As the crisp air and bright colors of autumn set in, so do the sounds that make this season special, kids laughing as they trick-or-treat, the gratifying crunch of leaves underfoot, and the crackling of a warm fire. Now imagine how much less pleasant your fall experience will be if those sounds begin to fade away.
Hearing problems can put a damper on your autumn experiences, but the good news is, many hearing issues can be avoided or treated with simple precautions. Make sure you don’t miss fall’s wonderful soundscape, and be proactive about protecting your hearing.
Protect your hearing from loud sounds
Loud noises are one of the most common causes of both temporary and permanent hearing loss. Exposure to sounds above 85 decibels (dB) can damage the sensitive structures of your inner ear, leading to hearing impairment.
What are common sources of harmful noise?
- Sirens: 120 dB
- Heavy traffic: 85 dB
- Outdoor concerts and events: Often 90-140 dB
Periodically attending a loud event can cause hearing loss that is typically temporary and will improve over a day or two. Recurring exposure to loud noises, like attending concerts regularly, or listening to loud audio on headphones every day, can cause more permanent hearing loss.
Guidelines for safeguarding your hearing in autumn
- Avoid sitting near loudspeakers: While getting right up close to the action may be enticing, the volume level right beside the loudspeakers is dangerously loud and can certainly damage your hearing.
- Wear earplugs at events: Use earplugs at Halloween parties or outdoor concerts to give your ears some level of protection while still allowing you to enjoy yourself.
- Turn down your headphones: In order to prevent damage, listen at a lower volume level and limit headphone usage.
Keeping your ears healthy when it’s cold out
As temperatures drop, don’t forget to safeguard your ears from the cold. Cold weather can leave your ears vulnerable 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.
The danger of ear infections
Cold air can cause discomfort, temporary hearing loss, and pain because it can cause fluid buildup and inflammation of the middle ear. Neglected ear infections can trigger more serious complications, impacting both your hearing and total health.
Preventive measures for cold weather
- Wear ear protection: Keep your ears warm by completely covering them with a hat, earmuffs, or a headband.
- 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.
Safe ear cleaning tips
Earwax, while frequently thought of as a nuisance, captures debris, dust, and insects, playing an important role in your overall ear health. However, too much earwax can block your ear canal and result in significant problems.
Many people 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 options:
- 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 tilt your head to allow it to drain.
- Consult a professional: If you’re uncertain about cleaning your ears or suspect you have a wax blockage, visit us for a consultation. We can prevent further problems by using specialized tools to safely clear out the earwax.
Hearing loss induced by 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 impair your hearing.
Let your doctor know if you notice any hearing changes after you start using a new medication. They can identify whether your hearing loss is related to the medication and advise you on the best course of action.
Take action at the first indication of hearing loss
Fall is filled with unique sounds you don’t want to miss. Schedule an appointment for a consultation if you detect any changes to your hearing.