Hearing protection is worth making a habit of. Here’s how you can keep your hearing sharp!
Noise-induced hearing loss is a concerning problem in this day and age, with loud concerts, bars, and other social venues being the norm, and loud machinery being a part of daily life. Our sense of hearing is worth protecting just as much as our sight. It directly affects our ability to connect with the world around us. Count this post as your go-to hearing protection guide.
By Hearing Threshold
One way to gauge whether or not you need to limit your exposure to noise is if it surpasses the decibel level of a normal conversation for an extended period. A conversation typically is around 60 decibels, and anything higher than 120 decibels could require hearing protection immediately. Sustained noise exposure to sounds over 80 decibels could be harmful to hearing. If you sense the noise level threatens your hearing health, it’s best to wear hearing protection or move away from it.
By Environment
You can also judge when to use earplugs based on your environment. For example, loud venues can be great for socializing, but earplugs could be necessary if you want to continue socializing.
Using equipment like hair dryers, lawn mowers, and blenders could also hurt your ears. If you know the sound will threaten your hearing health, it’s best to prepare in advance.
By Habit
Wearing hearing protection when you know you need to is one great habit to have. Other good hearing health habits include the following:
- Eating well: Eating delicious, nutrient-rich food that promotes good nerve health, antioxidants, and blood circulation will help maintain your ears’ condition.
- Limiting noise exposure: Even moderate noise levels can take a toll on our hearing after long exposure. It’s best to take breaks now and then and enjoy the silence.
- Reducing earbud usage: Listening to music or podcasts through earbuds at a high-enough volume can cause hearing loss and balance issues. Keep the volume as low as possible and limit your earbud usage.
- Keep clean: Clean your hearing protection after each use and keep your ears clean and dry as well. Do not poke Q-tips deep into your ears, and get earwax removal if necessary.
Trust the Experts at Clarity Audiology & Hearing Solutions
Need help with your hearing? Clarity Hearing can help. Clarity Audiology & Hearing Solutions is an independently owned and operated clinic that focuses on quality of care and personalized, friendly service to the surrounding areas of Ellicott City, Catonsville, and Columbia. Our Doctors of Audiology are highly trained with advanced degrees and take the time to provide the personalized care and attention that you need and deserve. We provide advanced hearing aid options that are personally calibrated with cutting-edge digital technology to fit your hearing loss, your unique ear anatomy, and your individual listening needs.