October is Audiology Awareness Month, and there’s no better way to celebrate than to think about your own hearing health. Many people think of hearing loss as an unavoidable byproduct of aging, but that isn’t the case. While age-related hearing loss is common, it isn’t the only cause. Factors like genetics, illness, physical trauma and loud noise exposure can all damage hearing. In fact, you may be surprised to learn that approximately 5% of the global population has some degree of noise-induced hearing loss. While this fact sounds alarming, it’s helpful to understand that loud noise exposure is one of the most preventable causes of hearing damage.
To celebrate Audiology Awareness Month, let’s take a look at three key tips to protect your hearing moving forward.
Set Decibel Limits
Noise is measured in decibels (dB). For example, a washing machine puts off approximately 70 dB of sound, while a nearby emergency siren measures around 120 dB. Prolonged exposure to noise at or above 85 dB or short exposure to noise above 120 dB can damage hearing. To help protect your ears, set an 80 dB limit on your TV and personal audio devices (cell phones, radios etc.).
Limit Headphone Use
Setting decibel limits is a great way to protect your hearing, but limiting headphone use is still a good idea. If you prefer to wear headphones most of the day, opt for over-the-ear noise-canceling headphones that allow you to hear your favorite music without raising the volume too high. If you have kids who love blasting music, a pair of noise-canceling headphones makes a great birthday present! Don’t forget to remind them about the importance of setting decibel limits when listening to their favorite tunes.
Wear Hearing Protection
You can’t always control the volume around you. When that’s the case, hearing protection options like earplugs and earmuffs or covers can help keep your ears safe. Hearing protection works by dampening the force with which sound hits your ears, lessening the likelihood of damage. Remember to wear earmuffs if you work around construction equipment or other heavy machinery (noisy workplaces are OSHA-required to provide hearing protection), and bring a pair of earplugs to concerts at The Canyon.
Lowering the volume, limiting headphone usage and wearing protective equipment are three great ways to safeguard your hearing this month and onward. If you’ve noticed that your hearing seems muffled or you’re ready for a routine check-up, contact Decibel Hearing Services today to schedule a hearing test with one of our trusted specialists.