Autumn brings in its own compelling sounds you won’t want to miss, including the crackling of a warm fire, leaves crunching under your feet, and kids laughing and playing. Now imagine how much less pleasant your fall experience will be if those sounds start to fade away.
Luckily, your autumn experience doesn’t need to be compromised because many of the causes of hearing loss can be prevented by taking some simple protective measures. Make sure you don’t miss fall’s wonderful soundscape, and be assertive about safeguarding your hearing.
Protect your hearing from loud noises
The most common cause of both permanent and temporary hearing loss is exposure to loud noises. Hearing loss can begin to happen when you’re exposed to sounds above 85 decibels (dB) causing damage to the sensitive structures of the inner ear.
What are typical sources of harmful noise?
- Outdoor concerts and events: Often 90-140 dB
- Sirens: 120 dB
- Heavy traffic: 85 dB
One-time loud events can cause temporary hearing loss, and while prompt medical care can help, it isn’t always possible to reverse the damage. Recurring exposure to loud noises, like attending concerts regularly, or listening to loud audio on headphones every day, can result in more irreversible hearing loss.
Autumn hearing protection tips
- Avoid sitting beside loudspeakers: While it’s tempting to get close to the action, sitting right next to the speakers at an event can expose you to hazardously loud noise levels.
- Turn down your headphones: Limit headphone usage and lower the volume to prevent damage over time.
- Wear earplugs at events: Utilize earplugs at Halloween parties or outdoor concerts to give your ears some degree of protection while still allowing you to enjoy yourself.
Keeping your ears healthy when it’s cold out
Remember to safeguard your ears from the cold as temperatures drop. Cold weather can leave your ears vulnerable to infections, which in turn can affect your hearing. Ear infections are more common when it’s cold out and both adults and children are vulnerable.
The danger of ear infections
Cold air can cause discomfort, temporary hearing loss, and pain because it can cause fluid accumulation and inflammation of the middle ear. Neglected ear infections can cause more serious complications, affecting both your hearing and total health.
Protecting your ears when it’s cold
- Wear ear protection: Invest in earmuffs, headbands, or hats that completely cover your ears to keep them warm.
- Pay attention to symptoms: Get evaluated and treated by a healthcare provider right away if you experience sudden hearing loss, have pain in your ear, or have any fluid draining from your ear.
Safe ear cleaning tips
While earwax is often viewed as a nuisance, it plays a crucial 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 considerable issues.
You should never clean your ears with cotton swabs as they can jam earwax further into the ear canal and potentially cause ear damage. Better cleaning solutions include:
- 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, tilt your head to allow for drainage.
- Consult a professional: Come in to see us if you suspect you may have a wax blockage or if you’re uncertain how to best clean your ears. We can safely clear out the wax with specialized tools and prevent further issues.
Hearing loss induced by medication
Some medications can have unforeseen side effects, including hearing problems. Common medications including certain antibiotics, diuretics, and even large doses of aspirin can impair your hearing.
If you observe changes in your hearing after starting a new medication, it’s essential to contact your physician. They can determine whether your hearing loss is due to the medication and advise you on the best course of action.
As soon as you detect signs of hearing loss, take action
Fall is filled with unique sounds you don’t want to miss. If you notice any changes in your hearing, don’t hesitate to schedule an appointment with us for a comprehensive evaluation.