As the crisp air and vibrant colors of autumn roll in, so do the sounds that make this season special, kids laughing as they trick-or-treat, the satisfying crunch of leaves underfoot, and the crackling of a warm fire. Now imagine those sounds fading away or becoming muffled, decreasing your enjoyment of these cherished moments.
Luckily, your autumn experience doesn’t need to be jeopardized because many of the causes of hearing loss can be prevented by taking some simple protective steps. By taking proactive steps to safeguard your hearing, you can ensure you don’t miss a beat of this fall’s magic.
Protect your ears from noise
The most common cause of both permanent and temporary hearing loss is exposure to loud sounds. Hearing impairment can start to happen when you’re exposed to sounds above 85 decibels (dB) leading to damage to the delicate structures of the inner ear.
What are common sources of damaging noise?
- Sirens: 120 dB
- Outdoor concerts and events: Often 90-140 dB
- Heavy traffic: 85 dB
Periodically attending a loud event can cause 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.
Guidelines for protecting your ears in autumn
- Turn down your headphones: Reduce headphone usage and decrease the volume to prevent damage over time.
- Avoid sitting near loudspeakers: While it’s tempting to get close to the action, sitting right next to the speakers at an event can subject you to dangerously loud noise levels.
- Wear earplugs at events: If you attend outdoor concerts or Halloween get-togethers, bring earplugs to decrease the volume without muting the experience.
Keeping your ears healthy when it’s cold out
As temperatures drop, don’t forget to safeguard your ears from the chill. Cold weather can have a major impact on your hearing, leaving you susceptible to ear infections. Adults are just as vulnerable to ear infections as children, particularly when exposed to cold and windy conditions.
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. Untreated ear infections can trigger more serious complications, impacting both your hearing and total health.
Safeguarding your ears when it’s cold
- Pay attention to symptoms: Get evaluated and treated by a healthcare provider immediately if you experience sudden hearing loss, have pain in your ear, or have any fluid draining from your ear.
- Wear ear protection: Invest in earmuffs, headbands, or hats that completely cover your ears to keep them warm.
Guidelines for safe ear cleaning
While earwax is usually viewed as a nuisance, it plays a critical role in keeping your ears healthy by trapping dust, debris, and insects. However, too much earwax can block your ear canal and lead to considerable issues.
You should never clean your ears with cotton swabs as they can jam earwax further into the ear canal and potentially cause ear damage. Better cleaning solutions include:
- 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 clear out the wax with specialized tools and prevent further problems.
- Hydrogen peroxide drops: Utilize a few drops of hydrogen peroxide or an over-the-counter earwax solution to soften and clear away excess wax. After the drops have been in your ear for a few minutes, tip your head to allow for drainage.
Medication-induced hearing issues
Hearing problems are one of the unexpected side effects of certain medications. Common medications including certain antibiotics, diuretics, and even large doses of aspirin can impede 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 course of action.
As soon as you detect signs of hearing loss, take action
Fall is filled with memorable sounds you don’t want to miss. If you notice any changes in your hearing, don’t hesitate to make an appointment with us for a comprehensive evaluation.