Meluvahinko

Meluvahinko is a Finnish term referring to damage to the hearing system caused by loud noise. It is commonly associated with noise-induced hearing loss and tinnitus and can arise from occupational exposure or non-occupational sources. The term is used in health and insurance contexts to describe injuries that result from excessive noise levels over time or from a single loud event.

The risk increases with higher sound levels and longer exposure. Prolonged exposure to workplace noise at or above about 85 dB(A) over an eight-hour period can gradually damage cochlear hair cells, leading to permanent hearing loss. Impulsive or sudden noises can cause immediate damage. A characteristic audiogram notch around 3–6 kHz is often observed in noise-induced hearing loss.

Symptoms include reduced ability to hear, especially speech in noisy environments, muffled hearing, and tinnitus (ringing or buzzing). Diagnosis relies on medical history and audiometric testing, which measures hearing thresholds across frequencies. Early detection supports timely management and prevention of further damage.

Prevention focuses on reducing noise exposure and protecting hearing. Measures include engineering controls to lower noise at the source, administrative controls to limit exposure, and personal protective equipment such as earplugs or earmuffs. Regular hearing tests and participation in a hearing conservation program are recommended in high-noise workplaces and for individuals frequently exposed to loud environments.

In Finland, meluvahinko is a recognized concept within occupational health and social insurance. If noise exposure leads to a compensable hearing injury, the claim may be handled under statutory accident insurance or other social security provisions. Verification requires documentation of exposure and the causal link to the diagnosed loss. For guidance, consult authorities such as Kela and occupational health services.