Autumn brings in its own engaging sounds you don’t want to miss, including the crackling of a warm fire, leaves crunching under 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 avoided by taking some simple protective measures. Make sure you don’t miss fall’s wonderful soundscape, and be proactive about safeguarding your hearing.
Protect your hearing from loud noises
The most common cause of both permanent and temporary hearing loss is exposure to loud sounds. Hearing impairment can start to occur when you’re exposed to noises above 85 decibels (dB) resulting in damage to the fragile structures of the inner ear.
Harmful noise – some common sources
- Sirens: 120 dB
- Heavy traffic: 85 dB
- Outdoor concerts and events: Often 90-140 dB
One-time loud events can trigger temporary hearing loss, and while prompt medical care can help, it’s not always possible to reverse the damage. More prolonged exposure to high decibel levels, including regularly attending concerts or using loud headphones on a daily basis, can also result in permanent problems.
Autumn ear protection guidelines
- Wear earplugs at events: Utilize earplugs at Halloween gatherings or outdoor concerts to give your ears some level of protection while still allowing you to have a good time.
- Turn down your headphones: Reduce headphone usage and lower the volume to prevent damage over time.
- Avoid sitting beside loudspeakers: While getting right up close to the action may be enticing, the volume level right beside the loudspeakers is harmfully loud and can definitely damage your hearing.
Cold weather and ear health
Remember to protect your ears from the cold as temperatures fall. Cold weather can have a major impact on your hearing, leaving you vulnerable to ear infections. Ear infections are more common when it’s cold out and both adults and children are vulnerable.
Why ear infections are dangerous
Cold air can lead to discomfort, temporary hearing loss, and pain because it can cause fluid buildup 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.
Preventive measures for cold weather
- Wear ear protection: Invest in earmuffs, headbands, or hats that fully cover your ears to keep them warm.
- Pay attention to symptoms: If you feel pain, fluid draining from the ear, or experience sudden hearing loss, talk to a healthcare provider immediately for evaluation and treatment.
Tips for safe ear cleaning
Earwax, while often thought of as a nuisance, captures debris, dust, and insects, playing an important role in your overall ear health. However, too much earwax can become troublesome, particularly if it blocks your hearing.
Many individuals use cotton swabs to clean their ears, but this common habit can actually push the wax further into your ear canal, creating blockages and even harming the ear. Here are some better cleaning suggestions:
- Hydrogen peroxide drops: Utilize a few drops of hydrogen peroxide or an over-the-counter earwax solution to soften and clear away excess wax. Let the solution sit for a few minutes, then tilt your head to allow it to drain.
- Consult a professional: If you’re not sure about cleaning your ears or think you have a wax blockage, come see us for a consultation. We can safely remove the wax with specialized tools and prevent further problems.
Medication-induced hearing issues
Hearing issues are one of the unforeseen side effects of certain medications. Common medications such as certain antibiotics, diuretics, and even large dosages of aspirin can impair your hearing.
If you notice changes in your hearing after starting a new medication, it’s essential to contact your doctor. They can identify whether your hearing loss is related to the medication and advise you on the best plan of action.
Take action at the first sign of hearing loss
Seasonal activities in autumn are full of memorable sounds, and the ability to hear them clearly is something you don’t want to lose. Schedule an appointment for a consultation if you notice any changes to your hearing.