Preventing Hearing Loss
Some types of hearing loss can not be prevented. For instance, a lot of people lose their hearing as they age. Nevertheless, the most typical contributor to hearing loss is noise. By staying away from places and circumstances where you’re likely to be exposed to extremely loud sounds, you can help prevent noise-induced hearing loss. If you can’t avoid them, safeguard your hearing by doing the following:
- When attending noisy events, using loud machinery, or riding motorbikes or snowmobiles, use hearing protection (earplugs or earmuffs).
- Turn down the volume. Keep the volume on your headphones or earbuds low enough to hear conversations around you when listening to music. Not exceeding 80% of volume for longer than 90 minutes each day is another wise tip.
- Avoid putting things into your ear canal, including cotton swabs or hair pins. These objects can get stuck in the ear or rupture the eardrum
- Exercise regularly to help prevent health issues that cause hearing problems such as high blood pressure or diabetes
- Avoid smoking, as it can impair circulation and your hearing
- Manage any chronic illnesses to prevent complications
It is important that you immediately consult your doctor if you think you are experiencing hearing loss. The earlier you get treatment the better your chance of recovery.