As the crisp air and bright colors of autumn roll in, so do the sounds that make this season unique, children laughing as they trick-or-treat, the gratifying 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 start to fade away.
Hearing issues can put a damper on your autumn experiences, but fortunately, many hearing issues can be avoided or treated with simple safeguards. By taking proactive steps to protect your hearing, you can ensure you don’t miss a beat of this fall’s magic.
Protect your ears from noise
The most prevalent cause of both permanent and temporary hearing loss is exposure to loud sounds. Exposure to sounds over 85 decibels (dB) can compromise the sensitive structures of your inner ear, resulting in hearing loss.
What are common sources of harmful noise?
- Sirens: 120 dB
- Heavy traffic: 85 dB
- Outdoor concerts and events: Often 90-140 dB
Periodically attending a loud event can lead to hearing loss that is usually temporary and will improve over a day or two. Repeated exposure to loud noises, like going to concerts regularly, or listening to loud audio on headphones every day, can result in more permanent hearing loss.
Guidelines for safeguarding your ears in autumn
- Avoid sitting beside loudspeakers: While it’s tempting to get close to the action, sitting right next to the speakers at an event can subject you to hazardously loud noise levels.
- Turn down your headphones: In order to avoid damage, listen at a lower volume level and limit headphone usage.
- Wear earplugs at events: If you go to outdoor concerts or Halloween get-togethers, use earplugs to lower the volume without muting the experience.
Cold weather and ear health
Remember to safeguard your ears from the cold as temperatures drop. Cold weather can leave your ears susceptible to infections, which in turn can impact your hearing. Adults are just as prone to ear infections as children, particularly when exposed to cold and windy conditions.
The danger of ear infections
Cold air can lead to discomfort, temporary hearing loss, and pain because it can cause fluid accumulation and swelling of the middle ear. If an ear infection goes untreated, it can affect both your hearing health and your overall 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 right away for assessment and treatment.
- Wear ear protection: Invest in earmuffs, headbands, or hats that completely cover your ears to keep them warm.
Safe ear cleaning tips
Earwax, while frequently thought of as a nuisance, traps debris, dust, and insects, playing an important role in your total ear health. However, excessive earwax can become problematic, especially if it blocks your hearing.
Many people use cotton swabs to clean their ears, but this common practice can actually push the wax further into your ear canal, creating blockages and even harming the ear. Better cleaning solutions include:
- 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 safely clear out the wax with specialized tools and prevent further issues.
- Hydrogen peroxide drops: Loosen the earwax by using over-the-counter earwax solutions or a few drops of hydrogen peroxide. After the drops have been in your ear for several minutes, tip your head to allow for drainage.
Medication-related hearing issues
Some medications can have unforeseen side effects, including hearing problems. Common medications such as certain antibiotics, diuretics, and even large doses of aspirin can impair your hearing.
If you notice changes in your hearing after beginning a new medication, it’s important to contact your physician. They can identify whether your hearing loss is connected 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 wonderful sounds, and the ability to hear them clearly is something you don’t want to lose. Schedule an appointment for a consultation if you notice any changes to your hearing.