Autumn brings in its own engaging sounds you won’t want to miss, including the crackling of a warm fire, leaves crunching under your feet, and kids laughing and playing. Now imagine how much less pleasant your fall experience will be if those sounds start to fade away.
Hearing issues can put a damper on your autumn experiences, but fortunately, many hearing issues can be avoided or managed with simple safeguards. Make sure you don’t miss fall’s wonderful soundscape, and be proactive about safeguarding your hearing.
Safeguard your hearing from loud sounds
Loud noises are one of the most prevalent causes of both temporary and permanent hearing loss. Hearing loss can begin to happen when you’re exposed to sounds above 85 decibels (dB) resulting in damage to the sensitive structures of the inner ear.
What are typical sources of harmful noise?
- Heavy traffic: 85 dB
- Outdoor concerts and events: Often 90-140 dB
- Sirens: 120 dB
One-time loud events can cause temporary hearing loss, and while prompt medical care can help, it’s not always possible to counter the damage. More prolonged exposure to high decibel levels, such as regularly attending concerts or using loud headphones on a daily basis, can also lead to lasting problems.
Autumn ear protection guidelines
- Avoid sitting near loudspeakers: While it’s tempting to get close to the action, sitting right next to the speakers at an event can subject you to dangerously high noise levels.
- Wear 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 have a good time.
- Turn down your headphones: Limit headphone use and lower the volume to prevent damage over time.
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 prevalent when it’s cold out and both adults and children are vulnerable.
Why ear infections are dangerous
Cold air can cause 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 overall health.
Protecting your ears when it’s cold
- Wear ear protection: Invest in earmuffs, headbands, or hats that fully cover your ears to keep them warm.
- Pay attention to symptoms: If you feel pain, fluid draining from the ear, or experience sudden hearing loss, consult a healthcare provider immediately for evaluation and treatment.
Guidelines for safe ear cleaning
While earwax is usually 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 become problematic, especially if it blocks your hearing.
You should never clean your ears with cotton swabs as they can jam earwax further into the ear canal and potentially cause ear damage. Better cleaning methods include:
- Consult a professional: Come in to see us if you think you might have a wax blockage or if you’re not sure how to best clean your ears. We can prevent further issues by making use of specialized tools to safely clear out the earwax.
- Hydrogen peroxide drops: Utilize a few drops of hydrogen peroxide or an over-the-counter earwax solution to soften and clear away excess wax. Let the solution sit for a few minutes, then tilt your head to allow it to drain.
Hearing loss related to medication
Some medications can have unexpected 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 beginning a new medication, it’s essential to contact your physician. 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 sign of hearing loss
Seasonal activities in autumn are full of memorable sounds, and the ability to hear them clearly is something you don’t want to lose. If you notice any changes in your hearing, don’t hesitate to make an appointment with us for a comprehensive evaluation.
