What is a common effect of prolonged exposure to high noise levels without protection?

Prolonged exposure to high noise levels without adequate hearing protection can lead to permanent damage to the hair cells within the inner ear, resulting in hearing loss. This type of hearing loss, often referred to as noise-induced hearing loss (NIHL), develops gradually and can be irreversible. It occurs when the sound waves, in excess of safe decibel levels, cause stress and strain on the auditory system, damaging the sensitive structures responsible for converting sound vibrations into signals that the brain interprets as sound.

Hearing loss due to excessive noise exposure can manifest in several ways, including difficulty understanding speech, trouble hearing high-pitched sounds, or a constant ringing in the ears (tinnitus). Preventing this condition is essential; therefore, wearing ear protection in high-noise environments is a critical practice to safeguard auditory health.