Do you need hearing protection?

Taking care of your ears is essential. Damage to the auditory systems in your ears can sometimes be irreversible. Those who have existing hearing loss know that it's necessary to preserve their remaining hearing as much as possible if they want to continue to communicate with others.

Gradual loss requires preservation

Hearing loss – for the most part – occurs so gradually that it can take an audiologist to confirm the extent of the damage with a series of tests and appointments. It will decline until friends and family point it out to you, and even then you may not believe it! Our brains have the knack of filling in the gaps where our hearing loses out, which is why it's something that goes so unnoticed.

As your hearing is susceptible to damage, it's important to know how to protect it as best you can. There are some risk areas that you may not even consider when it comes to thinking about hearing protection. Preservation is vital when it comes to your hearing, and understanding when the best time is to use ear protection is essential to minimize the damage as much as possible.

Tolerable noise

The noise level that you can tolerate will be different from others, and the point it becomes unpleasant varies massively. There is a hearing pain threshold that is usually set at 120 decibels (db), which means even things like street noise and concerts can impair your hearing health, ranging from 80-100dbs! But how do you know if you should be wearing ear protection? Consider the following scenarios and talk to your audiologist about the best options for your specific needs.

If you play an instrument

It's a skill that most wish to have, but if you are playing an instrument that requires an amp, or is something like drums, then you need to think about protecting ear protection sooner instead of later. There are options out there for your ear protection, including headphones and earplugs. An audiologist can talk you through the best options for your ear protection!

Concert lovers

Music lovers who head to regular concerts definitely need to invest in good ear protection. Children should always wear ear protection at a show, as they have sensitive ears and their hearing can be damaged far easier than an adult.

Noisy workplaces

Those who work in a noisy environment will need the correct ear protection if they don't want to damage their hearing while they earn a living. Construction, factory and shooting range staff are especially in danger of damaging their hearing, and in these areas, ear protection is compulsory. This goes for those who have to use power tools that are especially loud during their day.

Visit your audiologist

Speaking to a qualified and professional audiologist will help you to ascertain whether you have already damaged your hearing. They can give you some options for ear protection and make sure that this is suitable for your budget at the same time.

Prevention is always better than a cure, so seek some advice and ensure that you are adding the right ear protection for you.