Pizza is a fascinating thing. You can switch up the toppings, sauces, even the cheeses involved, but as long as it meets a few standard criteria, it’s still a pizza. That’s also like hearing loss. As long as you are having a hard time hearing sound, whether it’s caused by a blockage, age, loud noise, or anything else, it’s still hearing loss.
Usually, when you’re confronted with hearing loss (regardless of the variety), the first thing you should do is attempt to stop the damage. There are, after all, some easy measures you can take to protect your ears and limit further hearing loss.
Tip 1: Keep your ears clean
Did you clean behind your ears? It’s one of those original hygiene instructions you learn (or should have learned), right? But with regards to the health of your hearing, it’s the inner ear, not behind the ears, that we’re concerned with.
Keeping your ears clear of wax buildups can help your hearing in numerous different ways:
- Untidy ears increase your risk of developing an ear infection, which causes swelling that, when significant enough, interferes with your ability to hear. When your ear infection clears, your normal hearing will usually return.
- Over time, untreated hearing loss affects your brain and your ability to decipher sounds.
- Earwax buildup also interferes with the functioning of your hearing aid if you have one. If this happens you may think that your hearing is getting even worse.
- Sound waves will have a more difficult time reaching your inner ear if you have substantial accumulation. Because of this, your ability to hear becomes weakened.
You should never attempt to use a cotton swab to dig out earwax. In most cases, a cotton swab will make things even worse or cause additional damage. Instead, use over-the-counter ear drops.
Tip 2: Avoid loud noises that could cause hearing loss
This one should be fairly obvious. The problem is that most individuals are hard-pressed to define what a “loud noise” really is. it isn’t just blaring speakers or loud rock concerts that harm your hearing, freeway driving can be loud enough to damage your ears over a long period of time. Your ears can also be compromised by things like your lawn mower engine. And when you’re out remembering the 4th of July, be mindful to protect your hearing!
Here are some useful ways to eliminate noise damage:
- When you’re watching movies or listening to music, keep the headphone volume down. When you’re listening at harmful volumes, most phones have built-in alerts.
- Using ear protection when loud conditions are inescapable. If you want to attend a loud rock concert or if you work in a loud factory that’s fine but remember your hearing protection. Modern earmuffs and earplugs provide ample protection.
- When decibel levels get too loud, you can use an app on your phone to let you know.
The damage to your ears from loud sounds will accumulate gradually. So, even if your hearing “feels” good after a noisy event, that doesn’t mean it is. Only a hearing specialist can give your ears a clean bill of health.
Tip 3: If you have any hearing loss, get it treated
Generally speaking, hearing loss is cumulative. So you’ll be better able to prevent further damage if you catch it early. That’s why treatment is extremely essential when it comes to limiting hearing loss. Your hearing will be in the best possible condition when you observe the treatment plan we will lay out for you.
Here’s how treatments work:
- Some, but not all damage can be avoided by hearing aids. With a hearing aid, you’re unlikely to crank up the tv to damaging volumes. Hearing can prevent further deterioration of your hearing by preventing this kind of damage.
- Brain strain, social withdrawal, and other hearing loss-associated health issues can be prevented by hearing aids.
- We will help you avoid further damage by supplying you with personalized advice and guidelines.
In the long run you will be benefited by wearing hearing aids
While it’s true that hearing loss can’t be cured, in many situations, hearing loss treatment is one of the primary ways to prevent it. Treating your hearing loss appropriately will prevent further damage while preserving your current degree of hearing.
In the years to come you will be providing yourself with the best chance for healthy hearing if you get hearing loss treatment from us, use hearing protection, and practice quality hygiene!