Autumn brings in its own compelling sounds you won’t want to miss, including the crackling of a warm fire, leaves crunching under your feet, and children laughing and playing. Now imagine how much less enjoyable your fall experience will be if those sounds start to fade away.
Hearing problems can put a damper on your autumn experiences, but fortunately, many hearing issues can be avoided or treated with simple safeguards. By taking hands-on steps to protect your hearing, you can ensure you don’t miss a beat of this fall’s magic.
Protect your ears from noise
The most common cause of both permanent and temporary hearing loss is exposure to loud noises. Exposure to sounds over 85 decibels (dB) can compromise the sensitive structures of your inner ear, leading to hearing loss.
Harmful noise – some prevalent sources
- Heavy traffic: 85 dB
- Sirens: 120 dB
- Outdoor concerts and events: Often 90-140 dB
One-time loud events can result in temporary hearing loss, and while immediate medical care can help, it isn’t always possible to reverse the damage. Repeated exposure to loud noises, like attending concerts regularly, or listening to loud audio on headphones every day, can cause more irreversible hearing loss.
Guidelines for safeguarding your ears in autumn
- Avoid sitting beside loudspeakers: While it’s tempting to get close to the action, sitting right by the speakers at an event can subject you to dangerously high noise levels.
- Use earplugs at events: Make use of earplugs at Halloween parties or outdoor concerts to give your ears some degree of protection while still allowing you to enjoy yourself.
- Turn down your headphones: In order to avoid damage, listen at a lower volume level and reduce headphone usage.
Keeping your ears healthy when it’s cold out
Remember to protect your ears from the cold as temperatures fall. Cold weather can have a major 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.
The danger of ear infections
Cold air can lead to discomfort, temporary hearing loss, and pain because it can cause fluid accumulation and swelling of the middle ear. If an ear infection goes untreated, it can affect both your hearing health and your general health, leading to more serious health issues.
Safeguarding 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
Earwax, while frequently regarded as a nuisance, traps debris, dust, and insects, playing an important role in your overall ear health. However, excessive earwax can become troublesome, especially if it blocks your hearing.
You should never clean your ears with cotton swabs as they can push earwax further into the ear canal and potentially cause ear damage. Here are some better cleaning options:
- Hydrogen peroxide drops: Loosen the earwax by utilizing over-the-counter earwax drops 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: Come in to see us if you suspect you might have a wax blockage or if you’re unsure how to best clean your ears. We can safely remove the wax with specialized tools and prevent further problems.
Medication-related hearing problems
Some medications can have unforeseen side effects, including hearing issues. Common medications including certain antibiotics, diuretics, and even large doses of aspirin can impair your hearing.
If you notice changes in your hearing after starting a new medication, it’s essential to contact your physician. They can determine whether your hearing loss is related to the medication and advise you on the best plan 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.