As the cool air and bright colors of autumn set in, so do the sounds that make this season unique, kids 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.
Fortunately, your autumn experience doesn’t need to be jeopardized because many of the causes of hearing loss can be prevented by taking some basic protective measures. By taking proactive steps to safeguard your hearing, you can ensure you don’t miss the sound of this fall’s magic.
Safeguard your hearing from loud noises
Loud noises are one of the most common causes of both temporary and permanent hearing impairment. Exposure to sounds over 85 decibels (dB) can damage the sensitive structures of your inner ear, resulting in hearing loss.
What are common sources of damaging 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 immediate medical care can help, it’s not always possible to counter the damage. Recurring exposure to loud noises, like going to concerts regularly, or listening to loud audio on headphones every day, can cause more permanent hearing loss.
Guidelines for safeguarding your ears in autumn
- Wear earplugs at events: If you attend outdoor concerts or Halloween get-togethers, use earplugs to reduce the volume without muting the experience.
- Avoid sitting near loudspeakers: While getting right up close to the action may be tempting, the noise level right beside the loudspeakers is harmfully loud and can absolutely damage your hearing.
- Turn down your headphones: In order to prevent damage, listen at a lower volume level and limit headphone usage.
Keeping your ears healthy when it’s cold out
As temperatures fall, remember to protect your ears from the chill. Cold weather can have a huge impact on your hearing, leaving you vulnerable to ear infections. Adults are just as vulnerable to ear infections as children, especially when exposed to cold and windy conditions.
The danger of ear infections
Cold air can cause inflammation and fluid accumulation in the middle ear, resulting in discomfort, pain, and temporary hearing loss. If an ear infection is neglected, it can affect both your hearing health and your general health, leading to more serious health issues.
Preventive measures for cold weather
- Pay attention to symptoms: If you feel pain, fluid draining from the ear, or experience sudden hearing loss, talk to a healthcare provider immediately for evaluation and treatment.
- Wear ear protection: Invest in earmuffs, headbands, or hats that completely cover your ears to keep them warm.
Safe ear cleaning tips
While earwax is frequently viewed as a nuisance, it plays a vital role in keeping your ears healthy by capturing dust, debris, and insects. However, excessive earwax can become troublesome, particularly if it blocks your hearing.
You should never clean your ears with cotton swabs as they can push earwax further into the ear canal and potentially cause ear damage. Here are some better cleaning options:
- Consult a professional: Come in to see us if you think you may have a wax blockage or if you’re uncertain how to best clean your ears. We can prevent further issues by using specialized tools to safely remove the earwax.
- Hydrogen peroxide drops: Utilize a few drops of hydrogen peroxide or an over-the-counter earwax solution to soften and clear away excess wax. Let the solution sit for several minutes, then tip your head to allow it to drain.
Medication-related hearing problems
Some medications can have unexpected side effects, including hearing problems. Your hearing can be impaired by certain common medications, including diuretics, antibiotics, and large doses of aspirin.
If you notice changes in your hearing after beginning a new medication, it’s important to contact your doctor. They can identify whether your hearing loss is due to the medication and advise you on the best plan 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.