Isn’t pizza cool? As long as it meets a few basic criteria (crust, sauce, cheese, etc.) regardless of the toppings, it’s still pizza. Hearing loss is similar. As long as you are having difficulty hearing sound, whether it’s a result of an obstruction, age, loud noise, or anything else, it’s still hearing loss.
Normally, when you’re confronted with hearing loss (regardless of the type), the first thing you need to do is try to stop the damage. This is just one simple step you can take to safeguard your hearing from further damage.
Tip 1: Clean your Ears
Remember when your parents used to always ask “did you clean behind your ears”? But when it comes to the health of your hearing, it’s the inner ear, not behind the ears, that we’re worried about.
Your hearing can be benefited in numerous ways by keeping your ears free of earwax:
- Your ability to hear can be obstructed by inflammation which is caused by profound ear infection as a result of unclean ears. When your ear infection goes away, your normal hearing will usually come back.
- If you wear hearing aids, earwax will also interfere with their functionality. This might make it seem as though your hearing is getting worse.
- Sound waves will have a harder time getting into your inner ear if you have substantial buildup. Your hearing becomes compromised as a result.
- Your brain and your ability to decipher sounds can be impacted over time by neglected hearing loss.
If you notice earwax accumulation, it’s absolutely not suggested that you dig around in there with a cotton swab. In most cases, a cotton swab will make things worse or cause additional damage. Instead, use over-the-counter ear drops.
Tip 2: Try to avoid loud noises that could cause hearing loss
This one is so instinctive it almost shouldn’t be on the list. But identifying what comprises “loud sound” isn’t very easy for most people. it isn’t just blaring speakers or loud rock concerts that damage your ears, freeway driving can be loud enough to harm your ears over a long period of time. The motor on your lawnmower can be very taxing on your ears also. And when you’re out remembering the 4th of July, be mindful to safeguard your hearing!
Some useful ways to steer clear of damaging noises include:
- Avoid turning the volume up on your headphones when you’re streaming videos or listening to music. Most cellphones have built-in warnings when you’re nearing a hazardous threshold.
- When decibel levels get too loud, you can use an app on your phone to alert you.
- Wearing hearing protection when noisy situations are unavoidable. Do you work on a loud factory floor? Do you really want to attend that rock concert? That’s fine. Just wear the necessary ear protection. You can get plenty of protection from contemporary earplugs and earmuffs.
The damage to your ears from loud sounds will accumulate gradually. So, even if your hearing “seems” good after a noisy event, that doesn’t mean it is. Your hearing can only get a clean bill of health by a hearing specialist.
Tip 3: If you have any hearing loss, have it treated
Hearing loss generally accumulates over time. So you’ll be in a better position to prevent further damage if you catch it early. That’s why treatment is extremely important when it comes to controlling hearing loss. Your hearing will be in the best possible condition when you observe the treatment plan we will provide for you.
Treatment works like this:
- We will give you individualized instructions and advice to help you avoid further damage to your hearing.
- Some, but not all damage can be avoided by hearing aids. With a hearing aid, you’re not likely to turn the tv up to damaging volumes. Hearing can prevent further deterioration of your hearing by preventing this type of damage.
- Hearing aids prevent the brain strain and social separation that exacerbate hearing loss-related health issues.
Limit hearing loss – it will benefit you in the long run
While it’s true that hearing loss can’t be cured, in many instances, hearing loss treatment is one of the principal ways to prevent it. Treating your hearing loss correctly will prevent further damage while preserving your current degree of hearing.
In the years to come you will be giving yourself the best chance for healthy hearing if you get hearing loss treatment from us, use hearing protection, and practice good hygiene!