While it can be easy to take your hearing for granted, it is one of your most valuable senses. Being able to hear clearly makes it possible for you to communicate, build relationships and unite with your friends and loved ones. Learn what you can do to protect this precious sense.
While age-related hearing loss cannot be prevented, noise-induced hearing loss is preventable.
There are a few simple rules you can follow to help protect your hearing health, regardless of your age.
Sounds are considered harmful when they exceed 85 dB SPL, which is similar to the loudness of heavy traffic. Sound levels can soar to harmful levels in our everyday lives more often than you might think. Here are some noise comparisons (in dB SPL) for reference to help you limit your exposure to loud noises and thereby prevent hearing loss:
Do you suspect that you already have some degree of hearing loss?
It is important to seek help as soon as possible since hearing loss can deteriorate over time. We recommend that you book a free hearing test when you recognize the early signs in order to help reduce the risks of unmanaged hearing loss.
When to seek help
You can protect your hearing by limiting your exposure to loud sound environments - or by wearing hearing protection (such as ear plugs or earmuffs) when you know you'll be exposed to loud sounds.
The most common cause of tinnitus is due to loud noise that damages the sensory hair cells in the cochlea (a shell-like organ in the inner ear where sounds are converted into electrical signals). Damage to the hair cells in our ear can cause both tinnitus and hearing loss.
Some people with tinnitus may also experience some degree of hearing loss, but many tinnitus sufferers are not aware that their hearing may be suffering too.
BSc, M.Aud (Hons), MNZAS, CCC
Diem graduated from the University of Auckland in 2000 and began her career in the public sector at the National Audiology Centre. She then went on to work in London at a specialist paediatric hospital for 2 years.
On her return to New Zealand Diem worked for a hearing aid manufacturer for 5 years as a sales and product support audiologist before a move to the Bay of Plenty where she worked with adults and children for 5 years at a private clinic in Whakatane. This clinic also provided public hospital audiology support for the Eastern Bay of Plenty.
Diem has now been with Audika for the past 10 years in various roles, one of which was Clinical Trainer where she enjoyed being able to support her fellow clinicians to provide quality hearing care for all Audika clients. During this time, Diem was also on the NZAS Executive Council for two years. Her many years of experience and well-honed skills has allowed her to help reconnect her clients with their family and loved ones on their hearing journey.
Last reviewed 2025-07-01
