Guest post: Hearing Loss Caused by Hunting

Hi my name is John O'Connor, I am a father, outdoorsman and passionnate about living a healthy lifestyle. Over the past few years I have become more and more interested in hearing loss. My father and grandfathers, who are and were all hunters, are affected by hearing loss. I feel that there is a general lack of understanding around this issue and it is our job to spread awareness where we can. Check out my blog at: bloggingwjohno.blogspot.com

Noise-Induced Hearing Loss Caused by Hunting

If you are ever exposed to noise that is loud or extremely loud for an extended period of time, you could experience noise-induced hearing loss, often referred to as NIHL. These loud sounds can damage sensitive structures in the ears called hair cells which can result in hearing loss. When the hair cells are damaged, they won't submit the correct signals to the brain when sound enters your ears. Many may not think this but some recreational activities can cause hearing loss. Hunting and shooting in general are common causes of noise-induced hearing loss. Safety while hunting is important, and ear protection is equally critical.

Effects of Noise-Induced Hearing Loss

 
Loud sounds can damage both the hair cells and the hearing nerve in the ear. An impulse sound is a one-time exposure to an intensely loud sound that can cause permanent or temporary loss in hearing. It also may result in tinnitus which is a buzzing, ringing or roaring sound in the ears. Both conditions can also occur during exposure to loud sounds over time. In this case, the damage is progressive. With hunting, you probably won't notice the damage right away. In either case, temporary or permanent damage is possible. If it's temporary, it may disappear in about 16 to 48 hours.

Hunting is a common cause of hearing loss because of extended loud sounds. The sound of a shotgun or rifle next to the ear repeatedly can damage the hair cells over time. Hunters frequently rely on hearing. Proper protection will allow hunters to preserve their hearing. My father who has been hunting for years is affected severely by hearing loss. He often times while hunting throughout the years neglected his hearing. Although not the only cause of his hearing loss, his doctors say that hunting did play a major role in him losing his hearing. In his late 70’s now, he wears hearing aids to amplify sounds and increase his overall hearing levels.

Protection at the Shooting Range and While Hunting

There are several different kinds of ear protection including electronic headsets and passive earmuffs. Earmuffs come in a variety of styles including behind the neck, over the head or cap-mounted. Earmuffs are typically less expensive than the electronic type. Electronic headsets are equally as effective as earmuffs but with added benefits. Hunters need to hear what's going on around them, which is difficult with earmuffs. Electronic headsets allow them to listen to normal sound levels but kick in for protection during shooting. Other features include volume controls and automatic shut off. Electronic headsets do cost more and require batteries.
Protecting your ears every time you hunt is extremely important. Even if you seem fine after hunting without protection in the beginning, you might not realize that the damage is building up. The hair cells in your ears are withering away every time you shoot a firearm without protection. Whether you're in a shooting range or out hunting, use proper ear protection. Spending a little more money on protective electronic earmuffs will allow you to get the full hunting experience while preserving your hearing now and for the future.

John O'Connor