Noise Induced Hearing Loss or NIHL can also be caused by loud noises, typically above 85 dB over extended periods of time or by a single extremely loud burst of sound (acute acoustic trauma). Typically a gunshot or explosion of some kind could cause immediate and irreversible noise induced hearing loss. NIHL is the most common form of hearing loss in North America today. The most common culprits are recreational activities such as listening to excessively loud music, attending loud concerts or sporting events.