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- $Unique_ID{BRK00365}
- $Pretitle{}
- $Title{Hairdryers and Loss of Hearing}
- $Subject{hearing hair dryer noise Sense senses hear loud intensity decibels
- time exposed exposure}
- $Volume{F-21}
- $Log{}
-
- Copyright (c) 1991-92,1993 Tribune Media Services, Inc.
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-
- Hairdryers and Loss of Hearing
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-
- QUESTION: I recently read a booklet about loss of hearing due to loud noises.
- Does that mean the dryer at my hairdresser may be a dangerous device that can
- be robbing me of my hearing?
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-
- ANSWER: The effects of loud sounds upon hearing depend upon two factors, the
- intensity of the sound (how loud, measured in decibels) and the amount of time
- you are exposed to the sound. Obviously all dryers do not make the same
- amount of sound, but you may assume that if the noise level is high enough to
- interfere with understanding speech, it may be high enough to do some damage,
- but only if you are exposed to it for a long enough period of time. I doubt
- that either the intensity or exposure time to beauty parlor hair dryers
- qualify. The amount of discomfort you may be suffering can not help us
- evaluate the situation, as that does not relate directly to the possible
- damage. You may be wise, however, to obtain a pair of ear plugs, or use
- wadded cotton in your ears to reduce your hazard.
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-
- The material contained here is "FOR INFORMATION ONLY" and should not replace
- the counsel and advice of your personal physician. Promptly consulting your
- doctor is the best path to a quick and successful resolution of any medical
- problem.
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-