Hearing inevitably deteriorates with age. Is there a way we can prevent early hearing loss and improve your hearing as you get older?
Oftentimes, hearing health is disregarded until an issue arises. We strongly recommend making the necessary effort to protect and enhance hearing because untreated hearing loss can significantly damage one’s physical and mental health.
Audiologists may assist you in maintaining your hearing by doing hearing tests, fits for hearing aids, expert earwax removal, etc. You may also take a few easy steps to take better care of your hearing on your own.
Below are some tips on how you can improve hearing:
Avoid loud noises
Excessive noise and loud sounds are the most common causes of hearing loss and the most preventable. Use dependable hearing protection if you are going to a place with loud sounds (i.e concerts, shooting ranges, fireworks displays, etc.) Make sure the volume level is not too loud (not over 60%) when wearing headphones or earbuds to avoid damaging your hearing. If your job entails you being regularly exposed to loud sounds, it would be best if you consult with your audiologist because they can recommend the best occupational hearing protection for you.
Keep your ears dry
Hearing loss can occur as a result of ear infections and wax buildup brought on by excessive moisture. To avoid water going inside the ear canal after going for a swim or taking a shower, gently wipe your ears dry with a soft cloth or towel.
Improve your hearing by avoiding smoking
Smoking raises your risk of getting hearing loss, according to several studies. This is due to the fact that both nicotine and carbon monoxide reduce blood flow, which is essential for maintaining healthy cells in the inner ear. Smoking also stresses the lining found in your middle ear and prevents your eustachian tube from functioning normally.
Keep an eye out for earwax accumulation
Cerumen, often known as ear wax, is a natural defensive mechanism that protects the inside of your ear against illness, microbes, and other objects. Ear wax is produced by the glands in the outer ear, and its consistency and color can vary.
Hearing can be hampered by ear wax buildup, which also makes sounds seem muffled. You shouldn’t try to remove earwax on your own because you might hurt the delicate lining of the ear canal. Consult an audiologist to learn more about your options. Professional earwax removal may typically resolve concerns with excess earwax.
The existence of ear wax is normal, but too much can cause discomfort and some hearing loss. Never attempt to remove the wax on your own since you run the danger of damaging the ear canal’s delicate lining, puncturing the eardrum, and pushing the wax deeper into the ear canal.
Regularly test your hearing
By spotting early signs of hearing loss, routine hearing tests can boost your chances of preserving normal hearing. The older you get, the more you need to get your hearing checked more frequently because hearing deteriorates with age. Visit an audiologist in your area to learn more about how you can improve your hearing.
Doctors Hearing Care provides various hearing tests in New Albany, IN, and neighboring areas.