Pizza is a fascinating thing. As long as it meets a few basic criteria (crust, sauce, cheese, etc.) regardless of the toppings, it’s still pizza. Hearing loss is also like this. Symptoms and manifestations are a consequence of many different problems – loud noises, genetics, age, ear blockages – but as long as you have trouble hearing sounds, it’s still hearing loss.
Normally, when you’re confronted with hearing loss (regardless of the variety), the first thing you should do is attempt to stop the damage. This is only one basic step you can take to safeguard your hearing from further harm.
Tip 1: Clean your Ears
Did you clean behind your ears? It’s one of those original hygiene lessons you learn (or should have learned), right? But in terms of the health of your hearing, it’s the inner ear, not behind the ears, that we’re worried about.
Keeping your ears clear of wax accumulation can help your hearing in a few different ways:
- Earwax accumulation also impedes the functioning of your hearing aid if you use one. If this occurs you may think that your hearing is getting even worse.
- When wax buildup becomes significant, it can block sound waves from getting into your inner ear. Your hearing becomes compromised as a result.
- Over time, neglected hearing loss affects your brain and your ability to decipher sounds.
- Your ability to hear can be impeded by swelling which is caused by profound ear infection as a result of unclean ears. Your normal hearing will typically come back when then the infection goes away.
If you notice earwax accumulation, it’s absolutely not suggested that you dig around in there with a cotton swab. Cotton swabs can push the earwax further up into the ear canal and can cause even more harm. Instead, use over-the-counter ear drops.
Tip 2: Loud noise that could lead to hearing loss should be avoided
This one is so intuitive it almost doesn’t need to be on the list. The problem is that most individuals are hard-pressed to define what a “loud noise” actually is. it isn’t just blaring speakers or loud rock concerts that harm your hearing, highway driving can be noisy enough to harm your ears over a long period of time. Your ears can also be damaged by things like the motor of your lawn mower. 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:
- Using an app on your phone to let you know when decibel levels reach hazardous thresholds.
- Refrain from turning the volume up on your headphones when you’re watching videos or listening to tunes. When you’re listening at dangerous levels, most phones have built-in alerts.
- When you can’t avoid being in a loud setting, use hearing protection. Do you work on a noisy factory floor? Do you really want to attend that rock concert? That’s fine. Just wear the necessary hearing protection. You can get plenty of protection from modern earplugs and earmuffs.
So if you go to a noisy event and your hearing seems fine after, that doesn’t mean it is, because hearing loss is usually a gradual progression. Your hearing can only be properly assessed by a hearing specialist.
Tip 3: If you have any hearing loss, have it treated
In general, hearing loss is cumulative. So, the earlier you catch the damage, the better you’ll be able to stop further damage. That’s why treatment is incredibly crucial when it comes to controlling hearing loss. Your hearing will be in the best possible condition when you stick to the treatment plan we will lay out for you.
Treatment works like this:
- We will give you individualized instructions and guidance to help you avoid further damage to your hearing.
- Mental strain, social isolation, and other hearing loss-related health issues can be prevented by hearing aids.
- Some, but not all damage can be avoided by hearing aids. With a hearing aid, you’re unlikely to turn up the tv to harmful volumes. Because hearing aids stop this damage, they can also prevent further degeneration of your hearing.
In the long run you will be benefited by wearing hearing aids
While it’s true that there’s no cure for hearing loss, in many circumstances, hearing loss treatment is one of the main ways to prevent it. Treating your hearing loss correctly will prevent additional damage while protecting your current degree of hearing.
When you wear hearing protection, practice quality hygiene, and pursue hearing loss treatment with a hearing specialist, you’re taking the proper measures to limit hearing loss while also giving yourself the best opportunity for healthy hearing in the years to come!
