What is the primary cause of noise-induced hearing loss (NIHL)?

The primary cause of noise-induced hearing loss (NIHL) is exposure to loud noises. This type of hearing loss occurs when the hair cells in the cochlea are damaged due to excessive noise levels. When sounds exceed 85 decibels, particularly with prolonged exposure, they can lead to permanent damage to the auditory system and resultant hearing impairment.

Understanding the cause helps in preventing NIHL through protective measures, such as using earplugs or limiting time spent in noisy environments. Other factors such as genetic predispositions, aging, or medical conditions can influence hearing loss but are not direct causes of NIHL. Their roles in hearing impairment are more about contributing to overall susceptibility rather than being the primary driver behind this specific type of hearing loss.