The fall season is a standout time in the yearly calendar. Picture yourself in a relaxing setting, surrounded by the warmth and joy of the season – the sound of children’s laughs on Halloween, the rustle of leaves under your feet on a brisk autumn day, the relaxing 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.
Failing to experience these sounds can substantially lessen the cheery atmosphere. Luckily, if you have issues with your hearing, it may be short-term and caused by things that are easily avoided or reparable. Take these actions to protect your hearing, and enjoy autumn to its fullest.
Tips for preserving your hearing
There is unequivocal evidence revealing that exposure to loud noises can result in temporary hearing loss and that long-term exposure can turn it into an irreversible problem. Loud noises damage the sensitive parts of your inner ear, and you should do what you can to minimize the issue.
A sudden, extremely loud noise such as an explosion can trigger temporary hearing loss, and though prompt medical intervention may reduce the impact, it is tough to prevent. Lengthier exposure to sounds at 85 decibels or higher, however, can also cause hearing loss and is usually easier to avoid.
The sound level of heavy traffic is about 85 decibels, while sirens are a much louder 120 decibels. Firecrackers and fireworks can also harm your hearing. Reconsider putting in earbuds and cranking up the music, as the sound is even closer to your inner ear. (Regrettably, there are no exemptions for your favorite song when it comes to earbuds or headphones.)
Fall’s celebrations typically feature outdoor parties and live music performances. The weather is still beautiful, and you may find yourself in a park where you can spark up a grill and lay down a blanket. Exercise prudence when sitting directly in front of the speakers as you could be dealing with a powerful 140 decibels of sound. Concerts frequently reach hazardous decibel levels even at a significant distance.
What’s the best course of action to take?
Protecting your hearing by wearing earplugs is one of the most beneficial things you can do. You will still be able to hear the music and enjoy the fireworks, just with reduced possible harm to your hearing. Resist the urge to nudge closer to the speakers as the evening goes on, no matter how enticing it might be.
Keep your ears warm in cool temperatures
It is essential to protect your ears from infections as the temperature decreases and the wind becomes stronger. Make sure that you and your family have on ear protection like ear muffs or a hat. You might think of your children and grandchildren when you think of ear infections, but adults get them too. Fluid build-up in the middle ear is a result of these infections, which also result in irritation. Discharge from the ear, discomfort, and impaired hearing are possible symptoms you may encounter.
If you have an ear infection, you should see a physician as soon as possible. Not seeking treatment for this issue, which could be a warning of a hidden medical condition, poses dangers to your well-being.
Carefully and successfully eliminate earwax
That annoying earwax might get on your nerves, but it serves the essential purpose of capturing dirt, bugs, and debris before they get into your inner ear. However, an overabundance of earwax can become an issue, particularly if it obstructs your ability to hear properly.
The first step in avoiding hearing issues caused by earwax is prevention. You may have spent years reaching for a cotton swab or some other item to clear wax, but please break that habit. Cotton swabs force the wax into your ear canal, causing a blockage and hearing loss.
Try cleaning your ears by putting in drops of hydrogen peroxide or purchasing over-the-counter drops. Allow the drops to sit for a short while, then tilt your head to help with drainage. Consider getting in touch with an audiologist or hearing specialist if ear cleaning seems daunting or if you suspect a severe blockage. Special tools are available to them that will streamline the job.
Prescription or over-the-counter medicines might be to blame
A sudden decline in your hearing abilities after starting a new medication might be a side effect of the medication itself. Certain antibiotics, diuretics, large doses of aspirin, and other drugs can lead to hearing problems. If you are concerned about this matter, contact your physician right away to find out whether you should keep taking your medication.
Be sure to have any decline in your hearing immediately examined.
If you’re noticing a decrease in your hearing this season, think about speaking with an audiologist or hearing specialist for assistance.