In a world filled with loud TVs, stereos, concerts and personal audio devices, prioritizing hearing protection is more critical than ever. Whether you’re a music lover, a movie enthusiast or simply concerned about preserving your hearing, taking steps to practice protection against noise-induced hearing loss is an excellent 2024 New Year’s resolution.
How Does Loud Noise Affect Your Hearing?
Noise is measured in decibels. For example, breathing generally registers at 10 dB, and firecrackers range from 140 to 150 decibels. The Centers for Disease Control defines the threshold for hearing loss as exposure to noise over 70 dB for a prolonged period or over 120 dB immediately.
When your ears are exposed to sound above the safe threshold, the tiny hair cells in your ear can become overworked and suffer permanent damage. Because hearing loss is often permanent, it is crucial to understand the importance of protecting our ears and taking proactive steps to prevent further hearing damage. Let’s take a look at a few tips for protecting your hearing.
Regular Hearing Checks
One of the first steps in protecting your hearing is to schedule regular hearing checks. These checks, conducted by audiologists, help identify any early signs of hearing loss and allow for early intervention. By monitoring your hearing health, you can address any issues promptly and take necessary precautions to prevent further damage.
Use of Noise-Cancelling Headphones
Noise-canceling headphones are a valuable tool in reducing exposure to loud noises. These headphones actively block external sounds, allowing you to enjoy your music or media at lower volumes without sacrificing audio quality.
Avoiding Loud Noises
Being mindful of noise levels in your environment is crucial for hearing protection. Limiting exposure to loud sounds whenever possible can help prevent long-term damage. Whether it’s turning down the volume on your television, avoiding noisy construction areas or swapping concerts at Rupp Arena for quieter events, small changes in our daily routines can make a big difference in preserving our hearing health.
Protecting Ears During Loud Events or Activities
If you attend loud events, it is essential to protect your ears. Wearing earplugs or other protective gear can significantly reduce the impact of loud noises on your hearing. By proactively protecting your ears in noisy environments, you can still enjoy these events while minimizing the risk of hearing damage.
By scheduling regular hearing checks, using noise-cancelling headphones, avoiding loud noises when possible and protecting your ears during loud events or activities, you can take active steps to preserve your hearing health in 2024. To learn more about hearing protection, contact The Hearing & Speech Center today.
