The risk of sensorineural hearing loss from noisy toys and recreational activities in children and teenagers

Abstract

The present paper is a review of toys, playthings, games and recreational activities of children and teenagers implying dangerous sound levels and risk of hearing loss. One way of estimating the risk is by sound level measurements, another is by hearing tests, preferably related to noisy activities. One problem with this issue is the unknown sensitivity of children's hearing for loud sounds. This fact and the aggressive behavior of many children when using toys indicates the importance of information on these matters and a generally cautious and conservative attitude, particularly towards toys emitting impulsive sound, e.g. toy guns and firecrackers.

Keywords:

• hearing loss
• noise
• toys
• games
• recreation
• leisure
• children

Additional information

Notes on contributors

Alf Axelsson

Correspondence to: Alf Axelsson, Lindholmen Development, P.O. Box 8714, S-40275 Goteborg, Sweden