The use of pyrotechnics during the holidays poses serious risks for the Hearing health. Although rocket explosions and fireworks are often associated with celebrations, elevated levels of Noise that they create, can cause immediate and irreversible hearing damage.
Worldwide data from the World Health Organization (WHO) They roughly estimate that 1 billion young people are at risk of permanent hearing damage due to unsafe listening habits. They point out that “a single exposure to a extremely loud sound “It can damage cells in the inner ear and cause hearing loss.”
On your part the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) Warn that exposure to loud noise is a major cause of hearing loss and that this damage can affect hearing communicationthe development of Language and the social skills in infancy. Furthermore, they emphasize that the early diagnosis provides access to treatment and reduces negative impacts on daily life.
Explosions caused by pyrotechnics produce very strong noises that cause damage even after very short exposure structure and the operation of human ear. The WHO clarifies that “sound levels are unlikely to be lower than this.” 80dB Cause hearing damage. As the intensity of the sound increases, the risk of hearing damage also increases.”
As expressed Stella Maris CuevasENT doctor, in a note from Infobaethe roar of the fireworks reaches the 150dBor even exceed it, which poses a risk to hearing.
The Dr. Silvana SaldanaENT doctor, ear doctor, service of Italian Hospital of Buenos AiresHe pointed out a crucial difference: “The Fireworks noise It is considered noise impulsivei.e. a very high intensity noise that occurs suddenly and in an extremely short time. This distinguishes it from loud music or a concert, where the sound is continuous and the ear has some scope for activation despite its intensity Protective mechanisms. With firecrackers or fireworks, the sound pressure peak is so abrupt that these mechanisms do not work in time.”
The manifestation of Hearing damage It can occur immediately or delayed. In many cases, those affected only notice symptoms hours or days after the event. Those most at risk include Babies and toddlerswho can suffer serious consequences in their lives Language development and socialization if they experience untreated hearing loss, according to the CDC.
The Dr. Analia Nicassioa tinnitus specialist explained the most important symptoms in a conversation with him Infobae: “People may suspect that they have suffered hearing damage after exposure intense sounds through fireworks with the appearance of Hearing loss temporary or permanent, Otalgia (earache), Hyperacusis, Tinnitus (ringing in the ears) and less frequently dizziness. Occasionally they may also be present Otorrhagia (bleeding from the ear) as a result of perforation of the eardrum.”
He emphasized that the appearance of Notes does not necessarily mean that the damage is permanent, and therefore you should consult a professional immediately (including: 12 and 48 hours after exposure or appearance of symptoms). “Early diagnosis improves the prognosis of response to treatment,” said the expert.
Cuevas adds that the people who present Autism Spectrum Disorder either older adults with neurocognitive disorders show signs of this Fear and fear of explosions. “The festive atmosphere creates in these people Intolerance and short temper take them out of their usual routine and they may experience anxiety, crying fits, or episodes of self-harm.” Furthermore, he points out that “these effects also change the….” various domestic and wild animalsbecause they have a very developed hearing system.”
The specialist warns against this additional risks which are related to and can produce the chemical components present in fireworks Eye irritationbreathing difficulties and pollution. Like animals Dogs, cats, horses and birds Electric shocks, escape attempts resulting in injury and suffering, and poisoning from accidental ingestion of waste can occur.
As much as Avoid using fireworks Setting off fireworks by other people during the holidays can also have consequences. “It is important distance The closer the distance between the person and the sound source, the greater the intensity and the greater the damage. This means that we can suffer hearing loss even without participating in the action, just as a spectator,” Nicassio noted.
And he added: “There are two damage mechanisms to consider when exposed to noise: one for the biochemical changes which are produced in cells and others mechanic which can also affect the middle ear, Ruptured eardrumInterruption of the ossicular chain and rupture of the membrane of the oval or round window.
The speech therapist Maria Agustina Leiro offers a technical insight into the internal injuries these extreme noises can cause: “The Ear has no defense mechanisms against an explosive noise. The sound wave penetrates in milliseconds and can damage the hair cellsresponsible for converting sound into signals for the brain.”
“The sound effect transmits large amounts of energy directly to the inner ear and can damage the ear’s hair cells. Snailwhich are responsible for converting sound into nerve signals. Like these cells they don’t regeneratea single nearby detonation can cause one acoustic trauma immediately, even with a short presentation,” explained Saldaña Infobae.
The severity of acoustic trauma is increased in certain groups. According to the expert “ Childrenwhose hearing system is still in development, and the older peoplePeople who tend to have a lower hearing reserve are particularly at risk.”
“These people too Hyperacusis And Pre-existing tinnitus who can worsen their symptoms with noise exposure,” Nicassio added.
One of the biggest challenges lies in character silent this progress. “Acoustic trauma can progress Be silent“It doesn’t hurt, it doesn’t warn you and often the symptoms appear when the damage has already been identified,” warns Leiro, who is part of the organization GAES amplifier.
He recommends always favoring choice visual alternatives for fireworks or for prioritizing quiet rooms and protected, especially in children, older adults and people with Hearing sensitivity.
Most cases of Hearing loss Due to the strong noise pollution, they can be prevented. In light of unavoidable situations, the CDC highlights the following: Use of appropriate hearing protection and the distance from sound sources.
“The patient needs to know that There is no treatment This guarantees complete hearing restoration. Therefore, the use of Hearing protection devices “The most important thing is to prevent harm when exposure cannot be avoided,” Nicassio emphasized.
Saldaña agreed: “If possible, it is recommended to keep it distance Stay away from the source of the noise and avoid repeated exposure, especially to children and vulnerable people. Prevention is essentialas much of the hearing damage caused by noise is irreversible.”
Regarding the protection of risk groups, Stella Maris Cuevas advises: “It is indicated for children and babies.” Hearing protection in front of the nearby pyrotechnics. toast emotional containment. For older adults, prioritize a quiet environment and adjust or calibrate hearing aids when using them. Create for special people quiet environments and spaces“Never leave her alone.” That’s what the expert claims Avoid fireworks not only protects people’s health, but also takes care of them Welfare the entire environment and animals.
On the other hand, Nicassio emphasized: “It is important that people who cannot avoid exposure use barrier hearing protection devices (Earplugs) or electronic (sound suppression). Remember that damage is caused not only by sound, but also by the transmission of sound vibrationSo even with plugs, hearing damage can occur.”
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