As the cool air and vibrant colors of autumn set in, so do the sounds that make this season unique, children laughing as they trick-or-treat, the gratifying crunch of leaves underfoot, and the crackling of a warm fire. Now imagine those sounds fading away or becoming muddled, reducing your enjoyment of these cherished moments.
Luckily, your autumn experience doesn’t need to be jeopardized because many of the causes of hearing loss can be avoided by taking some basic protective steps. By taking proactive steps to safeguard your hearing, you can ensure you don’t miss the sound of this fall’s magic.
Protect your ears from noise
Loud noises are one of the most common causes of both temporary and permanent hearing loss. Exposure to sounds above 85 decibels (dB) can damage the sensitive structures of your inner ear, resulting in hearing loss.
What are common sources of harmful noise?
- Heavy traffic: 85 dB
- Outdoor concerts and events: Often 90-140 dB
- Sirens: 120 dB
One-time loud events can cause temporary hearing loss, and while prompt 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 irreversible hearing loss.
Tips for protecting your hearing in autumn
- Use earplugs at events: Utilize earplugs at Halloween events or outdoor concerts to give your ears some degree of protection while still allowing you to enjoy yourself.
- Avoid sitting beside loudspeakers: While getting right up close to the action may be enticing, the noise level right beside the loudspeakers is harmfully loud and can certainly damage your hearing.
- Turn down your headphones: In order to counter damage, listen at a lower volume level and reduce headphone usage.
Keeping your ears healthy when it’s cold out
As temperatures go down, remember to safeguard your ears from the chill. Cold weather can have a major impact on your hearing, leaving you vulnerable to ear infections. Ear infections are more prevalent when it’s cold out and both adults and children are vulnerable.
Why ear infections are dangerous
Cold air can cause swelling and fluid buildup in the middle ear, causing discomfort, pain, and temporary hearing loss. Untreated ear infections can cause more serious complications, affecting both your hearing and total health.
Protecting your ears when it’s cold
- Wear ear protection: Invest in earmuffs, headbands, or hats that completely cover your ears to keep them warm.
- Pay attention to symptoms: Get evaluated and treated by a healthcare provider right away if you experience sudden hearing loss, have pain in your ear, or have any fluid draining from your ear.
Safe ear cleaning tips
Earwax, while often regarded as a nuisance, traps debris, dust, and insects, playing an important role in your overall ear health. However, too much earwax can become troublesome, particularly if it blocks your hearing.
Many individuals use cotton swabs to clean their ears, but this common practice can actually push the wax further into your ear canal, creating blockages and even damaging the ear. Here are some better cleaning suggestions:
- Hydrogen peroxide drops: Loosen the earwax by using over-the-counter earwax solutions or a few drops of hydrogen peroxide. After the drops have been in your ear for several minutes, tilt your head to allow for drainage.
- Consult a professional: If you’re unsure about cleaning your ears or suspect you have a wax blockage, come see us for a consultation. We can safely remove the wax with specialized tools and prevent further problems.
Hearing loss related to medication
Hearing problems are one of the unforeseen side effects of some medications. Common medications such as certain antibiotics, diuretics, and even large doses of aspirin can impair your hearing.
If you observe changes in your hearing after beginning a new medication, it’s essential to contact your doctor. They can identify whether your hearing loss is connected to the medication and advise you on the best plan of action.
As soon as you experience indications of hearing loss, take action
Seasonal activities in autumn are full of memorable sounds, and the ability to hear them clearly is something you don’t want to lose. Make an appointment for a consultation if you notice any changes to your hearing.