environments like concerts, construction sites, or factories.
3. Limit exposure time: If encountering loud sounds is unavoidable, try to limit the duration of your exposure as much as possible.
4. Seek professional help: If you find that your sensitivity to loud sounds is affecting your daily life or causing significant discomfort, consult an audiologist or healthcare professional for further evaluation and guidance.
Remember, it’s important to protect your hearing as prolonged exposure to loud sounds can lead to permanent hearing loss or other hearing-related issues.