As the crisp air and vibrant colors of autumn roll in, so do the sounds that make this season unique, kids laughing as they trick-or-treat, the satisfying crunch of leaves underfoot, and the crackling of a warm fire. Now imagine how much less enjoyable your fall experience will be if those sounds start to fade away.
Fortunately, your autumn experience doesn’t need to be compromised because many of the causes of hearing loss can be prevented by taking some basic protective steps. Make sure you don’t miss fall’s wonderful soundscape, and be assertive about protecting your hearing.
Protect your hearing from loud noises
Loud noises are one of the most prevalent causes of both temporary and permanent hearing loss. Hearing loss can begin to occur when you’re exposed to noises louder than 85 decibels (dB) resulting in damage to the sensitive structures of the inner ear.
What are typical sources of damaging noise?
- Heavy traffic: 85 dB
- Sirens: 120 dB
- Outdoor concerts and events: Often 90-140 dB
One-time loud events can result in temporary hearing loss, and while prompt medical care can help, it’s not always possible to counter the damage. More prolonged exposure to high decibel levels, including regularly attending concerts or using loud headphones on a daily basis, can also cause permanent problems.
Tips for protecting your hearing in autumn
- Turn down your headphones: In order to avoid damage, listen at a lower volume level and limit headphone usage.
- Wear earplugs at events: Utilize earplugs at Halloween parties or outdoor concerts to give your ears some level of protection while still allowing you to enjoy yourself.
- Avoid sitting near loudspeakers: While getting right up next to the action may be enticing, the noise level right beside the loudspeakers is dangerously loud and can definitely damage your hearing.
Cold weather and ear health
As temperatures go down, remember to safeguard your ears from the chill. Cold weather can leave your ears vulnerable to infections, which in turn can affect your hearing. Adults are just as susceptible to ear infections as children, especially when exposed to cold and windy conditions.
The danger of ear infections
Cold air can lead to discomfort, temporary hearing loss, and pain because it can cause fluid accumulation and swelling of the middle ear. If an ear infection goes untreated, it can affect both your hearing health and your overall health, leading to more serious health issues.
Protecting your ears when it’s cold
- Wear ear protection: Invest in earmuffs, headbands, or hats that fully cover your ears to keep them warm.
- Pay attention to symptoms: If you feel pain, fluid draining from the ear, or experience sudden hearing loss, contact a healthcare provider immediately for evaluation and treatment.
Guidelines for safe ear cleaning
While earwax is frequently viewed as a nuisance, it plays a vital role in keeping your ears healthy by capturing dust, debris, and insects. However, an overabundance of earwax can block your ear canal and result in significant problems.
You should never clean your ears with cotton swabs as they can push earwax further into the ear canal and potentially cause ear damage. Here are some better cleaning solutions:
- Consult a professional: If you’re unsure about cleaning your ears or suspect you have a wax blockage, come see us for a consultation. We can prevent further problems by making use of specialized tools to safely remove the earwax.
- Hydrogen peroxide drops: Utilize a few drops of hydrogen peroxide or an over-the-counter earwax solution to soften and clear out excess wax. After the drops have been in your ear for a few minutes, tip your head to allow for drainage.
Hearing loss induced by medication
Some medications can have unexpected side effects, including hearing issues. Your hearing can be impaired by some common medications, such as diuretics, antibiotics, and large doses of aspirin.
If you notice changes in your hearing after beginning a new medication, it’s important to contact your physician. They can identify whether your hearing loss is related to the medication and advise you on the best course of action.
As soon as you notice signs of hearing loss, take action
Fall is filled with memorable sounds you don’t want to miss. Make an appointment for a consultation if you notice any changes to your hearing.