Our bodies are amazing and the bits and pieces that make them up are incredibly long-lasting. However, as we get older, those bits and pieces tend to wear out, which is why, sadly, hearing loss is not always preventable. But, if you look after yourself, it’s amazing how much you could delay the deterioration of your hearing. So, here are four ways you can prevent hearing loss.
1. Avoid Being Around Loud Noises
Let us start with the most obvious; loud noises. Loud noises are bad for your ears so avoiding them, especially if they are prolonged, is a very good idea. Mind you, it’s easy to say avoid exposure to loud noises for too long, but how loud is loud, and how long is too long? Well, anything over 85 decibels (dB) (the noise level of heavy traffic) for a sustained period of time may do damage. However, once you get over 100 dB (music at full volume through headphones) for more than 15 minutes, then you really need to start taking some major action such as moving away if possible or wearing earplugs if not.
2. Take Care When Wearing Earphones
One of the major problems when listening to music through earphones is not so much the act of listening to the music but trying to counteract the noise from outside by turning up the volume. Instead of doing this, invest in a pair of noise-canceling earphones. Additionally, if your device has volume settings, set the volume to no more than 60% of full volume. Finally, set yourself a time limit of between 45 and 60 minutes. If you’re concerned you’ve been listening to music for too long or too loudly, check out Miracle-Ear for all your hearing needs.
3. Ensure Your Ears Are Protected at Work
If your work environment is noisy, ensure that you are wearing earplugs or protectors at all times. Your employer should supply you with hearing protection, but you may want to make sure that the protection you are being given is adequate for the task in hand. If it isn’t, complain. But go and buy yourself some extra protection anyway. While it’s all well and good arguing with the boss, you don’t want to ruin your hearing while you’re waiting for them to do the right thing.
4. Be Careful When Taking Medication
One little-known fact is that medication can affect hearing as well. If you are going to be taking any medicine long-term, then you should talk to your doctor and ask them if it will have any detrimental effects on your hearing. If it will, ask if there are any alternatives that your physician can recommend. If there are no alternatives, ask if there is another way to tackle your health problems without taking medication that could cause problems in the future.
Wrapping It All Up
Taking care of your ears can make all the difference to your chances of developing hearing loss but if you are worried that your hearing may already be damaged, then head over to Miracle-Ear and take a free hearing test.
