Did you know that fireworks can produce a sound output in the 150 to 175 decibel range? Noise at, or above, 85 dBA over a prolonged period of time may start to damage your hearing. Loud noise above 120 dBA can cause immediate harm to your ears. Risky noise exposure can cause the following symptoms after a loud noise has stopped: temporary hearing loss (sounds seem muffled, quieter or less clear) and tinnitus (a ringing, buzzing, roaring or rushing sound in the ear, which has no source outside the ear).
Although these symptoms may stop after a few hours, research suggests that there may be residual long-term hearing damage. If these symptoms continue after 24 hours, please consult your physician. Always wear earplugs when watching fireworks to protect your ears and reduce noise-induced hearing loss.
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