Autumn brings in its own engaging sounds you don’t want to miss, including the crackling of a warm fire, leaves crunching beneath your feet, and kids laughing and playing. Now imagine those sounds fading away or becoming muddled, decreasing your enjoyment of these cherished moments.
Fortunately, your autumn experience doesn’t need to be jeopardized because many of the causes of hearing loss can be avoided by taking some simple protective measures. Make sure you don’t miss fall’s wonderful soundscape, and be assertive about protecting your hearing.
Protect your ears from noise
The most common cause of both permanent and temporary hearing loss is exposure to loud sounds. Exposure to sounds above 85 decibels (dB) can compromise the sensitive structures of your inner ear, resulting in hearing loss.
What are typical sources of damaging noise?
- Sirens: 120 dB
- Heavy traffic: 85 dB
- Outdoor concerts and events: Often 90-140 dB
Periodically attending a loud event can result in hearing loss that is usually temporary and will clear up over a day or two. 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.
Guidelines for safeguarding your ears in autumn
- Avoid sitting beside loudspeakers: While getting right up next to the action may be enticing, the volume level right beside the loudspeakers is dangerously loud and can definitely damage your hearing.
- Wear earplugs at events: Make use of earplugs at Halloween events or outdoor concerts to give your ears some degree of protection while still allowing you to enjoy yourself.
- Turn down your headphones: In order to avoid damage, listen at a lower volume level and limit headphone usage.
Cold weather and ear health
As temperatures fall, remember to protect your ears from the cold. Cold weather can leave your ears susceptible to infections, which in turn can affect your hearing. Ear infections are more common when it’s cold out and both adults and children are susceptible.
The danger of ear infections
Cold air can lead to discomfort, temporary hearing loss, and pain because it can cause fluid accumulation and inflammation of the middle ear. If an ear infection goes untreated, it can affect both your hearing health and your general health, leading to more serious health issues.
Protecting your ears when it’s cold
- Pay attention to symptoms: Get assessed and treated by a healthcare provider immediately if you experience sudden hearing loss, have pain in your ear, or have any fluid draining from your ear.
- Wear ear protection: Invest in earmuffs, headbands, or hats that fully cover your ears to keep them warm.
Tips for safe ear cleaning
While earwax is usually viewed as a nuisance, it plays a vital role in keeping your ears healthy by capturing dust, debris, and insects. However, too much earwax can block your ear canal and lead to substantial issues.
You should never clean your ears with cotton swabs as they can jam earwax further into the ear canal and potentially cause ear damage. Better cleaning methods include:
- Hydrogen peroxide drops: Soften the earwax by using over-the-counter earwax drops or a few drops of hydrogen peroxide. Let the solution sit for several minutes, then tip your head to allow it to drain.
- Consult a professional: If you’re uncertain about cleaning your ears or think you have a wax blockage, visit us for a consultation. We can safely clear out the wax with specialized tools and prevent further problems.
Medication-induced hearing issues
Some medications can have unforeseen side effects, including hearing issues. Common medications including certain antibiotics, diuretics, and even large doses of aspirin can impair your hearing.
If you notice changes in your hearing after beginning a new medication, it’s important to contact your doctor. They can determine whether your hearing loss is connected to the medication and advise you on the best course of action.
Take action at the first sign of hearing loss
Fall is filled with unique sounds you don’t want to miss. If you notice any changes in your hearing, don’t hesitate to make an appointment with us for a thorough assessment.