Claim: Hearing loss may be triggered by constant exposure to excessive noise levels.

Noise-induced hearing loss -LRB- NIHL -RRB- is hearing impairment resulting from exposure to loud sound . People may have a loss of perception of a narrow range of frequencies , impaired cognitive perception of sound , or other impairment , including sensitivity to sound or ringing in the ears .   Hearing may deteriorate gradually from chronic and repeated noise exposure , such as loud music or background noise , or suddenly , from a short high intensity noise such as a gunshot or airhorn . In both types , loud sound overstimulates delicate hearing cells , leading to the permanent injury or death of the cells . Once lost , hearing can not be restored in humans . When exposure to hazards such as noise occur at work and is associated with hearing loss , it is referred to as occupational hearing loss .   There are a variety of prevention strategies available to avoid or reduce hearing loss . If not prevented , hearing loss can be managed through assistive devices and cognitive therapies . Prevention is the best defense against noise-induced hearing loss . The best , first option for protecting hearing is lowering the volume of sound at its source . Secondly , limiting the time of exposure to loud noise can reduce injury . Finally , physical protection from the noise can reduce its impact . Government regulations are designed to limit occupational exposure to dangerously loud noise .   The largest burden of NIHL , has been through occupational exposures ; however , noise-induced hearing loss can also be due to unsafe recreational , residential , social , and military service-related noise exposures . It is estimated that 15 % of young people are exposed to sufficient leisure noises -LRB- i.e. concerts , sporting events , daily activities , personal listening devices , etc. -RRB- to cause NIHL . There is not a limited list of noise sources that can cause hearing loss . Rather , it is important to understand that exposure to excessively high decibel levels from any sound source over time , can cause hearing loss .