Exposure to the loud noise of fireworks, gunshots, motorcycles, lawnmowers, mechanical machinery, and blaring music can all contribute to hearing loss – so this can indeed be prevented by wearing effective protection over your ears. Hearing loss that is inborn, or that is due to age-related changes to the inner structures of the ear, is generally not preventable. Either way, even permanent hearing loss is treatable with today’s hearing technology.
Whether your hearing loss was caused externally or is natural, it can be treated by a professional ear, nose, and throat (ENT) doctor and an audiologist. In the meantime, let’s talk about how you can prevent hearing loss, and where you can go in Georgetown for a hearing evaluation and treatment to help restore your hearing.
Protect Your Ears from Loud Noise
Any sound that goes over 85 dB (decibels) is harmful to your hearing. For example, things that cause noise above this level include lawnmowers, chainsaws, and jackhammers.
To protect your hearing, wear earplugs whenever you’re exposed to – or about to be exposed to – loud noises such as heavy traffic, airplanes, or concert music. Even be aware of everyday noises that you normally ignore, such as using a loud blender or juicer. Construction workers and other professionals who are constantly exposed to loud noise usually wear hearing-protection devices, so be sure to choose one that has a noise-reduction level of 20 dB or higher.
Be Aware of the Loud Noises You Tend to Ignore
You may be used to loud noise, but your ears never are. Hearing loss progresses whenever you are exposed to loud noise, even intermittently.
Here’s a guide: If there is noise in the area, and you have to raise your voice in order for the other person to hear you (and you strain to hear what the other person is saying as well), then the noise is loud enough to be harmful. If you are listening to music through earphones, earbuds, or headphones, keep the volume between 60 and 80 decibels. You can get a sound meter to get an actual reading.
If you’ve exposed your ears to loud noise, allow them time to recover. Give your ears at least one full day of no exposure to loud noise.
ENT Doctor in Georgetown, TX
While these tips can help to prevent noise-induced hearing loss, these also help in reducing the severity of an age-related hearing loss. If you are concerned about your hearing, an ear, nose, and throat doctor can conduct an evaluation and get you on the right track. The earlier hearing loss is diagnosed, the sooner it can be treated successfully. Plus, early treatment can help prevent a worsening of the condition.
Here at Georgetown ENT, we not only offer hearing aids but also hearing protection devices. If you have any questions or would like to schedule an appointment, contact our caring staff today by calling us at (512) 869-0604 or by filling out our appointment request form online now. We look forward to being your family’s healthcare partner!
