Isn’t pizza cool? As long as it meets a few standard criteria (crust, sauce, cheese, etc.) whatever the toppings, it’s still pizza. Hearing loss is similar. As long as you are having difficulty hearing sound, whether it’s related to an obstruction, age, loud noise, or anything else, it’s still hearing loss.
Limiting the damage is usually the first step to take when you begin to notice hearing loss. There are, after all, some basic steps you can take to safeguard your ears and limit further hearing loss.
Tip 1: Clean your Ears
Remember when your mom used to always ask “did you clean behind your ears”? But in terms of the health of your hearing, it’s the inner ear, not behind the ears, that we’re concerned with.
Your hearing can be benefited in numerous ways by keeping your ears clear of earwax:
- Unkempt ears increase your risk of getting an ear infection, which causes swelling that, when severe enough, impedes your ability to hear. Your functional hearing will typically return when then the infection clears up.
- When wax accumulation becomes significant, it can stop sound waves from getting into your inner ear. Your hearing becomes jeopardized as a result.
- Earwax buildup also disrupts the functioning of your hearing aid if you have one. This may make it seem like your hearing is worsening.
- Your brain and your ability to decipher sounds can be affected over time by neglected hearing loss.
If you notice earwax buildup, it’s absolutely not recommended that you dig around in there with a cotton swab. In most situations, a cotton swab will make things even worse or cause added damage. Instead, use over-the-counter ear drops.
Tip 2: Loud noise that could contribute to hearing loss should be avoided
This one is so intuitive it almost doesn’t need to be on the list. The issue is that most individuals have no clue what a “loud noise” actually is. it isn’t just blaring speakers or loud rock concerts that damage your hearing, highway driving can be loud enough to harm your ears over a long period of time. The motor on your lawnmower can be very straining on your ears as well. And when you’re out remembering the 4th of July, be mindful to protect your hearing!
Some practical ways to steer clear of damaging noises include:
- When decibel levels get too high, you can use an app on your phone to alert you.
- Using hearing protection when loud environments are inescapable. If you want to go to a loud rock concert or if you work in a noisy factory that’s fine but remember your hearing protection. Contemporary earmuffs and earplugs give ample protection.
- When you’re watching movies or listening to music, keep the headphone volume down. When you’re listening at dangerous volumes, most phones have built-in warnings.
So if you go to a noisy event and your hearing feels fine after, that doesn’t mean it is, because hearing loss is often a gradual progression. Only a hearing specialist can let you know if you have hearing loss.
Tip 3: Treat any hearing loss you may have
Generally speaking, hearing loss is accumulative. So you’ll be in a better position to avoid further harm if you catch it early. That’s why treatment is very essential when it comes to restricting hearing loss. Effective treatments (on which you follow through) will put your hearing in the best possible state.
Treatment works like this:
- Brain strain, social isolation, and other hearing loss-related health issues can be prevented by hearing aids.
- We will help you avoid further damage by providing you with customized advice and instructions.
- Some, but not all damage can be prevented by hearing aids. With a hearing aid, you’re unlikely to turn up the tv to damaging volumes. Because hearing aids prevent this damage, they can also prevent further degeneration of your hearing.
Minimize hearing loss – it will benefit you in the long run
While it’s true that there’s no cure for hearing loss, in many circumstances, hearing loss treatment is one of the primary ways to prevent it. The appropriate treatment will help you maintain your current level of hearing and prevent it from getting worse.
In the years to come you will be providing yourself with the best chance for healthy hearing if you get hearing loss treatment from us, use hearing protection, and practice quality hygiene!