Autumn is one of the most enjoyable times of the year. Imagine yourself settling back and enjoying the sounds– children laughing on Halloween, the leaves crunching as you walk, the fire crackling, and your loved ones around the table at Thanksgiving. Now imagine that you can’t hear those things or that they are muted.
Failing to hear these sounds can substantially diminish the cheery atmosphere. The good thing is, many hearing issues are non permanent and can be managed by dealing with underlying causes that are usually easy to correct or prevent. Follow these suggestions to safeguard your hearing and fully savor the fall season.
Tips for protecting your hearing
There is unequivocal evidence revealing that exposure to loud sounds can result in short-term hearing loss and that long-term exposure can turn it into an irreversible problem. Excessive volume can damage the delicate components of your inner ear, so it is important to take steps to limit the danger.
A quick, extremely loud noise such as an explosion can trigger short-term hearing impairment, and although prompt medical intervention may reduce the impact, it is tough to prevent. Lengthier exposure to sounds at 85 decibels or higher, however, can also cause hearing loss and is often easier to avoid.
The noise level of heavy traffic measures 85 decibels, while sirens reach a much louder 120 decibels. In addition to firecrackers and fireworks, loud music through earbuds can also pose a threat to your hearing. Be cautious when increasing the volume, as the closeness of the sound to your eardrum can cause damage. (Unfortunately, there are no exemptions for your favorite song when it comes to earbuds or headphones.)
Among the highlights of autumn are outdoor gets together and performances. The enjoyable weather continues, making it an optimal time to head to a local park, where you can fire up a barbecue and enjoy a peaceful picnic on a blanket. Be careful, though, if you sit directly in front of the speakers, you may be confronted with a whopping 140 decibels. Concerts frequently reach hazardous decibel levels even at a significant distance.
So what can you do?
Protecting your hearing by wearing earplugs is one of the most beneficial things you can do. You will still be able to hear the music and appreciate the fireworks, just with less potential damage to your hearing. Resist the urge to nudge closer to the speakers as the evening goes on, no matter how tempting it might be.
Protect your ears from cold weather
It is essential to safeguard your ears from infections as the temperature decreases and the wind becomes stronger. Be sure you and your family are using ear muffs or a hat. While ear infections are often associated with children, they can also impact grown-ups, and it’s not only limited to parents and grandparents. These infections cause fluid to build up in your middle ear, and they lead to inflammation. You might experience fluid draining from your ear, soreness, and hearing loss.
Seek immediate medical attention if you’re experiencing symptoms of an ear infection. It could be an indication of another medical concern, and lack of treatment is hazardous not only for your hearing but also for your general health.
Safely clean out earwax
That pesky earwax might get on your nerves, but it serves the essential function of trapping dirt, bugs, and debris before they get into your inner ear. However, an overabundance of earwax can become an issue, particularly if it obstructs your ability to hear properly.
The first step in preventing hearing issues caused by earwax is prevention. You might have spent many years utilizing a cotton swab or another tool to get rid of earwax, but it’s time to stop that method. Making use of cotton swabs can force earwax deeper into your ear, potentially resulting in a buildup and impaired hearing.
Consider using ear cleaning solutions, such as hydrogen peroxide or over-the-counter ear drops, to carefully clean your ears. Let the drops sit for a few minutes, and then tip your head to let them drain. Consider consulting an audiologist or hearing specialist if ear cleaning seems daunting or if you suspect a severe blockage. They have specific tools to make the job easier.
Prescription or over-the-counter medicines could be to blame
A sudden decrease in your hearing abilities after beginning a new medication could be a side effect of the medication itself. Some antibiotics, high amounts of aspirin, and different medications like diuretics can cause problems with hearing. If this is an issue for you, call your physician right away and ask whether you should continue using your medications.
Remember, any changes in your hearing need to get checked out immediately.
If you’re noticing a decrease in your hearing this season, consider speaking with an audiologist or hearing specialist for guidance.