As the cool air and bright colors of autumn set in, so do the sounds that make this season unique, children laughing as they trick-or-treat, the gratifying 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.
Luckily, your autumn experience doesn’t need to be jeopardized because many of the causes of hearing loss can be prevented by taking some simple protective measures. By taking hands-on steps to protect your hearing, you can ensure you don’t miss a beat of this fall’s magic.
Protect your hearing from loud noises
The most common cause of both permanent and temporary hearing loss is exposure to loud sounds. Exposure to sounds above 85 decibels (dB) can compromise the sensitive structures of your inner ear, resulting in hearing impairment.
Harmful noise – some common sources
- Sirens: 120 dB
- Outdoor concerts and events: Often 90-140 dB
- Heavy traffic: 85 dB
One-time loud events can trigger temporary hearing loss, and while prompt medical care can help, it’s not always possible to counter the damage. More sustained exposure to high decibel levels, including regularly attending concerts or using loud headphones on a daily basis, can also cause permanent issues.
Autumn hearing protection tips
- Wear earplugs at events: If you go to outdoor concerts or Halloween gatherings, bring earplugs to lower the volume without muting the experience.
- Turn down your headphones: Reduce headphone use and decrease the volume to prevent damage over time.
- Avoid sitting near loudspeakers: While it’s tempting to get close to the action, sitting right by the speakers at an event can subject you to hazardously loud noise levels.
Cold weather and ear health
Remember to protect your ears from the cold as temperatures drop. Cold weather can have a huge impact on your hearing, leaving you vulnerable to ear infections. Ear infections are more prevalent when it’s cold out and both adults and children are vulnerable.
The danger of ear infections
Cold air can trigger swelling and fluid buildup in the middle ear, resulting in discomfort, pain, and temporary hearing loss. Neglected ear infections can cause more serious complications, affecting both your hearing and overall health.
Preventive measures for cold weather
- Wear ear protection: Invest in earmuffs, headbands, or hats that completely cover your ears to keep them warm.
- Pay attention to symptoms: Get assessed 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 guidelines
While earwax is frequently viewed as a nuisance, it plays a crucial role in keeping your ears healthy by trapping dust, debris, and insects. However, too much earwax can become problematic, especially if it blocks your hearing.
Many people use cotton swabs to clean their ears, but this common habit can actually push the wax further into your ear canal, creating blockages and even harming the ear. Here are some better cleaning options:
- Consult a professional: If you’re unsure about cleaning your ears or suspect you have a wax blockage, visit us for a consultation. We can safely remove the wax with specialized tools and prevent further problems.
- Hydrogen peroxide drops: Soften the earwax by utilizing over-the-counter earwax solutions or a few drops of hydrogen peroxide. After the drops have been in your ear for several minutes, tilt your head to allow for drainage.
Medication-related hearing issues
Some medications can have unforeseen side effects, including hearing problems. Common medications such as certain antibiotics, diuretics, and even large dosages of aspirin can impair your hearing.
If you notice changes in your hearing after beginning a new medication, it’s essential to contact your doctor. They can identify whether your hearing loss is due to the medication and advise you on the best course of action.
Take action at the first sign of hearing loss
Fall is filled with memorable sounds you don’t want to miss. Schedule an appointment for a consultation if you notice any changes to your hearing.
