The fall season is a standout time in the annual calendar. Picture yourself in a cozy setting, enveloped by the warmth and joy of the season – the sound of children’s giggles on Halloween, the rustle of leaves under your feet on a brisk autumn day, the relaxing crackle of a fire, and the love and laughter of family sitting around the table on Thanksgiving. Now imagine that you can’t hear those things or that they are muted.

Failing to experience these sounds can dramatically lessen the cheery atmosphere. Fortunately, many hearing problems are non permanent and can be resolved by dealing with underlying causes that are usually easy to fix or prevent. Take these steps to safeguard your hearing, and enjoy autumn to its fullest.

Tips for preserving your hearing

It is clear and undeniable that extended exposure to loud sounds can result in temporary hearing impairment, and if the exposure continues over time, it can develop into a permanent condition. Excessive volume can harm the delicate parts of your inner ear, so it is essential to take steps to minimize the danger.

A one-time, very loud noise like an explosion can cause short-term hearing loss, and while prompt medical attention can help limit the effects, that’s hard to avoid. Lengthier exposure to sounds at 85 decibels or higher, though, can also cause hearing loss and is usually easier to avoid.

Heavy traffic clocks in at 85 decibels, and sirens come in at 120 decibels. In addition to firecrackers and fireworks, loud music through earbuds can also pose a threat to your hearing. Be cautious when increasing the volume, as the closeness of the sound to your eardrum can result in damage. (Unfortunately, there are no exceptions for your favorite song when it comes to earbuds or headphones.)

Fall’s celebrations typically include outdoor get-togethers and live music events. The weather is still beautiful, and you might find yourself in a park where you can spark up a grill and lay down a blanket. Use prudence when sitting directly in front of the speakers as you could be dealing with a powerful 140 decibels of sound. Concerts often reach unsafe decibel levels even at a considerable distance.

What’s the most effective course of action to take?

Protecting your hearing by using earplugs is one of the most beneficial things you can do. You will still be able to hear the music and appreciate the fireworks, just with reduced potential harm to your hearing. As alluring as it is, try not to keep creeping closer to those speakers as the night passes.

Keep your ears warm in cool temperatures

Protecting your ears as the weather cools down and more blustery is essential to prevent infections. Be sure you and your family are wearing ear muffs or a hat. You might think of your children and grandchildren when you think of ear infections, but adults get them as well. Fluid build-up in the middle ear is an outcome of these infections, which also lead to inflammation. Discharge from the ear, soreness, and impaired hearing are potential symptoms you might experience.

If you have an ear infection, you should consult a doctor right away. It might be a sign of another medical issue, and lack of treatment is hazardous not just for your hearing but also for your general health.

Safely clean out earwax

That pesky earwax may get on your nerves, but it serves the essential purpose of capturing dirt, bugs, and debris before they reach your inner ear. However, an overabundance of earwax can become a problem, especially if it impedes your ability to hear effectively.

The first action in avoiding hearing issues caused by earwax is prevention. You may have spent many years using a cotton swab or another tool to get rid of earwax, but it’s time to stop that method. Making use of cotton swabs can jam earwax deeper into your ear, potentially resulting in a buildup and impaired hearing.

Try cleaning your ears by putting in drops of hydrogen peroxide or buying over-the-counter drops. Allow the drops to sit for a short while, then tilt your head to facilitate drainage. Consider consulting an audiologist or hearing specialist if ear cleaning seems daunting or if you suspect a severe blockage. Special tools are available to them that will streamline the task.

Prescription or over-the-counter medicines might be to blame

If you beging taking a new medicine and noticed that you suddenly have a harder time hearing, it could be the medication. Certain antibiotics, diuretics, large doses of aspirin, and other drugs can lead to hearing problems. If you are worried about this matter, contact your physician right away to figure out whether you should continue taking your medication.

Remember, any changes in your hearing should get checked out right away.

Get in touch with a hearing care specialist if you are experiencing hearing loss this season.