Autumn is one of the best 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 family around the table at Thanksgiving. Now picture a situation where you are unable to hear those sounds or they are dulled.
Failing to experience these sounds can significantly lessen the cheery atmosphere. The good thing is, many hearing problems are non permanent and can be resolved by addressing underlying causes that are usually easy to fix or prevent. Follow these guidelines to protect your hearing and fully appreciate the autumn season.
How to safeguard your hearing
It is clear and undeniable that prolonged exposure to loud sounds can cause temporary hearing loss, and if the exposure continues over time, it can develop into a lasting condition. Excessive volume can damage the delicate components of your inner ear, so it is important to take measures to minimize the danger.
A sudden, extremely loud noise such as an explosion can result in temporary hearing impairment, and though prompt medical intervention may decrease the effect, it is tough to prevent. Prolonged exposure to sounds measuring 85 decibels or louder can cause hearing damage and is generally more preventable.
Heavy traffic comes in at 85 decibels, and sirens are measured at 120 decibels. Along with firecrackers and fireworks, loud music through earbuds can also pose a danger to your hearing. Be careful when boosting the volume, as the closeness of the sound to your eardrum can result in damage. (Regrettably, there are no exemptions for your favorite song when it comes to earbuds or headphones.)
Autumn’s celebrations often feature outdoor parties and live music performances. The weather is still beautiful, and you may find yourself in a park where you can spark up a grill and spread out a blanket. Take care, though, if you sit right in front of the speakers, you might be hit with a whopping 140 decibels. Concerts frequently reach hazardous decibel levels even at a significant distance.
What’s the most effective course of action to take?
The most ideal thing you can do for yourself is to wear earplugs. You will still be able to hear the music and appreciate the fireworks, just with less possible harm to your hearing. Avoid the urge to edge closer to the speakers as the evening wears on, no matter how enticing it may be.
Protect your ears from cold weather
It is essential to protect your ears from infections as the temperature decreases and the wind becomes more powerful. Be certain you and your family are wearing ear muffs or a hat. While ear infections are often related to children, they can also affect grown-ups, and it’s not only limited to parents and grandparents. Fluid accumulation in the middle ear is an outcome of these infections, which also result in irritation. Discharge from the ear, discomfort, and impaired hearing are potential symptoms you might experience.
Get immediate medical attention if you’re noticing symptoms of an ear infection. It could be an indication of another medical problem, and lack of treatment is hazardous not just for your hearing but also for your general health.
Gently and effectively eliminate earwax
Earwax, despite being annoying, plays a crucial role in catching dirt, bugs, and debris to stop them from entering your inner ear. If you have too much earwax, though, it can be a concern, especially if it blocks your hearing.
The first action in preventing hearing issues caused by earwax is prevention. You may have spent many years using a cotton swab or another tool to get rid of earwax, but it’s time to stop that practice. Using cotton swabs can force earwax deeper into your ear, possibly resulting in a buildup and impaired hearing.
Try cleaning your ears by using drops of hydrogen peroxide or buying over-the-counter drops. Allow the drops to sit there for a little while, then tilt your head to help with drainage. Think about consulting an audiologist or hearing specialist if ear cleaning seems daunting or if you suspect a severe blockage. They have specific instruments to make the job easier.
Prescription or over-the-counter drugs could be to blame
A sudden decline in your hearing abilities after starting a new medication could be a side effect of the medication itself. Some antibiotics, high amounts of aspirin, and different medications such as diuretics can cause issues with hearing. If this is an issue for you, contact your doctor immediately and inquire whether you should keep using your medications.
Don’t forget, any changes in your hearing should get checked out right away.
Get in touch with a hearing care specialist if you are experiencing hearing loss this season.