Noise induced hearing loss (NIHL) is the second most common cause of hearing loss,    immediately following presbycusis which is hearing loss due to the natural aging process.  So what causes NIHL?  The answer is noise pollution.  We are constantly surrounded by sounds found in our natural environment, work place, and through our choice of hobbies and activities.  However, some sound levels are damaging to our ears without us even realizing.  These harmful levels can occur suddenly and when you least expect them.  Sometimes these effects subside within 24 hours after exposure, but other times they can become permanent resulting in NIHL.  NIHL will depend on the loudness of the sound (intensity), pitch (frequency), and the length of time we are exposed to the damaging sound.  Contact Dr. Sosa to learn more about NIHL, what you can do to prevent it, and how to protect the hearing you do have.  Get a head start by reading about some of the different types of hearing protection devices and personal earpieces listed below, and remember NIHL is preventable!