Military personnel are frequently exposed to extreme noise levels during training and active duty. Whether from gunfire, explosions, aircraft, or heavy machinery, prolonged exposure can cause permanent hearing loss and tinnitus. Many army veterans and service members may not realise the early warning signs until their hearing is significantly affected, but if you have served in the MOD a claim for compensation for army deafness and or tinnitus can be made.
Hearing loss does not always happen instantly, one off gun fire or explosion for instance or commonly it can develop gradually over time. If you served in the military and suspect your hearing has been impacted, understanding the early warning signs and seeking professional advice is crucial.
FAQs: Military Hearing Loss and Tinnitus
If you have served for the Ministry of Justice post 1987 have believe you may have suffered army hearing loss and or tinnitus please read on, you may have a claim for compensation.
1. What Are the Early Signs of Hearing Damage?
Many people with military hearing loss only recognise the symptoms when they become severe. Some common early indicators include:
• Difficulty understanding conversations, especially in noisy environments like restaurants or group settings.
• Frequently asking others to repeat themselves or misunderstanding words.
• Turning up the TV or radio volume higher than what others find comfortable.
• Experiencing persistent ringing, buzzing, or hissing in the ears (tinnitus).
• Struggling to hear high-pitched sounds, such as alarms or birdsong.
• A feeling of fullness or pressure in the ears after exposure to loud noise.
If you notice any of these symptoms, it’s essential to schedule a professional hearing test as soon as possible.
2. How Can Military Noise Exposure Cause Long-Term Hearing Loss?
In the military, frequent exposure to loud noise can cause permanent damage to the hair cells inside the inner ear. These cells do not regenerate, meaning hearing loss from noise exposure is irreversible.
Common military noise hazards include:
• Gunfire and artillery blasts during training and active combat.
• Explosions, IEDs, and blast exposure in war zones.
• Helicopter, aircraft, and tank noise during operations.
• Sustained exposure to high-noise environments (e.g., engine rooms, firing ranges).
Even if you don’t experience immediate symptoms, repeated exposure can lead to gradual hearing decline over time.
3. What Other Factors Can Worsen Hearing Loss?
Hearing damage isn’t just caused by loud noise. Other contributing factors include:
• Cold weather – Reduces circulation to the ears, worsening symptoms.
• Tinnitus – Many veterans experience military tinnitus after loud noise exposure. Over time, tinnitus can interfere with speech comprehension and make background noise harder to process.
• Ear infections and wax build-up – Common among those exposed to harsh environments, leading to temporary or permanent hearing loss.
• Head injuries – Concussions and blast exposure can damage the auditory system, affecting hearing and balance.
4. How Loud is Too Loud? Understanding Noise Levels in Military Training
Sound is measured in decibels (dB), and prolonged exposure above 85dB can lead to permanent hearing damage. Military personnel are regularly subjected to noise levels far above this threshold:
• Gunfire (140-190dB) – Immediate hearing damage without protection.
• Artillery and explosions (180dB+) – Can cause instant ear trauma.
• Helicopters and aircraft (100-130dB) – Long-term exposure can lead to progressive hearing loss.
• Tanks and heavy machinery (110dB+) – Sustained exposure increases the risk of hearing loss.
Without proper hearing protection, these noise levels can cause irreversible damage over time.
5. Can Hearing Loss Lead to Other Health Issues?
Yes. Studies show that untreated hearing loss is linked to other serious health conditions, including:
• Cognitive decline & dementia – Hearing loss doubles the risk of dementia.
• Parkinson’s disease – A 10dB increase in hearing loss raises the risk of Parkinson’s by 57%.
• Mental health issues – Many veterans with hearing loss experience anxiety, depression, and social withdrawal.
Getting a hearing test early can help prevent these complications and improve quality of life.
Have You Suffered Hearing Damage After Military Service?
If you believe your hearing was damaged due to loud noise exposure in the Army, RAF, or other military roles, you may be entitled to compensation. At Hutcheon Law, we specialise in military deafness and tinnitus claims, helping veterans and service personnel secure the compensation they deserve.
For expert legal guidance, contact us today for our No Win, No Fee, Army Veteran’s Army Deafness Compensation Service.
Other organisations that may be of help:
