How to Protect Your Hearing

It’s easy to take hearing for granted and to fall into habits that might lead to hearing loss. In the U.S., about 20 percent of people have some type of hearing loss. For people over 65, the number is about 30 percent. Because noise exposure poses the greatest threat to our hearing, knowing how to protect your hearing is vitally important.

Turn the volume down

Volume, that is. There’s a good chance you’ve listened to your favorite song at a high level with or without headphones. Both ways can endanger your hearing health! If you cannot hear a normal conversation while listening to music, the volume is too high. Exposure to sounds more than 80-85 decibels (dB) can lead to hearing loss.

Earbuds can be especially dangerous because they sit inside the ear canal, next to the eardrum. If possible, switch to earphones when using personal listening devices. Noise-cancelling headphones are best for protecting your hearing. Because these headphones can block background noise, you actually listen at a lower volume.

Utilize ear protection

What about situations where you can’t turn it down? It’s time to plug up. Earplugs come in many different shapes and varieties and are made to reduce decibel levels. In many situations such as a live concert, mowing the lawn, or working with power tools, earplugs can help protect your hearing.

Earplugs are made of foam or silicone and are inserted into the ear canal. Instructions are usually found on the package. Most foam earplugs are disposable and may provide protection for only one or two uses. Silicone earplugs may last longer but should be cleaned to avoid any bacterial issues.

If earplugs don’t provide enough protection, earmuffs can effectively reduce and block sound. Earmuffs look like headphones but are stiffer and fit closer to your ears. Your hearing is protected because of thick padding next to and around the ears.

Prepare for loud environments

In situations where you know you will be exposed to loud noises, plan ahead and take ear protection. Whether it’s a concert, fireworks, a movie or another loud place, having earplugs available will protect your hearing.

Schedule a visit to your audiologist for a hearing exam. Routine checks are important because early detection of hearing loss can help prevent further damage.

Be prepared and know the warning signs of hearing loss. These can include ringing in the ears or sometimes a damp or muffled feeling after extended noise exposure.

Protecting your hearing in different situations is simple and very worthwhile. A few small steps taken now can prevent a future decline in your hearing.