Isn’t pizza great? As long as it meets a few standard criteria (crust, sauce, cheese, etc.) whatever the toppings, it’s still pizza. That’s also like hearing loss. As long as you are having trouble hearing sound, whether it’s related to an obstruction, age, loud noise, or anything else, it’s still hearing loss.
Normally, when you’re confronted with hearing loss (no matter the variety), the first thing you need to do is try to minimize the damage. This is only one simple measure you can take to protect your hearing from further damage.
Tip 1: Clean your Ears
Remember when your parents used to always ask “did you clean behind your ears”? When it comes to hearing health, we’re not worried about the space behind your ears, but instead your inner ears.
Keeping your ears clear of wax accumulation can help your hearing in a number of different ways:
- When wax accumulation becomes substantial, it can block sound waves from reaching your inner ear. Your hearing becomes compromised as a result.
- Earwax buildup also impedes the operation of your hearing aid if you use one. This could make it seem like your hearing is worsening.
- Your brain and your ability to interpret sounds can be affected over time by untreated hearing loss.
- Your ability to hear can be obstructed by inflammation which is caused by profound ear infection as a result of dirty ears. When your ear infection clears up, your normal hearing will typically come back.
If you notice earwax accumulation, it’s absolutely not suggested that you dig around in there with a cotton swab. In most cases, a cotton swab will make things worse or cause added damage. Instead, use over-the-counter ear drops.
Tip 2: Loud noise that could contribute to hearing loss should be avoided
This one is so instinctive it almost shouldn’t be on the list. The issue is that most individuals are hard-pressed to define what a “loud noise” actually is. There are lots of hazards to your hearing in day-to-day life including things as common as driving on a loud freeway every day over long periods. The motor on your lawnmower can be pretty taxing on your ears also. And, be mindful to safeguard your hearing during those 4th of July fireworks!
Some practical ways to avoid damaging noises include:
- When decibel levels get too high, you can use an app on your phone to let you know.
- When you can’t avoid being in a loud setting, wear hearing protection. If you want to attend a loud rock concert or if you work in a noisy factory that’s okay but don’t forget your hearing protection. Modern earmuffs and earplugs provide ample protection.
- Avoid turning up the volume on your headphones when you’re streaming videos or listening to music. Most cellphones have built-in alerts when you’re nearing a dangerous level.
So if you go to a noisy event and your hearing feels fine after, that doesn’t mean it is, because hearing loss is often a slow progression. Your hearing can only get a clean bill of health by a hearing specialist.
Tip 3: Treat any hearing loss you might have
Generally speaking, hearing loss is accumulative. So you’ll be better able to avoid further damage if you catch it early. So when it comes to hearing loss, this is the reason why getting it treated is so significant. Your hearing will be in the best possible condition when you follow the treatment plan we will provide for you.
Here’s how treatments work:
- We will help you avoid further damage by providing you with customized advice and guidelines.
- Hearing aids can stop some, but not all, damage. For example, hearing aids will prevent you from turning your television volume up so loud it harms your ears. Because hearing aids stop this damage, they can also prevent further deterioration of your hearing.
- Mental strain, social isolation, and other hearing loss-associated health issues can be prevented by hearing aids.
Minimize hearing loss – it will help you in the long run
Treatment is one of the primary ways to prevent hearing loss despite the fact that there is no cure. Treating your hearing loss correctly will prevent further damage while maintaining your current degree of hearing.
In the years to come you will be providing yourself with the best opportunity for healthy hearing if you get hearing loss treatment from us, use hearing protection, and practice quality hygiene!