With 2020 firmly in the rearview mirror, now is the time to take stock of what we want this new year to bring. And if last year taught us anything, it’s to not take our health for granted. Protect your hearing this year by making, and sticking to, the resolutions below.
Get a Hearing Test
More than 48 million Americans experience hearing loss, but only 20% seek treatment. Untreated hearing loss can seriously impact your mental, physical and emotional health and well-being. Determining your type and degree of hearing loss is the first step toward seeking treatment.
An audiological evaluation consists of a series of tests, each designed to measure a different aspect of your hearing. Depending on your unique needs, you may complete any or all of the following:
- Pure tone testing
- Bone conduction testing
- Speech testing
- Tympanometry
- Acoustic reflex testing
- Auditory brainstem response
- Otoacoustic emissions
Wear Hearing Protection
Exposure to a single loud sound, such as an explosion, or repeated exposure to loud sounds over an extended period of time can lead to noise-induced hearing loss. The louder the sound, the less time it takes to damage your hearing.
Sounds are measured in decibels (dB), and anything over 85 dB can cause damage to the delicate hair cells within the inner ear. In order to understand what sources of noise may be dangerous, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention put together the following list:
- Normal conversation – 60 dB
- Gas-powered lawnmower – 85 dB
- Approaching train – 100 dB
- Rock concert – 110 dB
- Sirens – 120 dB
- Firecrackers – 140 dB
Disposable earplugs can be purchased from any pharmacy in order to provide hearing protection in a pinch. The best way to protect your hearing is by wearing earplugs made from a mold of your ear. This ensures they fit well and provide a superior level of protection.
Invest in Quality Headphones
Many people listen to their music through headphones. If you are wearing headphones while walking around the Eastport Plaza Shopping Center, you will have to turn the volume way up to be able to hear your music over the background noise. This puts the safety of your ears at risk.
Noise-canceling headphones can block out distracting background noise and allow you to listen at a reasonable volume.
To learn more about protecting your hearing in 2021 or to schedule an appointment with an audiologist, contact Mt. Hood ENT today.