Pizza is an interesting thing. You can switch up the toppings, sauces, even the cheeses concerned, but as long as it meets some basic criteria, it’s still a pizza. Hearing loss is similar. As long as you are having a hard time hearing sound, whether it’s related to a blockage, age, loud noise, or anything else, it’s still hearing loss.
Usually, when you first notice hearing loss (no matter the type), the first thing you need to do is try to minimize 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 constantly ask “did you wash 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 interested in.
Keeping your ears free of wax accumulation can help your hearing in a few different ways:
- Sound waves will have a more difficult time getting into your inner ear if you have significant accumulation. Because of this, your ability to hear becomes weakened.
- Your brain and your ability to interpret sounds can be impacted over time by untreated hearing loss.
- Earwax buildup 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.
- Your ability to hear can be obstructed by swelling which is caused by profound ear infection as a result of unclean ears. Your normal hearing will typically return when then the infection clears.
If you notice earwax accumulation, it’s absolutely not recommended that you dig around in there with a cotton swab. In most situations, a cotton swab will make things worse or cause additional damage. You can get earwax removal drops over-the-counter at your local drugstore which work better and are safer than swabs.
Tip 2: Loud noise that could lead to hearing loss should be avoided
This one should be fairly intuitive. But determining what comprises “loud sound” is not very easy for most people. There are lots of risks to your hearing in day-to-day life including things as common as driving on a noisy highway every day over long periods. The motor on your lawnmower can be very straining on your ears as well. And when you’re out remembering the 4th of July, be cautious to protect your hearing!
Some practical ways to steer clear of harmful noises include:
- When you can’t prevent being in a loud setting, use hearing protection. If you want to go to a loud rock concert or if you work in a loud factory that’s okay but remember your ear protection. You can get enough protection from modern earplugs and earmuffs.
- Avoid turning up the volume on your headphones when you’re streaming videos or listening to tunes. Most cellphones include built-in alerts when you’re nearing a dangerous threshold.
- When decibel levels get too loud, you can use an app on your phone to let you know.
So if you go to a noisy event and your hearing feels 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: Treat any hearing loss you may have
Hearing loss typically 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 very important when it comes to restricting hearing loss. Your hearing will be in the best possible condition when you stick to the treatment plan we will provide for you.
Here’s how treatments work:
- Hearing aids can prevent some, but not all, damage. With a hearing aid, you’re unlikely to crank the tv up to damaging volumes. Hearing can stop further deterioration of your hearing by preventing this kind of damage.
- We will give you personalized instructions and guidance to help you avoid further damage to your hearing.
- Hearing aids prevent the mental strain and social separation that worsen hearing loss-related health problems.
In the long run you will be benefited by using hearing aids
Treatment is one of the primary ways to prevent hearing loss despite the fact that there’s no cure. The appropriate treatment will help you preserve your current level of hearing and prevent it from becoming worse.
In the years to come you will be providing yourself with the best opportunity for healthy hearing if you get hearing loss treatment from us, use hearing protection, and practice quality hygiene!
The content of this blog is the intellectual property of MedPB.com and is reprinted here with permission.
The site information is for educational and informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. To receive a personalized free hearing test and hearing loss consultation, call today to set up an appointment.
