As the crisp air and vibrant colors of autumn set in, so do the sounds that make this season unique, children 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 issues can put a damper on your autumn experiences, but the good news is, many hearing problems can be avoided or managed with simple precautions. By taking proactive steps to safeguard your hearing, you can ensure you don’t miss a beat of this fall’s magic.
Safeguard your hearing from loud sounds
Loud noises are one of the most common causes of both temporary and permanent hearing impairment. Exposure to sounds above 85 decibels (dB) can damage the sensitive structures of your inner ear, leading to hearing loss.
Harmful noise – some common sources
- Sirens: 120 dB
- Heavy traffic: 85 dB
- Outdoor concerts and events: Often 90-140 dB
One-time loud events can trigger temporary hearing loss, and while immediate medical care can help, it’s not always possible to counter the damage. More sustained exposure to high decibel levels, including regularly attending concerts or using loud headphones on a daily basis, can also lead to permanent problems.
Tips for protecting your hearing in autumn
- Turn down your headphones: In order to avoid damage, listen at a lower volume level and reduce headphone usage.
- Use earplugs at events: If you attend outdoor concerts or Halloween gatherings, bring earplugs to lower the volume without muting the experience.
- Avoid sitting beside loudspeakers: While getting right up close to the action may be enticing, the noise level right beside the loudspeakers is harmfully loud and can definitely damage your hearing.
Cold weather and ear health
Remember to protect your ears from the cold as temperatures drop. Cold weather can have a huge impact on your hearing, leaving you vulnerable to ear infections. Ear infections are more common when it’s cold out and both adults and children are susceptible.
The danger of ear infections
Cold air can trigger swelling and fluid buildup in the middle ear, resulting in discomfort, pain, and temporary hearing loss. Neglected ear infections can cause more serious complications, affecting both your hearing and total health.
Protecting 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: Keep your ears warm by completely covering them with a hat, earmuffs, or a headband.
Safe ear cleaning guidelines
While earwax is frequently viewed as a nuisance, it plays a critical role in keeping your ears healthy by capturing dust, debris, and insects. However, too much earwax can block your ear canal and lead to considerable 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. Here are some better cleaning options:
- Hydrogen peroxide drops: Utilize a few drops of hydrogen peroxide or an over-the-counter earwax solution to soften and clear out excess wax. After the drops have been in your ear for several minutes, tilt your head to allow for drainage.
- Consult a professional: If you’re uncertain about cleaning your ears or think you have a wax blockage, come see us for a consultation. We can safely remove the wax with specialized tools and prevent further issues.
Medication-induced hearing problems
Some medications can have unforeseen side effects, including hearing problems. Your hearing can be impaired by certain common medications, including diuretics, antibiotics, and large doses of aspirin.
If you observe changes in your hearing after starting a new medication, it’s important to contact your doctor. They can determine whether your hearing loss is due to the medication and advise you on the best course of action.
Take action at the first sign of hearing loss
Seasonal activities in autumn are full of wonderful sounds, and the ability to hear them clearly is something you don’t want to lose. Make an appointment for a consultation if you detect any changes to your hearing.