3 Simple Ways to Prevent Hearing Loss

Hearing loss has become a common public health problem affecting both the young and the old. The number of people suffering from some degree of hearing loss is increasing by the day in the United States. Unknowingly, we often put our ability to hear at risk, particularly those of us working in noisy environments like construction sites, music venues, and factories. Students are also greatly affected due to the tendency of listening to loud music or prolonged use of headphones.

Since we depend on our hearing for almost everything in life, it is vital that we protect our ears from damage to maintain our ability to hear sharply throughout our lifetime. Here are three simple ways to prevent hearing issues. 

1. Limit Your Exposure to Loud Noise at Work

One of the most notorious causes of hearing loss is long exposure to loud noises. It is vital to note that the damage caused in your ear by loud noises is irreversible. Moreover, people at higher risk are those working in noisy environments where steady, loud, background noise occurs for most of the work day.

If you happen to work in noisy places, protecting your ears from damage should be one of your first priorities. The surest way to protect your ears is to wear ear protectors like ear plugs or ear muffs. Ear protection shields the tiny nerve cells in your inner ear that transmit information to your brain.

2. Choose Safer Gear for Listening to Your Favorite Music

We all love listening to good music, and there are many devices you can use to listen to your favorite music. Some of the most common devices include headphones, headsets and ear buds. These devices are most popular among the younger generations, particularly teenagers, because the devices offer freedom and ultimate privacy without disturbing others. Unfortunately, prolonged use of these devices can cause hearing loss. Earbuds, in particular, cause far more damage compared to headphones that cover the outside of the ear.

To prevent potential hearing loss, external headphones or noise-cancelling headphones are the most suitable because they help reduce ambient noise (or background noise). Once ambient noise is reduced, you don’t have to turn up the volume to clearly listen to your favorite music.

3. Use Ear Protection at Concerts and the Club

Apart from noisy work environments, other sources create loud noises and can cause hearing issues. Fireworks in open space, concerts, clubs, and sporting events are some of the places where most people are exposed to loud noises. Loud music is played in clubs and concerts. More often, hardcore party-lovers report hearing ringing sensations in their ears after a night out. If you love to party, then earplugs would prove to be helpful when it comes to protecting your ears while enjoying your life. Invest in a pair of good earplugs the next time you attend a concert or football game to keep your hearing intact for at least 10 or 20 years down the line.

It doesn’t hurt or cost a lot to ensure that all your senses function properly as you age. Losing your hearing ability can be a devastating experience, especially if you knew you could have taken measures to prevent it. The best way to counter hearing loss is to prevent it before it ever occurs.