The fall season is a standout period in the annual calendar. Picture yourself in a relaxing setting, surrounded by the warmth and joy of the season – the sound of children’s giggles on Halloween, the rustle of leaves beneath your feet on a brisk fall day, the soothing crackle of a fire, and the love and laughter of family sitting around the table on Thanksgiving. Now picture a situation where you are unable to hear those sounds or they are dulled.
Failing to hear these sounds can considerably diminish 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 fixable. Follow these suggestions to protect your hearing and fully savor the autumn season.
How to protect your hearing
There is unequivocal evidence revealing that exposure to loud sounds can result in temporary hearing loss and that repeated exposure can turn it into a long-term problem. Excessive volume can damage the delicate parts of your inner ear, so it is important to take steps to limit the danger.
A sudden, extremely loud noise such as an explosion can result in temporary hearing impairment, and although 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.
Heavy traffic clocks in at 85 decibels, and sirens are measured at 120 decibels. In addition to firecrackers and fireworks, loud music through earbuds can also pose a threat to your hearing. Be cautious when boosting the volume, as the closeness of the sound to your eardrum can cause damage. Unfortunately, there are no special allowances for enjoying your preferred song with earbuds or headphones.
Among the joys of autumn are outdoor gatherings and concerts. The weather is still beautiful, and you may find yourself in a park where you can set up a grill and spread out a blanket. Exercise caution when sitting directly in front of the speakers because you could be dealing with a powerful 140 decibels of sound. Even further away, the decibel level at concerts is usually in the danger zone.
So what can you do?
The most ideal thing you can do for yourself is to wear earplugs. You will still be able to hear the music and enjoy the fireworks, just with reduced possible damage to your hearing. Avoid the impulse to nudge closer to the speakers as the evening goes on, no matter how enticing it may be.
Protect your ears from cold weather
It is essential to safeguard your ears from infections as the temperature drops and the wind becomes more powerful. Be certain you and your family are using ear muffs or a hat. You may think of your children and grandchildren when you think of ear infections, but adults get them as well. Fluid accumulation in the middle ear is a result of these infections, which also result in inflammation. You may experience fluid draining from your ear, soreness, and hearing loss.
Get immediate medical attention if you’re experiencing symptoms of an ear infection. It might be an indication of another medical problem, and lack of treatment is dangerous not just for your hearing but also for your overall health.
Gently and successfully eliminate earwax
Earwax, despite being annoying, plays a crucial part in catching dirt, bugs, and debris to prevent them from reaching your inner ear. If you have too much earwax, though, it can be a problem, especially if it obstructs your hearing.
The first action in avoiding hearing problems caused by earwax is prevention. You might have spent many years using a cotton swab or another tool to remove earwax, but it’s time to stop that method. Cotton swabs push the wax into your ear canal, causing a blockage and hearing loss.
Consider using ear cleaning solutions, such as hydrogen peroxide or store-bought ear drops, to gently cleanse your ears. Let the drops sit for a few minutes, and then tilt your head to let them drain. Think about consulting an audiologist or hearing specialist if ear cleaning seems daunting or if you suspect a severe blockage. Specialised tools are available to them that will streamline the task.
Prescription or over-the-counter medicines might be to blame
If you beging taking a new medicine and noticed that you suddenly have a more difficult time hearing, it might be the medication. Certain antibiotics, diuretics, large doses of aspirin, and other drugs can lead to hearing problems. If this is a problem for you, contact your doctor right away and ask whether you should continue taking your medications.
Remember, any changes in your hearing need to get assessed immediately.
If you’re noticing a decline in your hearing this season, consider consulting an audiologist or hearing specialist for assistance.