Autumn is one of the most enjoyable times of the year. Imagine yourself sitting back and enjoying the sounds– kids 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 muted.
Failing to experience these sounds can dramatically diminish the cheery atmosphere. Luckily, if you have problems with your hearing, it may be short-term and triggered by things that are easily avoided or reparable. Follow these suggestions to protect your hearing and fully appreciate the autumn season.
Tips for preserving your hearing
There is indisputable evidence revealing that exposure to loud noises can result in short-term hearing loss and that repeated exposure can turn it into a permanent problem. Excessive volume can harm the delicate components of your inner ear, so it is important to take steps to minimize the danger.
A sudden, extremely loud noise like an explosion can trigger temporary hearing impairment, and though prompt medical intervention might decrease the impact, 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. Firecrackers and fireworks can also damage your hearing. Reconsider putting in earbuds and turning up the music, as the sound is even closer to your inner ear. (Unfortunately, there are no exceptions for your favorite song when it comes to earbuds or headphones.)
Among the highlights of fall are outdoor gets together and performances. The weather is still beautiful, and you may find yourself in a park where you can set up a grill and spread out a blanket. Take care, though, if you sit directly in front of the speakers, you may be confronted with a whopping 140 decibels. Even further away, 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. You will still be able to hear the music and enjoy the fireworks, just with reduced potential harm to your hearing. As alluring as it is, try not to keep creeping closer to those speakers as the night goes on.
Keep your ears safe in cool temperatures
It is essential to protect your ears from infections as the temperature drops and the wind becomes stronger. Make certain that you and your family have on ear protection like ear muffs or a hat. While ear infections are often associated with 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 inflammation. You might experience fluid draining from your ear, pain, and hearing loss.
If you have an ear infection, you should consult a physician right away. It might be an indication of another medical issue, and lack of treatment is dangerous not just for your hearing but also for your general health.
Safely clear out earwax
That annoying earwax might get on your nerves, but it serves the essential purpose of trapping dirt, bugs, and debris before they get into your inner ear. However, a surplus of earwax can become a problem, especially if it obstructs your ability to hear properly.
The first step in avoiding hearing problems caused by earwax is prevention. You may have spent decades grabbing a cotton swab or some other item to clear wax, but please break that habit. Using cotton swabs can jam earwax deeper into your ear, possibly resulting in a blockage and impaired hearing.
Consider using ear cleaning solutions, such as hydrogen peroxide or over-the-counter ear drops, to carefully cleanse your ears. Allow the drops to sit for a little while, then tilt your head to help with drainage. If you don’t want to clean your ears or are worried that the blockage is too great, consult a hearing specialist. Special tools are available to them that will simplify the job.
Prescription or over-the-counter medicines might be to blame
An abbrupt decline in your hearing abilities after starting a new prescription might be a side effect of the medication itself. Certain antibiotics, diuretics, large doses of aspirin, and other drugs can lead to hearing problems. If this is an issue for you, contact your physician immediately and ask whether you should continue using your medications.
Don’t forget, any changes in your hearing need to get checked out right away.
If you’re detecting a decline in your hearing this season, consider speaking with an audiologist or hearing specialist for guidance.