A sonic hangover is the term often used to describe the lingering physical and mental effects you feel after being exposed to prolonged or intense loud sound, like at a concert, club, or festival.
Common Symptoms:
- Muffled hearing
- Ringing in the ears
- (temporary tinnitus)
- Ear fatigue or pressure
- Headache or brain fog
- Sensitivity to sound the next day
What’s Actually Happening?
During a loud event (90–120+ dB), your inner ear's tiny hair cells—which help transmit sound to your brain—get overworked or temporarily stunned.
- This can cause:
- A temporary threshold shift
- Inner ear inflammation or fluid pressure changes
- Early signs of noise-induced hearing damage if repeated too often
Why It Matters
While the symptoms usually fade within 12–48 hours, repeated exposure without protection can cause permanent damage, including chronic tinnitus and hearing loss.