Autumn is one of the most enjoyable times of the year. Picture yourself in a cozy setting, enveloped by the warmth and joy of the season – the sound of children’s giggles on Halloween, the rustle of leaves beneath your feet on a brisk fall day, the soothing crackle of a fire, and the love and laughter of family gathered around the table on Thanksgiving. Now picture a situation where you are unable to hear those sounds or they are dulled.
Missing out on these sounds can take the enjoyment out of the season. The good thing is, many hearing issues are non permanent and can be managed by addressing underlying causes that are often easy to correct or prevent. Take these steps to safeguard your hearing, and enjoy autumn to its fullest.
How to protect your hearing
There is unequivocal evidence showing that exposure to loud noises can result in short-term hearing loss and that long-term exposure can turn it into a permanent problem. Excessive volume can harm the delicate parts of your inner ear, so it is essential to take steps to limit the danger.
A sudden, extremely loud noise such as an explosion can trigger short-term hearing impairment, and though prompt medical assistance might reduce the effect, it is tough to prevent. Longer exposure to sounds at 85 decibels or higher, though, can also cause hearing loss and is usually easier to avoid.
The sound level of heavy traffic measures 85 decibels, while sirens reach a far louder 120 decibels. Firecrackers and fireworks can also damage your hearing. Think twice about putting on earbuds and cranking up the music, as the sound is even closer to your inner ear. Regrettably, there are no special allowances for indulging in your preferred song with earbuds or headphones.
Among the highlights of autumn are outdoor gatherings and concerts. The weather is still beautiful, and you may find yourself in a park where you can set up a grill and spread out a blanket. Use caution when sitting directly beside the speakers as you could be exposed to a powerful 140 decibels of sound. Even further back, the decibel level at concerts is usually in the danger zone.
What’s the most effective course of action to take?
Safeguarding your hearing by using earplugs is one of the most beneficial things you can do. By taking precautions, you can minimize the danger of hearing damage while still being able to fully enjoy the music and fireworks display. As alluring as it is, try not to keep sneaking closer to those speakers as the night goes on.
Safeguard your ears from cold weather
It is imperative to protect your ears from infections as the temperature drops and the wind becomes stronger. Make certain that you and your family have on ear protection like ear muffs or a hat. You may think of your children and grandchildren when you think of ear infections, but adults get them too. These infections cause fluid to accumulate in your middle ear, and they lead to inflammation. You may experience fluid draining from your ear, pain, and hearing loss.
Get immediate medical attention if you’re experiencing symptoms of an ear infection. It might be a sign of another medical issue, and lack of treatment is hazardous not only for your hearing but also for your general health.
Safely clear out earwax
That pesky earwax might get on your nerves, but it performs the important purpose of trapping dirt, bugs, and debris before they get into your inner ear. If you have excessive earwax, though, it can be a problem, especially if it obstructs your hearing.
Prevention is key to avoiding hearing problems caused by earwax. You might have spent many years utilizing a cotton swab or another tool to remove earwax, but it’s time to stop that method. Cotton swabs force the wax into your ear canal, causing a blockage and hearing loss.
Think about utilizing ear cleaning solutions, such as hydrogen peroxide or store-bought ear drops, to carefully clean your ears. Allow the drops to sit for a short while, then tilt your head to help with drainage. Think about getting in touch with an audiologist or hearing specialist if ear cleaning seems daunting or if you suspect a severe blockage. Specialised tools are available to them that will simplify the job.
Prescription or over-the-counter medicines might be to blame
An abbrupt decline in your hearing abilities after beginning a new medication could be a side effect of the medication itself. Some antibiotics, diuretics, large doses of aspirin, and other drugs can lead to hearing problems. If this is an issue for you, contact your physician immediately and ask whether you should keep taking your medications.
Don’t forget, any changes in your hearing should get checked out immediately.
Get in touch with a hearing care professional if you are noticing hearing loss this season.