The fall season is a standout period in the annual calendar. Picture yourself in a cozy setting, enveloped by the warmth and joy of the season – the sound of children’s laughs on Halloween, the rustle of leaves under your feet on a crisp autumn day, the soothing crackle of a fire, and the love and laughter of family gathered around the table on Thanksgiving. Now picture a scenario where you are unable to hear those sounds or they are dulled.
Missing out on these sounds can take the enjoyment out of the season. The good thing is, many hearing issues are non permanent and can be resolved by addressing underlying causes that are often simple to correct or prevent. Take these actions to safeguard your hearing, and enjoy autumn to its fullest.
Tips for preserving your hearing
It is clear and undisputed that prolonged exposure to loud noises can result in non permanent hearing loss, and if the exposure continues over time, it can become a lasting condition. Excessive volume can harm the delicate parts of your inner ear, so it is essential to take steps to limit the danger.
A single, very loud noise like an explosion can cause temporary hearing loss, and while immediate medical attention can help minimize the effects, that’s hard to avoid. Longer 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. Along with firecrackers and fireworks, loud music through earbuds can also pose a danger to your hearing. Be cautious when increasing 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.)
Among the highlights of autumn are outdoor gets together and performances. The pleasant weather persists, making it an optimal time to head to a nearby park, where you can fire up a barbecue and take pleasure in a relaxing picnic on a blanket. Take care, though, if you sit right in front of the speakers, you might be hit with a whopping 140 decibels. Even further back, the decibel level at concerts is usually in the danger zone.
What’s the most effective course of action to take?
The best thing you can do for yourself is to use earplugs. You will still be able to hear the music and appreciate the fireworks, just with reduced possible damage to your hearing. As tempting as it is, try not to keep creeping closer to those speakers as the night goes on.
Safeguard your ears from cold weather
Safeguarding your ears as the weather cools down and more blustery is important to prevent infections. Be sure you and your family are wearing ear muffs or a hat. You may think of your children and grandchildren when you think of ear infections, but adults get them as well. Fluid build-up in the middle ear is an outcome of these infections, which also lead to inflammation. You may experience fluid draining from your ear, pain, and hearing loss.
If you have an ear infection, you should see a doctor right away. Not seeking treatment for this issue, which could be a warning of an underlying medical condition, presents risks to your well-being.
Safely clear out earwax
That annoying earwax might get on your nerves, but it serves the important function of trapping dirt, bugs, and debris before they reach your inner ear. However, an overabundance of earwax can become a problem, especially if it impedes your ability to hear properly.
The first action in preventing hearing issues caused by earwax is prevention. You may have spent years grabbing a cotton swab or some other item to clean wax, but please break that habit. Cotton swabs push the wax into your ear canal, causing a blockage and hearing loss.
Try cleaning your ears by putting in drops of hydrogen peroxide or buying over-the-counter drops. Allow the drops to sit there for a little while, then incline 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 professional. They have special instruments to make the job easier.
Prescription or over-the-counter drugs could be to blame
A sudden decline in your hearing abilities after beginning a new prescription could be a side effect of the medication itself. Certain antibiotics, diuretics, large doses of aspirin, and other drugs can lead to hearing problems. If you are concerned about this matter, contact your doctor as soon as possible to find out whether you should keep using your medication.
Remember, any changes in your hearing need to get assessed right away.
Get in touch with a hearing care specialist if you are experiencing hearing loss this season.