Since there is no cure for hearing loss, protecting your hearing is the best defense against developing impairment. Though some hearing loss can’t be prevented, the onset of hearing loss is often avoidable using proper precautionary measures. If you need help with any hearing protection methods, don’t hesitate call us anytime.
Protecting from Noise-Induced Hearing Loss
Noise-induced hearing loss (NIHL) is the most common type of hearing loss, causing 25% of all impairments. NIHL is easy to prevent by properly protecting your hearing. With cases of NIHL rising steadily each year, protecting your hearing in Southaven is more important now than ever before. The number one rule in NIHL protection is to always air on the side of caution. It’s better to protect your ears in cases where it may not be necessary than to risk exposing them to dangerously loud sounds. Any sound over 85 decibels has the potential to permanently damage your ears.
Earplugs are the best way to prevent against NIHL. You should always carry a pair with you, especially when attending concerts, sports games and other loud events. Many people choose to use custom earmolds for top-notch protection. You can also protect your ears by turning down the volume on TVs, phones and radios; limiting the number of noisy appliances you use at once; and buying the quietest available tools, equipment and appliances.
Preventing Hearing Loss from Ototoxic Medications
Avoiding the drugs that cause hearing loss is another important way to protect yourself from developing a hearing problem. There are more than 200 prescription and over-the-counter medications known to damage hearing, and most people using them don’t realize the risks. Included in this category are some antibiotics, chemotherapy drugs and salicylate pain relievers, including aspirin. Talk to your doctor about any new medication’s side effects before you begin taking it. Always take medicine only as directed, and stop use until you see us immediately if you notice signs of hearing loss or tinnitus.
Protection from Injury-Related Hearing Loss
Trauma to the head, neck or ear can result in permanent hearing loss. This can occur from fighting, contact sports, recreational accidents, car crashes and more. Since your hearing system is very delicate, slight damage to the bones or nerves in the skull can result in changes to your hearing. Always wear your seatbelt and protect yourself during physically dangerous activities by wearing a helmet. Finally, use caution when performing risky tasks to avoid falling.
Preventing Hearing Loss Caused by Diseases
Several medical conditions, viruses and bacterial infections can result in hearing loss. While you may not be able to prevent all medical conditions, several of these illnesses are easily avoidable. The most common diseases that cause hearing loss include mumps, Meniere’s disease, meningitis, syphilis, measles, whooping cough, rubella and tumor growth. You can protect from many of these conditions by using protection during sexual activities, getting all doctor-recommended vaccinations and seeing a physician immediately if you feel ill.