The fall season is a standout period in the annual calendar. Imagine yourself sitting 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 considerably diminish the cheery atmosphere. Luckily, if you have problems with your hearing, it may be temporary and triggered by things that are easily avoided or reparable. Take these actions to protect your hearing, and enjoy fall to its fullest.
Tips for preserving your hearing
There is unequivocal evidence showing that exposure to loud noises can lead to temporary hearing loss and that long-term exposure can turn it into an irreversible issue. Excessive volume can damage the delicate components of your inner ear, so it is essential to take steps to minimize the danger.
A single, very loud sound like an explosion can lead to temporary hearing loss, and while immediate medical attention can help minimize the effects, that’s hard to avoid. Prolonged exposure to sounds measuring 85 decibels or louder can cause hearing damage and is generally more preventable.
The sound level of heavy traffic is about 85 decibels, while sirens are a far 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. (Regrettably, there are no exceptions for your favorite song when it comes to earbuds or headphones.)
Fall’s celebrations often feature outdoor get-togethers and live music events. The enjoyable weather continues, making it an optimal time to head to a nearby park, where you can fire up a barbecue and take pleasure in a peaceful picnic on a blanket. Take care, though, if you sit right in front of the speakers, you might be confronted with a whopping 140 decibels. Even further back, the decibel level at concerts is often in the danger zone.
So what should you do?
Protecting your hearing by wearing earplugs is one of the most beneficial things you can do. By taking precautions, you can minimize the risk of hearing damage while still being able to completely enjoy the music and fireworks display. As tempting as it is, try not to keep sneaking closer to those speakers as the night goes on.
Keep your ears warm in chilly temperatures
It is imperative to safeguard your ears from infections as the temperature decreases and the wind becomes more powerful. Be sure you and your family are wearing ear muffs or a hat. You may think of your children and grandchildren when you consider ear infections, but adults get them too. Fluid accumulation in the middle ear is a result of these infections, which also lead to irritation. You might experience fluid draining from your ear, soreness, and hearing loss.
Get immediate medical attention if you’re noticing symptoms of an ear infection. Not seeking treatment for this problem, which might be a warning of a hidden medical condition, poses dangers to your health.
Carefully and successfully eliminate earwax
That pesky earwax might get on your nerves, but it performs the essential function of trapping dirt, bugs, and debris before they get into your inner ear. If you have too much earwax, though, it can be a problem, particularly if it obstructs your hearing.
Prevention is key to preventing hearing issues caused by earwax. You may have spent years grabbing a cotton swab or some other item to clear wax, but please break that habit. Using cotton swabs can jam earwax deeper into your ear, potentially resulting in a buildup and impaired hearing.
Think about utilizing ear cleaning solutions, such as hydrogen peroxide or store-bought ear drops, to carefully clean your ears. Allow the drops to sit for a short while, then incline your head to facilitate drainage. Consider getting in touch with an audiologist or hearing specialist if ear cleaning seems daunting or if you suspect a severe blockage. They have special instruments to make the job easier.
Medications may be the cause
If you started a new medicine and noticed that you suddenly have a harder time hearing, it could be the medication. Certain antibiotics, diuretics, large doses of aspirin, and other drugs can lead to hearing problems. If you are worried about this matter, contact your physician as soon as possible to figure out whether you should continue using your medication.
Remember, any changes in your hearing should get checked out immediately.
If you’re noticing a decrease in your hearing this season, think about speaking with an audiologist or hearing specialist for guidance.
