The fall season is a standout time in the yearly calendar. Imagine yourself settling back and enjoying the sounds– kids laughing on Halloween, the leaves crunching as you walk, the fire crackling, and your loved ones around the table at Thanksgiving. Now imagine that you can’t hear those things or that they are muffled.
Missing out on these sounds can take the enjoyment out of the season. The good news is, if you have issues with your hearing, it might be short-term and triggered by things that are easily avoided or fixable. Take these actions to safeguard your hearing, and enjoy autumn to its fullest.
How to safeguard your hearing
It is clear and undeniable that extended exposure to loud noises can result in temporary hearing loss, and if the exposure continues over time, it can become a permanent condition. Excessive volume can damage the delicate components of your inner ear, so it is essential to take measures to minimize 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 difficult to avoid. Prolonged exposure to sounds measuring 85 decibels or louder can lead to hearing damage and is typically more preventable.
The noise level of heavy traffic measures 85 decibels, while sirens reach a much louder 120 decibels. Firecrackers and fireworks can also harm your hearing. Reconsider putting in earbuds and cranking up the music, as the sound is even closer to your inner ear. Regrettably, there are no special allowances for enjoying your preferred song with earbuds or headphones.
Among the joys of fall are outdoor gatherings and performances. The weather is still lovely, and you may find yourself in a park where you can spark up a grill and spread out a blanket. Use prudence when sitting directly beside the speakers as you could be exposed to a powerful 140 decibels of sound. Concerts frequently reach hazardous decibel levels even at a significant distance.
What’s the best course of action to take?
Protecting your hearing by using earplugs is one of the most beneficial things you can do. You will still be able to hear the music and enjoy the fireworks, just with reduced possible harm to your hearing. Avoid the impulse to nudge closer to the speakers as the evening wears on, no matter how enticing it might be.
Keep your ears warm in cool temperatures
It is imperative to protect your ears from infections as the temperature decreases and the wind becomes more powerful. Make sure that you and your family have on ear protection like ear muffs or a hat. While ear infections are frequently related to kids, they can also affect grown-ups, and it’s not just limited to parents and grandparents. These infections cause fluid to accumulate in your middle ear, and they lead to inflammation. Discharge from the ear, soreness, and impaired hearing are potential symptoms you might encounter.
If you have an ear infection, you should consult a physician as soon as possible. It could be a sign of another medical concern, and lack of treatment is hazardous not just for your hearing but also for your overall health.
Safely clear out earwax
That pesky earwax might get on your nerves, but it serves the essential purpose of trapping dirt, bugs, and debris before they reach your inner ear. However, a surplus of earwax can become an issue, especially if it impedes your ability to hear effectively.
The first step in preventing hearing issues caused by earwax is prevention. You might have spent many years using a cotton swab or another tool to remove earwax, but it’s time to stop that practice. Using cotton swabs can force earwax deeper into your ear, possibly leading to a blockage and impaired hearing.
Try cleaning your ears by putting in drops of hydrogen peroxide or buying over-the-counter drops. Let the drops sit for a few minutes, and then tilt your head to let them drain. Think about consulting an audiologist or hearing specialist if ear cleaning seems daunting or if you suspect a severe blockage. They have special instruments to make the job easier.
Prescription or over-the-counter drugs could be to blame
If you beging taking a new medication and noticed that you suddenly have a more difficult time hearing, it might be the medication. Certain antibiotics, diuretics, large doses of aspirin, and other drugs can lead to hearing problems. If this is a problem for you, call your doctor immediately and ask whether you should continue using your medications.
Remember, any changes in your hearing need to get assessed immediately.
Contact a hearing care professional if you are noticing hearing loss this season.