As the cool air and vibrant colors of autumn roll in, so do the sounds that make this season unique, 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 muddled, decreasing 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 basic protective measures. Make sure you don’t miss fall’s wonderful soundscape, and be proactive about protecting your hearing.
Protect your hearing from loud noises
The most prevalent cause of both permanent and temporary hearing loss is exposure to loud sounds. Hearing impairment can start to occur when you’re exposed to sounds above 85 decibels (dB) leading to damage to the fragile structures of the inner ear.
Harmful noise – some prevalent sources
- Outdoor concerts and events: Often 90-140 dB
- Heavy traffic: 85 dB
- Sirens: 120 dB
Occasionally attending a loud event can result in hearing loss that is typically temporary and will clear up over a day or two. More sustained exposure to high decibel levels, such as regularly attending concerts or using loud headphones on a daily basis, can also result in lasting problems.
Tips for safeguarding your ears in autumn
- Use earplugs at events: Make use of earplugs at Halloween events or outdoor concerts to give your ears some degree of protection while still allowing you to have a good time.
- Turn down your headphones: Limit headphone use and decrease the volume to prevent damage over time.
- Avoid sitting near loudspeakers: While getting right up next to the action may be enticing, the noise level right beside the loudspeakers is harmfully loud and can definitely damage your hearing.
Keeping your ears healthy when it’s cold out
Remember to safeguard your ears from the cold as temperatures drop. Cold weather can have a huge impact on your hearing, leaving you susceptible to ear infections. Ear infections are more common when it’s cold out and both adults and children are susceptible.
Why ear infections are dangerous
Cold air can trigger swelling and fluid buildup in the middle ear, causing discomfort, pain, and temporary hearing loss. If an ear infection goes untreated, it can impact both your hearing health and your general health, leading to more serious health issues.
Protecting your ears when it’s cold
- 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, contact a healthcare provider immediately for assessment and treatment.
Safe ear cleaning tips
Earwax, while often thought of as a nuisance, traps debris, dust, and insects, playing a vital role in your total ear health. However, an overabundance of earwax can block your ear canal and result in significant issues.
Many individuals use cotton swabs to clean their ears, but this common habit can actually pack the wax further into your ear canal, causing blockages and even harming the ear. Better cleaning solutions include:
- Hydrogen peroxide drops: Soften the earwax by using over-the-counter earwax solutions or a few drops of hydrogen peroxide. Let the solution sit for a few minutes, then tip your head to allow it to drain.
- Consult a professional: If you’re unsure about cleaning your ears or suspect you have a wax blockage, visit us for a consultation. We can prevent further issues by using specialized tools to safely remove the earwax.
Hearing loss related to medication
Some medications can have unforeseen side effects, including hearing problems. Common medications such as certain antibiotics, diuretics, and even large dosages of aspirin can impede your hearing.
Let your doctor know if you experience any hearing changes after you begin using a new medication. They can identify whether your hearing loss is connected to the medication and advise you on the best course of action.
Take action at the first indication of hearing loss
Seasonal experiences in autumn are full of wonderful sounds, and the ability to hear them clearly is something you don’t want to lose. If you notice any changes in your hearing, don’t hesitate to make an appointment with us for a thorough evaluation.