Autumn brings in its own engaging sounds you won’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 muffled, diminishing your enjoyment of these precious moments.
Fortunately, your autumn experience doesn’t need to be jeopardized because many of the causes of hearing loss can be prevented by taking some basic protective measures. By taking proactive steps to safeguard your hearing, you can ensure you don’t miss the sound of this fall’s magic.
Safeguard your hearing from loud sounds
The most prevalent cause of both permanent and temporary hearing loss is exposure to loud sounds. Hearing loss can start to happen when you’re exposed to noises above 85 decibels (dB) causing damage to the fragile structures of the inner ear.
What are typical sources of damaging noise?
- Outdoor concerts and events: Often 90-140 dB
- Sirens: 120 dB
- Heavy traffic: 85 dB
Occasionally attending a loud event can result in hearing loss that is usually temporary and will clear up over a day or two. More prolonged exposure to high decibel levels, such as regularly attending concerts or using loud headphones on a daily basis, can also lead to permanent issues.
Autumn hearing protection guidelines
- Avoid sitting beside loudspeakers: While getting right up close to the action may be tempting, the noise level right beside the loudspeakers is harmfully loud and can absolutely damage your hearing.
- Turn down your headphones: Limit headphone usage and decrease the volume to prevent damage over time.
- Wear earplugs at events: Utilize earplugs at Halloween gatherings or outdoor concerts to give your ears some degree of protection while still allowing you to enjoy yourself.
Cold weather and ear health
Remember to safeguard your ears from the cold as temperatures fall. Cold weather can have a huge impact on your hearing, leaving you vulnerable to ear infections. Adults are just as susceptible to ear infections as children, especially when exposed to cold and windy conditions.
Why ear infections are dangerous
Cold air can cause swelling and fluid accumulation in the middle ear, resulting in discomfort, pain, and temporary hearing loss. Untreated ear infections can trigger more serious complications, impacting both your hearing and overall health.
Protective measures for cold weather
- Wear ear protection: Keep your ears warm by entirely covering them with a hat, earmuffs, or a headband.
- Pay attention to symptoms: If you feel pain, fluid draining from the ear, or experience sudden hearing loss, consult a healthcare provider immediately for evaluation and treatment.
Tips for safe ear cleaning
Earwax, while often regarded as a nuisance, traps debris, dust, and insects, playing a vital role in your total ear health. However, excessive earwax can become problematic, especially if it blocks your hearing.
You should never clean your ears with cotton swabs as they can push earwax further into the ear canal and potentially cause ear damage. Here are some better cleaning solutions:
- Hydrogen peroxide drops: Loosen the earwax by using over-the-counter earwax drops 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: Come in to see us if you suspect you may have a wax blockage or if you’re not sure how to best clean your ears. We can prevent further problems by using specialized tools to safely remove the earwax.
Hearing loss related to medication
Some medications can have unforeseen side effects, including hearing issues. Common medications such as certain antibiotics, diuretics, and even large doses of aspirin can impede your hearing.
Let your doctor know if you notice any hearing changes after you begin taking a new medication. Whether your hearing loss is caused by a new medication, and if so, what to do about it, are things they will help you with.
As soon as you notice signs of hearing loss, take action
Fall is filled with unique sounds you don’t want to miss. If you detect any changes in your hearing, don’t hesitate to schedule an appointment with us for a comprehensive assessment.
