Autumn is one of the most enjoyable times of the year. Imagine yourself sitting back and enjoying the sounds– children laughing on Halloween, the leaves crunching as you walk, the fire crackling, and your loved ones around the table at Thanksgiving. Now imagine that you can’t hear those things or that they are muffled.
Failing to experience these sounds can dramatically lessen the festive atmosphere. Luckily, if you have problems with your hearing, it might be short-term and triggered by things that are easily avoided or fixable. Take these actions to protect your hearing, and enjoy fall to its fullest.
Tips for preserving your hearing
It is clear and undeniable that extended exposure to loud noises can result in temporary hearing loss, and if the exposure goes on over time, it can develop into a permanent condition. Excessive volume can damage the delicate parts of your inner ear, so it is essential to take measures to limit the danger.
A quick, extremely loud noise such as an explosion can trigger temporary hearing impairment, and although prompt medical assistance may reduce the effect, it is difficult to prevent. Lengthier exposure to sounds at 85 decibels or higher, though, can also cause hearing loss and is often easier to avoid.
The sound level of heavy traffic measures 85 decibels, while sirens reach a far louder 120 decibels. In addition to firecrackers and fireworks, loud music through earbuds can also pose a threat to your hearing. Be careful when boosting the volume, as the closeness of the sound to your eardrum can result in damage. (Regrettably, there are no exceptions for your favorite song when it comes to earbuds or headphones.)
Fall’s celebrations typically include outdoor get-togethers and live music performances. The enjoyable weather persists, making it an optimal time to head to a nearby park, where you can fire up a barbecue and enjoy a relaxing picnic on 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 away, the decibel level at concerts is usually in the danger zone.
So what should you do?
The best thing you can do for yourself is to wear earplugs. You will still be able to hear the music and enjoy the fireworks, just with less potential harm to your hearing. As tempting as it is, try not to keep creeping closer to those speakers as the night goes on.
Protect your ears from cold weather
It is essential to protect your ears from infections as the temperature drops and the wind becomes stronger. Be sure you and your family are using ear muffs or a hat. While ear infections are often related to children, they can also impact grown-ups, and it’s not only limited to parents and grandparents. Fluid build-up in the middle ear is a result of these infections, which also lead to irritation. Discharge from the ear, soreness, and impaired hearing are possible symptoms you may encounter.
If you have an ear infection, you should consult a doctor as soon as possible. It might be a sign of another medical concern, and lack of treatment is dangerous not only for your hearing but also for your overall health.
Safely clear out earwax
That annoying earwax may get on your nerves, but it performs the important purpose of trapping dirt, bugs, and debris before they reach your inner ear. If you have too much earwax, though, it can be a concern, especially if it blocks your hearing.
Prevention is essential to preventing hearing issues caused by earwax. You might have spent many years utilizing a cotton swab or another tool to remove earwax, but it’s time to stop that method. Cotton swabs push the wax into your ear canal, causing a blockage and hearing loss.
Consider utilizing ear cleaning solutions, including hydrogen peroxide or over-the-counter ear drops, to gently cleanse your ears. Allow the drops to sit for a short while, then incline your head to facilitate drainage. Consider getting in touch with an audiologist or hearing specialist if ear cleaning seems daunting or if you suspect a severe blockage. They have specific tools to make the job easier.
Medications may be the cause
If you started a new medicine and discovered that you suddenly have a more difficult time hearing, it could be the medication. Some antibiotics, high amounts of aspirin, and various medications such as diuretics can cause issues with hearing. If this is an issue for you, contact your doctor immediately and inquire whether you should continue taking your medications.
Be sure to have any decrease in your hearing promptly checked out.
If you’re detecting a decline in your hearing this season, consider consulting an audiologist or hearing specialist for guidance.