Isn’t pizza cool? You can switch up the toppings, sauces, even the cheeses concerned, but as long as it meets a few basic criteria, it’s still a pizza. That’s similar to hearing loss. Symptoms and presentations are due to many different issues – loud noises, genetics, age, ear obstructions – but as long as you have trouble hearing sounds, it’s still hearing loss.
Normally, when you first notice hearing loss (no matter the type), the first thing you should do is attempt to limit the damage. There are, after all, some basic measures you can take to protect your ears and minimize further hearing loss.
Tip 1: Keep your ears clean
Remember when your parents used to always ask “did you clean behind your ears”? But with regards to the health of your hearing, it’s the inner ear, not behind the ears, that we’re worried about.
Your hearing can be helped in a number of ways by keeping your ears free of earwax:
- Your brain and your ability to decipher sounds can be affected over time by untreated hearing loss.
- Untidy ears boost your chances of getting an ear infection, which causes inflammation that, when severe enough, impedes your ability to hear. When your ear infection goes away, your normal hearing will usually come back.
- Sound waves will have a harder time reaching your inner ear if you have substantial buildup. Your hearing becomes compromised as a result.
- Earwax buildup also impedes the functioning of your hearing aid if you have one. If this happens you may think that your hearing is getting even worse.
You should not ever attempt to use a cotton swab to dig out earwax. Cotton swabs can push the earwax further up into the ear canal and can cause even more damage. You can buy earwax removal drops over-the-counter at your local drugstore which work better and are safer than swabs.
Tip 2: Loud noise that could result in hearing loss should be avoided
This one is so instinctive it almost doesn’t need to be on this list. But defining what comprises “loud sound” isn’t very easy for most individuals. it isn’t just blaring speakers or loud rock concerts that harm your ears, freeway driving can be loud enough to damage your ears over a long period of time. The motor on your lawnmower can be pretty straining on your ears also. And, be mindful to safeguard your hearing during those 4th of July fireworks!
Some practical ways to steer clear of damaging noises include:
- Using an app on your phone to alert you when decibel levels reach damaging thresholds.
- Refrain from turning up the volume on your headphones when you’re watching videos or listening to tunes. Most cellphones have built-in alerts when you’re approaching a dangerous threshold.
- Using ear protection when noisy environments are not avoidable. If you want to go to a loud rock concert or if you work in a noisy factory that’s fine but don’t forget your ear protection. You can get plenty of protection from contemporary earplugs and earmuffs.
The damage to your ears from loud noises will accumulate slowly. So, even if your hearing “seems” fine after a loud event, that doesn’t mean it is. Your hearing can only be properly assessed by a hearing specialist.
Tip 3: Treat any hearing loss you may have
Hearing loss typically accumulates over time. So, the sooner you catch the damage, the better you’ll be able to stop further damage. So when it comes to hearing loss, this is the reason why having it treated is so crucial. Effective treatments (on which you follow through) will put your hearing in the best possible condition.
Treatment works like this:
- We will help you avoid further damage by supplying you with customized advice and guidelines.
- Hearing aids can prevent some, but not all, damage. With a hearing aid, you’re not likely to crank up the tv to damaging volumes. Because hearing aids prevent this damage, they can also prevent further degeneration of your hearing.
- Hearing aids prevent the brain strain and social isolation that worsen hearing loss-related health issues.
In the long run you will be benefited by wearing hearing aids
While it’s true that hearing loss can’t be cured, in many circumstances, hearing loss treatment is one of the principal ways to prevent it. Treating your hearing loss correctly will prevent further damage while maintaining your current level of hearing.
When you use hearing protection, practice quality hygiene, and pursue hearing loss treatment with a hearing specialist, you’re taking the best measures to limit hearing loss while also giving yourself the best opportunity for healthy hearing in the years to come!