As the crisp air and vibrant colors of autumn roll in, so do the sounds that make this season unique, children laughing as they trick-or-treat, the satisfying crunch of leaves underfoot, and the crackling of a warm fire. Now imagine those sounds fading away or becoming muddled, diminishing your enjoyment of these precious moments.
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 hands-on steps to safeguard your hearing, you can ensure you don’t miss a beat of this fall’s magic.
Safeguard your hearing from loud noises
The most common cause of both permanent and temporary hearing loss is exposure to loud noises. Exposure to sounds above 85 decibels (dB) can compromise the sensitive structures of your inner ear, leading to hearing loss.
Harmful noise – some common sources
- Heavy traffic: 85 dB
- Sirens: 120 dB
- Outdoor concerts and events: Often 90-140 dB
Occasionally attending a loud event can lead to hearing loss that is typically temporary and will clear up 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.
Autumn ear protection guidelines
- 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 attend outdoor concerts or Halloween get-togethers, bring earplugs to decrease the volume without muting the experience.
- Avoid sitting near 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 high noise levels.
Cold weather and ear health
As temperatures drop, remember to protect your ears from the chill. Cold weather can have a major impact on your hearing, leaving you susceptible to ear infections. Adults are just as susceptible to ear infections as children, especially when exposed to cold and windy conditions.
The danger of ear infections
Cold air can trigger swelling and fluid buildup in the middle ear, causing discomfort, pain, and temporary hearing loss. If an ear infection goes untreated, it can impact both your hearing health and your general health, resulting in more serious health issues.
Preventive measures for cold weather
- Wear ear protection: Keep your ears warm by entirely covering them with a hat, earmuffs, or a headband.
- Pay attention to symptoms: If you feel pain, fluid draining from the ear, or experience sudden hearing loss, contact a healthcare provider right away for evaluation and treatment.
Guidelines for safe ear cleaning
While earwax is usually viewed as a nuisance, it plays a crucial role in keeping your ears healthy by capturing dust, debris, and insects. However, too much earwax can block your ear canal and result in considerable problems.
You should never clean your ears with cotton swabs as they can jam earwax further into the ear canal and potentially cause ear damage. Here are some better cleaning options:
- Consult a professional: Come in to see us if you suspect you might have a wax blockage or if you’re not sure how to best clean your ears. We can prevent further issues by making use of specialized tools to safely remove the earwax.
- Hydrogen peroxide drops: Utilize a few drops of hydrogen peroxide or an over-the-counter earwax solution to soften and clear out excess wax. After the drops have been in your ear for a few minutes, tip your head to allow for drainage.
Medication-related hearing issues
Some medications can have unexpected side effects, including hearing issues. Common medications such as certain antibiotics, diuretics, and even large doses of aspirin can impede your hearing.
If you notice changes in your hearing after beginning a new medication, it’s essential to contact your doctor. They can identify whether your hearing loss is due to the medication and advise you on the best plan of action.
As soon as you notice indications of hearing loss, take action
Seasonal activities in autumn are full of wonderful sounds, and the ability to hear them clearly is something you don’t want to lose. If you notice any changes in your hearing, don’t hesitate to make an appointment with us for a thorough evaluation.
