As the cool air and vibrant colors of autumn set in, so do the sounds that make this season unique, kids laughing as they trick-or-treat, the satisfying crunch of leaves underfoot, and the crackling of a warm fire. Now imagine how much less pleasant your fall experience will be if those sounds begin to fade away.
Hearing problems can put a damper on your autumn experiences, but fortunately, many hearing problems can be avoided or treated with simple safeguards. By taking proactive steps to safeguard your hearing, you can ensure you don’t miss a beat of this fall’s magic.
Safeguard your hearing from loud sounds
Loud noises are one of the most common causes of both temporary and permanent hearing impairment. Hearing impairment can begin to occur when you’re exposed to noises above 85 decibels (dB) causing damage to the sensitive structures of the inner ear.
What are prevalent sources of damaging noise?
- Outdoor concerts and events: Often 90-140 dB
- Heavy traffic: 85 dB
- Sirens: 120 dB
Periodically attending a loud event can result in hearing loss that is normally temporary and will improve over a day or two. More prolonged exposure to high decibel levels, including regularly attending concerts or using loud headphones on a daily basis, can also cause permanent problems.
Autumn hearing protection guidelines
- Use earplugs at events: Make use of earplugs at Halloween events or outdoor concerts to give your ears some level of protection while still allowing you to enjoy yourself.
- Avoid sitting beside loudspeakers: While getting right up next to the action may be enticing, the noise level right beside the loudspeakers is dangerously loud and can certainly damage your hearing.
- Turn down your headphones: Reduce headphone usage 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 leave your ears susceptible to infections, which in turn can impact your hearing. Adults are just as vulnerable to ear infections as children, especially when exposed to cold and windy conditions.
Why ear infections are dangerous
Cold air can cause swelling and fluid accumulation in the middle ear, leading to discomfort, pain, and temporary hearing loss. If an ear infection is neglected, it can affect both your hearing health and your general health, leading to more serious health issues.
Protective measures for cold weather
- 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.
- Wear ear protection: Invest in earmuffs, headbands, or hats that completely cover your ears to keep them warm.
Safe ear cleaning guidelines
Earwax, while frequently regarded as a nuisance, captures debris, dust, and insects, playing a vital role in your total ear health. However, excessive earwax can become problematic, particularly if it blocks your hearing.
Many individuals use cotton swabs to clean their ears, but this common habit can actually pack the wax further into your ear canal, creating blockages and even damaging the ear. Here are some better cleaning solutions:
- Consult a professional: Come in to see us if you think you may have a wax blockage or if you’re uncertain how to best clean your ears. We can prevent further issues by using specialized tools to safely clear out the earwax.
- Hydrogen peroxide drops: Loosen the earwax by using over-the-counter earwax solutions or a few drops of hydrogen peroxide. Let the solution sit for a few minutes, then tip your head to allow it to drain.
Hearing loss related to medication
Some medications can have unexpected side effects, including hearing issues. Your hearing can be impaired by certain common medications, such as diuretics, antibiotics, and large doses of aspirin.
If you observe changes in your hearing after starting a new medication, it’s important to contact your physician. Whether your hearing loss is because of a new medication, and if so, what to do about it, are things they will help you with.
Take action at the first indication of hearing loss
Seasonal experiences in autumn are full of memorable sounds, and the ability to hear them clearly is something you don’t want to lose. Make an appointment for a consultation if you notice any changes to your hearing.
