Damage to the hearing mechanisms within the inner ear may result from explosion near the ear, certain musicians, long exposure to loud noises such as loud music or loud machinery, or other recreational sound such as hunting.
Acoustic trauma is a form of occupational hearing loss .
Wear protective ear plugs or earmuffs to protect against damage from loud equipment. Beware of risks connected with activities such as shooting guns, using chain saws, driving motorcycles, or driving snowmobiles or similar vehicles. Do not listen to loud music for long periods of time. Audiometry may determine the extent of the hearing loss. The hearing loss may not be correctable.