Autumn brings in its own compelling sounds you don’t want to miss, including the crackling of a warm fire, leaves crunching beneath your feet, and kids laughing and playing. Now imagine those sounds fading away or becoming muffled, decreasing your enjoyment of these precious moments.
Hearing issues can put a damper on your autumn experiences, but fortunately, many hearing problems can be avoided or managed with simple precautions. Make sure you don’t miss fall’s amazing soundscape, and be proactive about protecting your hearing.
Protect your hearing from loud noises
Loud noises are one of the most prevalent causes of both temporary and permanent hearing impairment. Exposure to sounds above 85 decibels (dB) can compromise the sensitive structures of your inner ear, leading to hearing impairment.
Harmful noise – some prevalent sources
- Sirens: 120 dB
- Heavy traffic: 85 dB
- Outdoor concerts and events: Often 90-140 dB
One-time loud events can result in temporary hearing loss, and while prompt medical care can help, it’s not always possible to counter the damage. Recurring exposure to loud noises, like going to concerts regularly, or listening to loud audio on headphones every day, can cause more permanent hearing loss.
Autumn ear protection tips
- Avoid sitting beside loudspeakers: While it’s tempting to get close to the action, sitting right by the speakers at an event can expose you to hazardously high noise levels.
- Wear earplugs at events: Utilize 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 usage and decrease the volume to prevent damage over time.
Cold weather and ear health
Remember to protect your ears from the cold as temperatures fall. Cold weather can leave your ears susceptible to infections, which in turn can impact your hearing. Adults are just as vulnerable to ear infections as children, especially 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 swelling of the middle ear. Neglected ear infections can trigger more serious complications, impacting both your hearing and overall health.
Safeguarding 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: Get assessed 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.
Guidelines for safe ear cleaning
Earwax, while often regarded as a nuisance, captures 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 considerable issues.
Many people use cotton swabs to clean their ears, but this common practice can actually pack the wax further into your ear canal, causing blockages and even harming the ear. Better cleaning solutions include:
- Consult a professional: Come in to see us if you suspect you may have a wax blockage or if you’re uncertain how to best clean your ears. We can safely clear out the wax with specialized tools and prevent further issues.
- Hydrogen peroxide drops: Soften the earwax by using over-the-counter earwax solutions or a few drops of hydrogen peroxide. After the drops have been in your ear for a few minutes, tip your head to allow for drainage.
Medication-related hearing problems
Some medications can have unexpected side effects, including hearing problems. Common medications including certain antibiotics, diuretics, and even large doses of aspirin can impede your hearing.
Let your doctor know if you notice any hearing changes after you begin taking a new medication. They can identify whether your hearing loss is due to the medication and advise you on the best course of action.
As soon as you notice indications of hearing loss, take action
Fall is filled with memorable sounds you don’t want to miss. Make an appointment for a consultation if you detect any changes to your hearing.