Isn’t pizza cool? As long as it meets a few standard criteria (crust, sauce, cheese, etc.) whatever the toppings, it’s still pizza. That’s also like hearing loss. Symptoms and presentations are due to many different issues – loud noises, genetics, age, ear blockages – but as long as you have trouble detecting sounds, it’s still hearing loss.
Normally, when you first notice hearing loss (regardless of the type), the first thing you should do is attempt to limit the damage. There are, after all, some basic measures you can take to protect your ears and limit further hearing loss.
Tip 1: Clean your Ears
Remember when your parents used to always ask “did you wash behind your ears”? But with regards to the health of your hearing, it’s the inner ear, not behind the ears, that we’re interested in.
Keeping your ears clear of wax accumulation can help your hearing in numerous different ways:
- Unkempt ears boost your risk of developing an ear infection, which causes swelling that, when significant enough, impedes your ability to hear. Your functional hearing will usually return when then the infection goes away.
- If you use hearing aids, earwax will also impede their operation. This might make it seem like your hearing is getting worse.
- Sound waves will have a harder time reaching your inner ear if you have substantial buildup. Because of this, your ability to hear becomes weakened.
- After a while, neglected hearing loss affects your brain and your ability to interpret sounds.
You should never attempt to use a cotton swab to dig out earwax. In most cases, a cotton swab will make things even worse or cause added damage. You can buy earwax removal drops over-the-counter at your local pharmacy which work better and are safer than swabs.
Tip 2: Avoid loud noises that could lead to hearing loss
This one is so intuitive it almost doesn’t need to be on this list. The challenge is that most people are hard-pressed to define what a “loud noise” really is. it isn’t just blaring speakers or loud rock concerts that damage your ears, highway driving can be noisy enough to harm your ears over a long period of time. Your ears can also be damaged by things like your lawn mower engine. And when you’re out celebrating the 4th of July, be cautious to protect your hearing!
Here are a few practical ways to avoid noise damage:
- When you can’t avoid being in a loud environment, wear hearing protection. If you want to attend a loud rock concert or if you work in a loud factory that’s okay but remember your ear protection. Modern earmuffs and earplugs offer ample protection.
- Using an app on your phone to alert you when decibel levels reach harmful levels.
- Refrain from cranking up the volume on your headphones when you’re streaming videos or listening to music. When you’re listening at unsafe levels, most phones have built-in alerts.
So if you go to a noisy event and your hearing seems fine after, that doesn’t mean it is, because hearing loss is often a slow progression. Only a hearing specialist can give your ears a clean bill of health.
Tip 3: If you have any hearing loss, get it treated
Hearing loss generally accumulates over time. So, the earlier you catch the damage, the better you’ll be able to prevent further damage. That’s why treatment is incredibly essential when it comes to controlling hearing loss. Your hearing will be in the best possible condition when you observe the treatment plan we will provide for you.
Treatment works like this:
- Mental strain, social withdrawal, and other hearing loss-related health problems can be prevented by hearing aids.
- Some, but not all damage can be prevented by hearing aids. With a hearing aid, you’re unlikely to turn the tv up to dangerous volumes. Because hearing aids prevent this damage, they can also prevent further deterioration of your hearing.
- We will provide personalized instructions and guidance to help you avoid further damage to your hearing.
In the long run you will be benefited by wearing hearing aids
Treatment is one of the main ways to prevent hearing loss despite the fact that there’s no cure. Treating your hearing loss appropriately will prevent further damage while preserving your current level of hearing.
In the years to come you will be giving yourself the best opportunity for healthy hearing if you get hearing loss treatment from us, use hearing protection, and practice good hygiene!