A new study finds that noise-induced hearing loss (NIHL) not only impairs the ability to hear sounds but also disrupts the brain's decision-making and movement control.
Why it matters
Exposure to loud noise can reduce higher-level cognitive functions such as decision-making, attention, and motor skills independently of how well you can hear sound. Altogether, these results suggest extensive brain effects beyond traditional hearing problems.
The research
Loud noise is known to damage hearing, but this research reveals its broader cognitive impact. • Scientists trained gerbils to make decisions based on different sound patterns. • After inducing hearing loss, they tested the same animals again. • They carefully adjusted sound levels to ensure the gerbils could still hear the test sounds. • This isolated NIHL's direct effects on brain function from simple hearing difficulties.
The protocol: • 120 dB: Level of noise exposure (similar to a rock concert) • 2 hours: Duration of exposure causing permanent hearing damage
The results: • 30.8%: Increase in errors on simple tasks, suggesting major attention problems. • Notable changes in movement speed: Females got slower, males faster.
A closer look
Using advanced mathematical modeling, researchers found: • Slower information processing in the brain after hearing damage • Faster physical responses, possibly to compensate • Signs of increased mental fatigue and reduced motivation • Evidence that NIHL disrupts multiple brain systems simultaneously
The takeaway
The benefit of using hearing protection goes beyond preserving your hearing — it safeguards your brain's essential functions. The study highlights the need for effective hearing protection in general and especially in loud workplaces (where mental errors can lead to dire consequences) and early treatment of hearing loss.
Healthy hearing starts here
Healthy hearing starts with a free 15-minute hearing screening by an audiologist.
★ Call 708-599-9500 to schedule your free screening.
★ For facts about hearing loss and hearing aid options, download The Hearing Loss Guide.
★ Sign up for our newsletter for the latest on Hearing aids, dementia triggered by hearing loss, pediatric speech and hearing, speech-language therapies, Parkinson's Voice therapies, and occupational-hearing conservation. We publish our newsletter eight times a year.
Don't let untreated hearing loss spoil your quality of life.
Crest Hill, IL - 630-633-5060 | Palos Hills, IL - 708-599-9500
