More then ever...

It's probably no surprise to you, but noise travels have steadily risen over the years. The reason? Primarily, technological
advances.Walkmans, loud stereos, clattering computer printers, more jet aircraft and heavier traffic levels are all
contributing to the increase in noise all around us.

And it's of ever-growing concern, because noise is one of the leading causes of hearing loss.

Why noise is the problem...
Sound is produced by the movement of air molecules generated by a vibrating object. The intensity of the vibration, or
loudness, is measured in units called decibls (db). For example, a soft whisper registers about 20 decibels; while an
air-raid siren measures as high as 140 db.

Sound vibrations are channeled into the ear canal to the eardrum. The eardrum vibrates, and the vibrations travel through
the bones of the middle ear to the fluid inside the cochlea of the inner ear. Inside the cochlea are thousands of tiny hair cells and nerve endings
which transfer the vibrations into nerve impulses, which are sent to the brain.

When a noise is too loud, it can damage the hair cells within the cochlea. And as exposure to loud noise increases, more
and more of these hair cells are damaged, resulting in a decrease in the quality of hearing.And when damage is severe, hearing loss is permanent.

The danger...

More then 8 hours of exposure to 90 decibels can cause a temporary hearing loss. Two hours at 100 db can mean somepermanent hearing loss. At 120 db, some of the sensitive hair cells in the inner ear that transmits sound will be immediately destroyed. And that
means irreversible hearing loss.

Flying can be a pain in the ear !
Here's what you can do to take the pain out of flying !

If you are a frequent or even casual air traveller, you know what we mean. On take off or descent preasure can build up
inside yur ears, you can't seem to pop them, and the discomfort can build to become downright painful.

Considering that today's jet planes travel at altitueds of thirty to forty thousand feet; where air pressure is significantly less
then at sea level - it's easy to understant that the difference between the pressure in your head and the pressure in the
airplane cabin can present problems, in spite of pressurized cabins.

Ear discomfort while flying is a very common problems, and here are a few simple tips that may prevent or reduce ear
problems for you:

  • Use nose drops (rather then spray) prior to and the during the flight.

  • Try pinching your nose shut, closing your mouth, and gently blowing out. This tehnique is called valsalva
    maneuver-forces air into the Eustachian tubes and helps to relieve some of the pressure build up.

  • Chew gum or suck on mints. This stimulates a frequent swallowing, which opens up and closes the Eustachian tubes
    and equalizes air pressure on both sides of the ear drum.

  • If you suffer from a serious respiratory infection like a severe cold or sinusitus, try to avoid flying altogether.

  • Don't forget the kids. Adults aren't the only ones who suffer ear discomfort while flying. Consider carring lollipops or
    chewing gum for them, to promote swallowing, this can help relieve the pressure in the ears.

What you can do about noise...

In two words: Avoid it. Or at least minimize prolonged exposure to loud noise. If you're exposed to it in the
workplace, wear protectors or ear plugs.

For in the office or home, bulky furniture, heavy catpeting and thick drapes help muffle sound.

And for the rest of the world, many people are looking to local government to curtail unwanted noise.
Contact your local city officials about noise ordinances and what you can do to help get
them enacted.