Noise ‘mimics MS in effect on nerves’

Loud music played on earphones causes deafness by having a similar effect on nerves to multiple sclerosis (MS), scientists have learned.
By The Newsroom
Published 29th Aug 2012, 07:00 BST

New research shows that noise levels above 110 decibels strip insulation from nerve fibres 
carrying signals from the ear to the brain.

Loss of the protective coating, called myelin, disrupts electrical nerve signals.

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The same process, this time due to an attack from the immune system, damages nerves in the brain and results in MS.

Loud noises are well known to lead to hearing problems such as temporary deafness or tinnitus (ringing in the ears).

But this is the first time scientists have been able to identify the 
underlying damage to nerve 
cells.

The findings are published in the journal Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences.

The scientists, led by Dr Martine Hamann, from the University of Leicester, found that myelin lost as a result of noise exposure regrows in time, meaning hearing can recover.