What type of reaction can lead to permanent hearing loss?

Long-term reactions are those that occur as a result of sustained exposure to harmful stimuli, such as noise or harmful substances, over an extended period. This prolonged exposure can lead to cumulative damage in the auditory system, which might not be evident immediately but can result in permanent hearing loss over time.

For instance, individuals exposed to high decibel levels consistently may develop noise-induced hearing loss, a form of permanent hearing impairment caused by the gradual destruction of hair cells in the cochlea, which is critical for hearing. Unlike immediate or acute reactions, which might manifest symptoms quickly but may not necessarily result in lasting effects, long-term reactions tend to have a more insidious onset, often leading to significant, irreversible damage if preventive measures are not taken.

This focus on long-term exposure is essential in understanding occupational safety and health regulations, particularly in environments known for hazardous noise levels.