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 family 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 significantly lessen the festive atmosphere. Fortunately, many hearing problems are non permanent and can be resolved by dealing with underlying causes that are often easy to correct or prevent. Follow these suggestions to protect your hearing and fully savor the autumn season.
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 goes on over time, it can become a lasting condition. Loud noises damage the delicate parts of your inner ear, and you should do what you can to mitigate the problem.
A one-time, very loud noise like an explosion can lead to temporary hearing loss, and while prompt medical attention can help minimize the effects, that’s hard to avoid. Prolonged exposure to sounds measuring 85 decibels or louder can lead to hearing damage and is typically more preventable.
Heavy traffic clocks in at 85 decibels, and sirens come in at 120 decibels. Along with firecrackers and fireworks, loud music through earbuds can also present a danger to your hearing. Be cautious when boosting the volume, as the proximity of the sound to your eardrum can result in damage. (Unfortunately, there are no exceptions for your favorite song when it comes to earbuds or headphones.)
Autumn’s celebrations typically feature outdoor get-togethers and live music events. The pleasant weather persists, making it an optimal time to head to a local park, where you can fire up a barbecue and enjoy a relaxing picnic on a blanket. Exercise caution when sitting directly in front of the speakers as you could be dealing with a powerful 140 decibels of sound. Even further back, the decibel level at concerts is often in the danger zone.
What’s the best course of action to take?
Safeguarding your hearing by using earplugs is one of the most beneficial things you can do. By taking safety measures, you can decrease the danger of hearing damage while still being able to fully experience the music and fireworks display. Resist the urge to nudge closer to the speakers as the evening wears on, no matter how tempting it may be.
Safeguard your ears from cold weather
It is imperative to protect your ears from infections as the temperature decreases and the wind becomes more powerful. Be certain you and your family are wearing ear muffs or a hat. While ear infections are often associated with children, they can also impact grown-ups, and it’s not just limited to parents and grandparents. These infections cause fluid to accumulate in your middle ear, and they result in irritation. Discharge from the ear, discomfort, and impaired hearing are possible symptoms you might encounter.
If you have an ear infection, you should see a doctor as soon as possible. Not seeking treatment for this issue, which might be a warning of a hidden medical condition, presents risks to your well-being.
Carefully and successfully eliminate earwax
That annoying earwax may get on your nerves, but it serves the essential purpose of trapping dirt, bugs, and debris before they reach your inner ear. However, a surplus of earwax can become an issue, particularly if it obstructs your ability to hear effectively.
Prevention is key to avoiding hearing issues caused by earwax. You may have spent decades grabbing a cotton swab or some other item to clean wax, but please break that habit. Making use of cotton swabs can force earwax deeper into your ear, possibly leading to a blockage and impaired hearing.
Try cleaning your ears by using drops of hydrogen peroxide or purchasing over-the-counter drops. Allow the drops to sit there for a little while, then tilt your head to facilitate drainage. If you don’t want to clean your ears or are afraid that the blockage is too much, visit a hearing specialist. Specialised tools are available to them that will streamline the job.
Medications may be the cause
If you beging taking a new medication and noticed that you suddenly have a more difficult time hearing, it could be the medication. Some antibiotics, diuretics, large doses of aspirin, and other drugs can lead to hearing problems. If this is an issue for you, call your doctor right away and ask whether you should continue taking your medications.
Be sure to have any decrease in your hearing promptly checked out.
If you’re detecting a decrease in your hearing this season, consider speaking with an audiologist or hearing specialist for assistance.