What does severe damage look like?

When the inner ear is traumatized by specific drugs or loud noises some of the hair cells and support cells within the cochlea can be damaged or killed. When the damage is severe enough these cells are ejected from the cochlea. In humans both forms of damage are permanent and are leading causes of deafness. How can you avoid damaging your ears? Always wear ear plugs or safety earmuffs in any situation where you are exposed to loud noises. This includes rock concerts, machine shops, shooting ranges, etc. Keep the music low on your stereo headphones. As for preventing hearing loss due to antibiotic drugs always read the labels on any drugs you take. Ask your doctor if there are any side affects or substitutes. The drugs that most often cause hearing loss are those in the Aminoglycoside family, which are normally prescribed as a last resort to fight serious, life threatening infections.

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