(HealthDay News) -- Prolonged exposure to loud noise can cause permanent hearing loss. So if you're exposed to loud noise on the job or at home, the American Academy of Family Physicians suggests how you can protect your hearing:

• Wear disposable earplugs or special earmuffs when exposed to loud noise.
• Use rubber mats under noisy kitchen appliances.
• Install sound-absorbing draperies, carpeting and storm windows.
• Limit the volume on loud electronic devices.
• Don't use several noisy machines at once or use one loud noise to drown out another.
• Get an annual hearing test.