Effective-Strategies-to-Prevent-Noise-Induced-Hearing-Loss
In our bustling urban world, everyone is constantly on the move, and time is money. We often strive to care for our bodies and systems. Our bodies are designed to withstand certain amounts of physical and mental pressure. However, we sometimes ignore symptoms or issues and take very few precautions to care for ourselves. According to CDC.gov, approximately 12.5% of children and adolescents aged 6–19 years and 17% of adults aged 20–69 years have suffered permanent hearing damage from excessive noise exposure.
Many readers might think their ears are fine, but often, by the time they realize there’s a problem, it’s too late. It’s important to understand that not all humans are the same; some have more sensitive ear canals. Extensive exposure to surrounding sounds can affect many people, especially as they age. The research shows that people aged 20–69 have suffered permanent damage from excessive noise exposure.
Causes of Noise-Induced Hearing Loss
Noise-induced hearing loss occurs when structures and nerve fibres in the inner ear that respond to sound are damaged. This damage is usually caused by exposure to excessively loud sounds and cannot be medically or surgically corrected. It can result from a one-time exposure to a very loud sound, such as a blast or impulse, or from listening to loud sounds over an extended period.
In simple terms, loud, continuous noise, like working in an industrial environment without proper ear protection, can cause hearing loss. Continuous traffic noise, loud concerts, and listening to music at high volume on speakers, headphones, or earbuds are also culprits. Working with gas-powered lawnmowers, snowmobiles, power tools, or gunfire can contribute to hearing loss.
How to Prevent Noise-Induced Hearing Loss
To prevent noise-induced hearing loss, avoid continuous loud environments if you can’t, use earmuffs or earplugs. Reduce the volume of speakers when listening to music or watching TV.
Take care of your ears and children
Human ears can adjust to sound and adapt to the environment, but it’s essential to ensure the speaker volume is very low, especially when children are present. Avoid standing in front of large speakers at concerts or parties, particularly if the music has loud bass or high-pitched frequencies. Maintain a distance from the speakers that is comfortable and does not harm your ears. If you can’t avoid such situations, use earplugs or similar devices to protect your ears.
Using headphones & Earbuds, especially during outdoor workout
Listen to headphones and earbuds at 50% volume or less. People often listen to music at high volumes to drown out outside noise and enhance bass effects. Try to reduce the sound; your ears will adjust within seconds. Periodically remove headphones or earbuds to balance air pressure in your ears. This helps maintain balance and prevents blackouts. If you work out or exercise outdoors, use open-type headphones or earbuds at reasonable sound levels to avoid ear damage. As mentioned, remove them periodically for better air ventilation.
Continuous phone can affect your ear
Continuous phone use can also harm your hearing. According to Dr. Allison Catlett Woodall from UAMS, cell phone use exceeding 60 minutes/day can cause lasting damage, such as high-frequency hearing loss. Dr Woodall suggests being mindful of music volume and changing how you talk on the phone. Using the speaker or hands-free option can reduce harmful effects by distancing the sound source from your ear.
Monitoring Your Hearing Health
With the advent of online resources, many websites and apps can help check your hearing health. Audio manufacturers often provide ear testing apps, but some may offer louder volumes and more bass, depending on your ear canal condition.
You can try online resources like hourihearing.ae for hearing tests. However, for the best results, get your ears tested by authorized, licensed professionals like otolaryngologists. I hope this article helps you and your friends take care of your ears and avoid noise-induced hearing loss.
A Request to the reader
If you can, share this article or the link on your social media pages to help others prevent hearing loss.
Disclaimer
This article aims to assist people based on findings from multiple sources, without claiming that all causes mentioned are the only reasons for noise-induced hearing loss. Many solutions are available in the market and the medical field.
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