Hearing loss is more common than most people realize. The Hearing Loss Association of America (HLAA) state that 48 million people in the US report some hearing loss. For those aged 65+, approximately 1 in 3 have a hearing loss.
The most common reason for hearing loss is a gradual loss as we grow older. This is known as presbycusis. About ⅓ of people in the U.S. between 65 and 75 are experiencing some level of presbycusis, and around 1 in 2 individuals over 75 are experiencing some degree of hearing impairment.
If you have been diagnosed with hearing loss, you probably want to prevent it from getting worse. We’re taking a closer look at 4 ways to keep your hearing loss from getting worse.
4 Ways to Keep Your Hearing Loss from Getting Worse
Most cases of hearing loss are unfortunately permanent. In a few cases, hearing loss may be temporary. However, for many Americans diagnosed with a hearing impairment, there is no medical treatment to restore their full hearing.
That doesn’t mean, however, that your hearing is going to get progressively worse. There are ways to keep your hearing loss from worsening. These tips can help you protect your hearing and potentially prevent further hearing loss.
Minimize Your Exposure to Loud Sounds
The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) mandates that people should not work in loud environments of 85 decibels or louder for more than 8 hours without hearing protection.
To help you compare, most people converse at 60-65 decibels and the average garbage disposal, factory, and dishwasher all clock in around 80 decibels. So, as the volume in your environment increases, try to limit the time you are exposed to the noise. Remember to also protect your ears. Learn more about Noise Induced Hearing Loss here.
Protect Yourself During Hobbies
If you participate in hobbies or sports that involve loud noise (such as hunting or shooting), be sure to use ear protection even during recreational outings. A gunshot can range from 140-190 decibels depending on the weapon, and its proximity to your ears can cause immediate damage.
Skip the Earbuds
Rather than using in-ear headphones, opt for ones that sit on your ear. Earbuds place an exceptional burden on your ears (of approximately 100 decibels) and can do so continuously for virtually as long as your smartphone battery lasts.
It’s easy to lose track of time when listening to music, and ensuring that you’re not piping loud tunes straight to your inner ear can help you to prevent unnecessary damage. Splurge and get the best studio-quality noise-canceling headphones you can–they’re an investment you won’t regret.
Wear Your Hearing Devices
If your hearing healthcare specialist has recommended that you use hearing aid devices, use them. Hearing aids and other assistive listening devices can help prevent further hearing loss, as well as offer a myriad of other health benefits.
The above tips can help you prevent your hearing loss from worsening. However, the most important thing that you can do is to stay on top of regular hearing assessments. This ensures that any changes to your hearing are caught early.
Need Help? Contact Us Today!
At Anderson Audiology, our hearing specialists are on hand to offer you a hearing assessment. Call us today on 702-997-2964. Alternatively, click here to request an appointment online.