Pune: Young adults are flocking to family doctors and ear-nose-throat (ENT) specialists, complaining about ear problems like ringing sounds, hearing loss, and dizziness.
The overwhelming noise from the towering sound systems and traditional drum beats during the two-day long celebrations has left behind a wave of ear-related health issues in the city.
Noise levels during the immersion processions soared to between 90 and 109.2 decibels, which is significantly higher than what the human ear can tolerate for long periods.
ENT specialists, like Dr. Nilesh Madkikar, are seeing an increasing number of patients reporting symptoms like whistling in the ears, ear pain, and reduced hearing.
According to Dr. Madkikar, the delicate nerves in the ear are particularly susceptible to loud noise, and prolonged exposure can cause irreversible damage if not treated in time. He advises individuals experiencing these symptoms to seek medical attention within 48 hours to prevent permanent hearing loss.
ENT specialist Dr. Netra Pathak, who has been treating multiple young patients recently, pointed out that many of them had been dancing directly in front of the loudspeakers during the processions. These patients are now suffering from tinnitus, a condition characterized by a persistent ringing or whistling sound in the ears.
With noise pollution levels exceeding 120 decibels during the celebrations, well above the permissible limits in residential areas, experts warn that both short- and long-term hearing damage could become more prevalent.
Key Symptoms of Noise-Induced Hearing Issues:
Persistent ringing or whistling in the ears (tinnitus)
Reduced hearing capacity
Ear pain or pressure
Numbness or discomfort in the ears
