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 family around the table at Thanksgiving. Now picture a scenario where you are unable to hear those sounds or they are dulled.
Failing to experience these sounds can considerably diminish the cheery atmosphere. The good news is, if you have issues with your hearing, it may be temporary and triggered by things that are easily avoided or fixable. Follow these guidelines to protect your hearing and fully savor the autumn season.
Tips for protecting your hearing
It is clear and undisputed that extended exposure to loud noises can result in non permanent hearing loss, and if the exposure goes on over time, it can develop into a lasting condition. Loud noises damage the sensitive parts of your inner ear, and you should do what you can to mitigate the issue.
A quick, extremely loud noise such as an explosion can result in short-term hearing impairment, and though prompt medical assistance might reduce the effect, it is tough to prevent. Longer exposure to sounds at 85 decibels or higher, however, can also cause hearing loss and is often easier to avoid.
Heavy traffic comes in at 85 decibels, and sirens come in at 120 decibels. Along with firecrackers and fireworks, loud music through earbuds can also present 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 exceptions for your favorite song when it comes to earbuds or headphones.)
Autumn’s festivities typically include outdoor parties and live music performances. The weather is still lovely, and you may find yourself in a park where you can set up a grill and lay down a blanket. Use prudence when sitting directly in front of the speakers because you could be dealing with a powerful 140 decibels of sound. Even further back, the decibel level at concerts is usually in the danger zone.
What’s the best course of action to take?
The best thing you can do for yourself is to use earplugs. By taking precautions, you can decrease the danger of hearing damage while still being able to fully experience the music and fireworks display. Resist the impulse to nudge closer to the speakers as the evening goes on, no matter how tempting it might be.
Keep your ears warm in chilly temperatures
It is essential to safeguard your ears from infections as the temperature decreases and the wind becomes more powerful. Be sure you and your family are using ear muffs or a hat. While ear infections are frequently associated with kids, they can also affect grown-ups, and it’s not just limited to parents and grandparents. These infections cause fluid to build up in your middle ear, and they lead to irritation. You might experience fluid draining from your ear, pain, and hearing loss.
If you have an ear infection, you should see a physician as soon as possible. Not seeking treatment for this issue, which might be a warning of an underlying medical condition, presents risks to your health.
Gently and successfully eliminate earwax
That pesky earwax might get on your nerves, but it serves the important function of trapping dirt, bugs, and debris before they get into your inner ear. However, a surplus of earwax can become a problem, particularly if it obstructs your ability to hear properly.
The first step in avoiding hearing issues caused by earwax is prevention. You may have spent years grabbing a cotton swab or some other item to clean wax, but please break that habit. Using cotton swabs can jam earwax deeper into your ear, potentially resulting in a blockage and impaired hearing.
Try cleaning your ears by putting in drops of hydrogen peroxide or buying over-the-counter drops. Allow the drops to sit there for a short while, then incline your head to help with drainage. If you don’t want to clean your ears or are afraid that the blockage is too much, visit a hearing professional. They have special instruments to make the job easier.
Medications may be the cause
A sudden decline in your hearing abilities after beginning a new medication could be a side effect of the medication itself. Some antibiotics, diuretics, large doses of aspirin, and other drugs can lead to hearing problems. If you are concerned about this matter, contact your doctor as soon as possible to figure out whether you should continue using your medication.
Be sure to have any decrease in your hearing immediately examined.
Contact a hearing care specialist if you are experiencing hearing loss this season.