Autumn is one of the most enjoyable times of the year. Imagine yourself settling back and enjoying the sounds– kids laughing on Halloween, the leaves crunching as you walk, the fire crackling, and your loved ones around the table at Thanksgiving. Now picture a scenario where you are unable to hear those sounds or they are dulled.
Failing to hear these sounds can substantially diminish the festive atmosphere. Luckily, if you have issues with your hearing, it may be short-term and triggered by things that are easily avoided or fixable. Take these steps to safeguard your hearing, and enjoy autumn to its fullest.
Tips for protecting your hearing
It is clear and undeniable that extended exposure to loud sounds can result in non permanent hearing impairment, and if the exposure goes on over time, it can become a permanent condition. Excessive volume can damage the delicate components of your inner ear, so it is important to take measures to minimize the danger.
A sudden, extremely loud noise such as an explosion can trigger temporary hearing loss, and though timely medical assistance might decrease the effect, it is difficult to prevent. Prolonged exposure to sounds measuring 85 decibels or louder can lead to hearing damage and is generally more preventable.
The noise level of heavy traffic is about 85 decibels, while sirens reach a much louder 120 decibels. Firecrackers and fireworks can also damage your hearing. Reconsider putting in earbuds and turning up the music, as the sound is even closer to your inner ear. (Unfortunately, there are no exemptions for your favorite song when it comes to earbuds or headphones.)
Autumn’s festivities often include outdoor get-togethers and live music events. The enjoyable weather continues, making it an ideal time to head to a nearby park, where you can fire up a barbecue and take pleasure in a relaxing picnic on a blanket. Be careful, though, if you sit directly in front of the speakers, you might be hit with a whopping 140 decibels. Concerts frequently reach hazardous decibel levels even at a considerable distance.
What’s the most effective course of action to take?
Safeguarding your hearing by wearing earplugs is one of the most helpful 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. Avoid the urge to edge closer to the speakers as the evening goes on, no matter how enticing it may be.
Protect your ears from cold weather
Safeguarding your ears as the weather cools down and more windy is essential to avoid infections. Make sure that you and your family are wearing ear protection like ear muffs or a hat. You might think of your children and grandchildren when you think of ear infections, but adults get them too. These infections cause fluid to accumulate in your middle ear, and they lead to irritation. You may experience fluid draining from your ear, soreness, and hearing loss.
If you have an ear infection, you should consult a physician right away. Not seeking treatment for this issue, which could be a warning of a hidden medical condition, presents dangers to your health.
Gently and successfully eliminate earwax
That pesky earwax might get on your nerves, but it performs the essential function of capturing dirt, bugs, and debris before they reach your inner ear. If you have too much earwax, though, it can be a concern, particularly if it obstructs your hearing.
The first step in preventing hearing issues caused by earwax is prevention. You might have spent years grabbing a cotton swab or some other item to clear wax, but please break that habit. Cotton swabs force the wax into your ear canal, causing a blockage and hearing loss.
Think about using ear cleaning solutions, including hydrogen peroxide or store-bought 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. Special tools are available to them that will simplify the job.
Medications may be the cause
If you beging taking a new medicine and noticed that you suddenly have a more difficult time hearing, it might be the medication. Some antibiotics, high amounts of aspirin, and various medications such as diuretics can trigger issues with hearing. If you are concerned about this matter, contact your physician right away to figure out whether you should continue using your medication.
Don’t forget, any changes in your hearing should get checked out immediately.
Contact a hearing care professional if you are noticing hearing loss this season.