The ear is a very vital body organ. If it is damaged, then we will have issues with hearing. This is why a lot of awareness is created on the need to protect our hearing, and the organ of hearing itself. Also, we raise awareness about the prevalence of ear disorders, and hearing loss, the need for timely diagnosis, and the best choices for your hearing. It is not good to wait until things have gone away before you start caring for your ears. Here are nine tested and proven ways to take care of your ears, and your hearing.
Make use of earplugs when in a noisy environment
An average of 15 percent of Americans suffer from hearing loss due to frequent exposure to loud leisure environments or loud work environments.
Concerts, clubs, lawnmowers, chainsaws and other such loud noises that causes you to shout at the top of your voice before the next person can hear you all create dangerous sound levels. In such cases, it is best to shield your ears from the loud noise, and this is where earplugs come in. they are cheap and can be obtained easily. You may even consult your ear healthcare provider to provide you with a pair custom fitted for your ears.
You may also use music earplugs. This has filters that permits the wearer to listen to conversations and music simultaneously, but will minimize the harmful level of the sound while retaining the original sound quality as closely as possible.
Reduce the volume
The World Health Organization has declared that at least 1.1 billion teenagers globally are at risk for hearing loss due to wrong and unsafe usage of hearing devices.
If you are used to listening to music from earbuds or headphones, then you can have your ears protected by adopting the 60/60 rule. What does this mean? Simply, it implies that you listen to music from your hearing device at no more than 60 percent volume for only one hour (60 minutes) each day.
Earbuds are more dangerous than other devices. The reason is because they fit next to the eardrums. A headphone is more preferable.
Always remember that loud music, whether it is played through the headphones or not constitutes a risk for noise-induced hearing loss. If you are at a party, or hosting one (as is usually done in the summer season), endeavor to keep the music at a volume that will allow party attenders to converse without having to shout.
Always allow your ears some recovery time
If your ears are exposed to loud noise for a very long time, then you will have to give it time to recover. If possible, step out of the noise zone every five minutes so as to give your ears some rest. Studies have shown that the ears require at least 16 hours of quiet to recover from one night of exposure to loud sounds.
Refrain from using cotton swabs in your ears
Most people are used to cleaning their ears with cotton swabs. However, it is pertinent to state here that this is not advisable. Frankly, having some wax in your ears is normal and also important. For one, the ears have the ability to clean itself. The wax in the ears prevents dust from getting into the canal. Also, when you insert objects into your ears, you risk damaging important and fragile organs like the ear drum.
If you’ve got a lot of wax in your eardrum, then you can wipe the ear canal with a damp towel. You may also use ear wax removal solution over the course of some few nights. This melts the wax, allowing it to flow out on its own. Nevertheless, the best option is to seek the opinion of a professional. You can find a qualified ENT doctor here.
Only take prescribed medications
Hearing loss may be caused by some medications such as non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (ibuprofen, aspirin, and naproxen). If you feel that some of the medications you are taking may contribute to hearing loss, then do not hesitate to consult your physician.
Always ensure your ears are dry
If the moisture content of your ear is higher than normal, then bacteria can grow in the ear, and cause damage to the ear canal. This may result in swimmer’s ear or other types of ear infections. Always make sure that you dry your ears gently after swimming or having a bath. If you feel that there is water in your ear, tilt your head to one side and tug on your ear lobe lightly to coax out the water.
You can also maintain the dryness of your ears by using custom-fit swimmers ear plugs, which prevent entry of water into the ear canal. They are suitable for both kids and adults. To have one fitted, please make an appointment with your health professional.
Be moving
Not everyone is aware that exercise is beneficial to the ear. But it is true. Cardio exercises such as running, walking, and even cycling enhances the flow of blood to all parts of the body, and that includes the ears. This keeps the internal parts of the ears healthy and working to their highest potential.
Take your safety seriously. Be sure to put on a helmet while cycling. If you fall, and probably hit your head, then your hearing may be harmed by a concussion.
Manage stress levels
Studies have shown that tinnitus may be caused by anxiety and stress. High level of stress causes the body to move into the fight or flight mode which is an instinct-based reaction that fills the blood with adrenaline to help the subject either fight, or flee from danger. This process pressurizes the flow of blood, the nerves, body heat and all. It is believed that this stress and pressure can ascend to the inner ear and contribute to symptoms of tinnitus.
Go for regular checkups
Go for regular hearing screenings. Hearing loss in many cases develops gradually. Hence, it is recommended that you have regular hearing consultations with a qualified healthcare professional. With this, you will be able to identify the signs of hearing loss and take immediate action.
It is best that you take action immediately because hearing loss, when untreated leads to a low quality of life, harms your relationships, and leads to other health concerns like dementia, cardiovascular ailments, and depression.
You need to find an ENT doctor close to you? Visit www.doctena.com. You’ll be glad you did.
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