The fall season is a standout time in the yearly 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 situation where you are unable to hear those sounds or they are dulled.
Failing to experience these sounds can substantially lessen the cheery atmosphere. Luckily, if you have problems with your hearing, it may be short-term and triggered by things that are easily avoided or reparable. Take these steps to safeguard your hearing, and enjoy fall to its fullest.
How to safeguard your hearing
It is clear and undisputed that prolonged exposure to loud noises can result in non permanent hearing impairment, and if the exposure continues over time, it can develop into a lasting condition. Excessive volume can damage the delicate components of your inner ear, so it is important to take steps to limit the danger.
A one-time, very loud sound like an explosion can cause temporary hearing loss, and while immediate medical attention can help limit the effects, that’s difficult to avoid. Prolonged exposure to sounds measuring 85 decibels or louder can lead to hearing damage and is generally more preventable.
The sound level of heavy traffic is about 85 decibels, while sirens are a much louder 120 decibels. In addition to firecrackers and fireworks, loud music through earbuds can also present a threat to your hearing. Be careful when increasing the volume, as the proximity of the sound to your eardrum can result in damage. Regrettably, there are no special allowances for enjoying your preferred song with earbuds or headphones.
Fall’s celebrations typically include outdoor parties and live music performances. The enjoyable weather continues, making it an ideal time to head to a nearby park, where you can fire up a barbecue and enjoy a relaxing picnic on a blanket. Be careful, though, if you sit right in front of the speakers, you may be hit with a whopping 140 decibels. Concerts frequently reach unsafe decibel levels even at a significant distance.
What’s the best course of action to take?
The most ideal thing you can do for yourself is to wear earplugs. You will still be able to hear the music and appreciate the fireworks, just with reduced potential damage to your hearing. As alluring as it is, try not to keep creeping closer to those speakers as the night passes.
Safeguard your ears from cold weather
Protecting your ears as the weather gets colder and more blustery is essential to avoid infections. Make certain 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 consider ear infections, but adults get them as well. Fluid accumulation in the middle ear is an outcome of these infections, which also lead to irritation. You may experience fluid draining from your ear, pain, and hearing loss.
Get immediate medical attention if you’re experiencing symptoms of an ear infection. Not seeking treatment for this issue, which could be a warning of an underlying medical condition, presents dangers to your well-being.
Carefully and effectively eliminate earwax
That annoying earwax may get on your nerves, but it serves the essential purpose 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 blocks your hearing.
Prevention is key to avoiding hearing issues caused by earwax. You may have spent many years using a cotton swab or another tool to get rid of earwax, but it’s time to stop that practice. Making use of cotton swabs can jam earwax deeper into your ear, possibly leading to a blockage and impaired hearing.
Try cleaning your ears by using drops of hydrogen peroxide or buying over-the-counter drops. Allow the drops to sit for a little while, then incline your head to facilitate drainage. If you don’t want to clean your ears or are afraid that the blockage is too great, visit a hearing professional. They have special instruments to make the job easier.
Medications may be the cause
If you started a new medication and discovered that you suddenly have a more difficult time hearing, it could be the medication. Some antibiotics, large amounts of aspirin, and various medications such as diuretics can trigger issues with hearing. If you are worried about this matter, contact your physician right away to find out whether you should continue taking your medication.
Don’t forget, any changes in your hearing need to get assessed immediately.
If you’re noticing a decline in your hearing this season, consider speaking with an audiologist or hearing specialist for assistance.
