Autumn is one of the best times of the year. Imagine yourself sitting back and enjoying the sounds– children 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 muted.
Missing out on these sounds can take the pleasure out of the season. Luckily, if you have problems with your hearing, it might be short-term and triggered by things that are easily avoided or fixable. Take these steps to protect your hearing, and enjoy autumn to its fullest.
How to safeguard your hearing
There is unequivocal evidence showing that exposure to loud sounds can lead to temporary hearing loss and that repeated exposure can turn it into a long-term problem. Loud noises damage the delicate parts of your inner ear, and you should do what you can to minimize the problem.
A quick, extremely loud noise like an explosion can trigger temporary hearing loss, and though prompt medical intervention may reduce the impact, it is tough to prevent. Prolonged exposure to sounds measuring 85 decibels or louder can cause hearing damage and is generally more preventable.
The noise level of heavy traffic is about 85 decibels, while sirens are a much louder 120 decibels. Firecrackers and fireworks can also damage 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 exemptions for your favorite song when it comes to earbuds or headphones.)
Fall’s festivities typically feature outdoor get-togethers and live music performances. The weather is still beautiful, and you might find yourself in a park where you can set up a grill and spread out a blanket. Exercise caution when sitting directly in front of the speakers because 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 most effective course of action to take?
Protecting your hearing by wearing 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 less possible damage to your hearing. Resist the urge to edge closer to the speakers as the evening goes on, no matter how tempting it might be.
Safeguard your ears from cold weather
It is essential to protect your ears from infections as the temperature decreases and the wind becomes stronger. Be certain you and your family are wearing ear muffs or a hat. While ear infections are frequently associated with children, they can also affect grown-ups, and it’s not just limited to parents and grandparents. Fluid build-up in the middle ear is a result of these infections, which also lead to irritation. You may experience fluid draining from your ear, soreness, and hearing loss.
Get immediate medical attention if you’re noticing symptoms of an ear infection. It could be an indication of another medical concern, and lack of treatment is dangerous not only for your hearing but also for your overall health.
Safely clear out earwax
Earwax, despite being annoying, plays a crucial role in catching dirt, bugs, and debris to stop them from reaching your inner ear. If you have too much earwax, though, it can be a problem, particularly if it blocks your hearing.
The first action in avoiding hearing issues caused by earwax is prevention. You might have spent many years using a cotton swab or another tool to get rid of earwax, but it’s time to stop that practice. Cotton swabs force the wax into your ear canal, causing a blockage and hearing loss.
Try cleaning your ears by putting in drops of hydrogen peroxide or purchasing over-the-counter drops. Allow the drops to sit there for a little while, then tilt 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 specialist. They have specific tools to make the job easier.
Prescription or over-the-counter medicines 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 various medications like diuretics can cause issues with hearing. If this is a problem for you, call your doctor right away and inquire whether you should continue taking your medications.
Be certain to have any decline in your hearing promptly examined.
Get in touch with a hearing care professional if you are noticing hearing loss this season.