The one thing that could save your hearing

While hearing loss can be caused by a number of factors including illness, trauma and ageing, the most significant cause is exposure to excessive loud noise. It accounts for 37 per cent of hearing loss cases in Australia and it is the one trigger that is entirely preventable. Exposure to continual loud noise damages the delicate hair cells in the inner ear, similar to effect of ageing on the ear. This damage can result in permanent hearing loss and tinnitus (ringing of the ears). While it is impossible to stay away from all noise, it is crucial you protect your ears from excessive loud noises. Here are six easy ways to take action now.

1. Knowing how loud is “too loud”

The first step is being aware of what noise levels can cause damage. Don’t be fooled into thinking if noises don’t “hurt” your ears than it can’t be bad for them. Any noise which rises above 85 decibels can damage your hearing. To put that in perspective, sounds form a lawnmower, hair-dryer, blender and food processor are around 80 to 90 decibels. Busy traffic noises, vacuum cleaners and alarm clocks are considered loud at decibels of 70. And noises at a sporting game or concert can reach levels of 100 to 120 decibels. Of course, hearing loud noise occasionally and for a limited time isn’t a big threat to your hearing but repeated and continual exposure can damage hearing. It is important to be aware of the noises in your everyday life so you can be responsible to your hearing health.

2. Turn the volume down

When you are at home turn down the volume on your TV, radio and stereo. This is especially important if you listen to a music device with earphones or headphones. If someone is standing a metre away from you and you can’t hear what they are saying, the sound is too loud. Invest in noise-reducing headphones so you won’t have to turn up the volume.

3. Limit exposure to noisy environments

Limit the time and frequency you spend at noisy places. If you have to shout at a person a metre away to be heard, then the environment is too loud. Concerts, fireworks displays, sporting events and festivals are all common events where the noise levels can be damaging to your ears. It may not always be feasible to avoid these events so invest in earplugs to protect your ears. 

4. Wear earplugs

If you are involved in loud activities or attending noisy events consider investing in hearing protection such as earplugs or earmuffs. This will reduce the intensity of the sound being heard. Foam earplugs are available at pharmacies and earmuffs from sporting or safety equipment stores.

5. Educate family, friends, and colleagues to be aware of hazards of noise

If you want to make changes in your household or at work, it’s a good idea to get everyone on board. This way you can help each other monitor noise levels and take preventative steps.

6. Get your ears checked regularly

As we age it is crucial we monitor our hearing and check if there are any problems. Visit your doctor or a hearing health professional for a comprehensive hearing test. If you are after a quick immediate answer, you can take an online hearing test which assesses your hearing health and lets you know if you are in the normal range. You can find one from Connect Hearing here.