Even though the field of audiology has achieved remarkable advancements in hearing aid technology and identifying indicators of hearing loss, there are simple hearing care measures you can do on your own that promote healthy hearing. Read on to learn how you can improve your hearing and understand the different causes of hearing problems.
Protect your ears from loud noises
One of the most frequent causes of hearing loss is excessive noise, but the great news is that it is also one of the easiest to avoid. If you are going to a place or an event that would expose you to loud noises, make sure to use hearing protection to prevent hearing damage.
For hearing loss brought on by noise, there is neither a medical nor surgical cure. Hair cells that are damaged do not regrow. You should make every effort to preserve your hearing. You should take action to prevent your hearing loss from growing worse if you already have it.
Use appropriate hearing protection
Why is it crucial to safeguard your hearing? Loud noises can harm your inner ear’s delicate structures, leading to tinnitus and noise-induced hearing loss (NIHL). Your hearing can be damaged faster by dangerously loud sounds.
The ears have very sensitive hair cells inside that can get damaged over time. Loud noises can prematurely harm these hair cells over time. When that occurs, there will be a problem in sending sounds to the brain. Once these cells are damaged, they cannot be repaired or regenerated, which results in lifelong hearing loss.
Make it a habit to use ear protection (earplugs or noise-canceling headphones) if you’re in a noisy environment.
Don’t clean your ears with cotton swabs and other tiny items
Old earwax will naturally fall out as a result of chewing, yawning, and other jaw movements. Using cotton swabs to clean your ears may push the wax farther into the ear canal. You might potentially severely harm your eardrum or the delicate skin within your ear canal.
One issue is that there is no other way for the earwax to be swept out of the ear if you push it deeper within. Cotton swabs can also result in hearing loss and damaged eardrums.
Even though some ear wax is healthy, too much of it can lead to discomfort and mild hearing loss. Make an appointment with an audiologist if you believe you have an ear wax obstruction. Never try to remove the wax by yourself as you run the risk of injuring your eardrum or the delicate lining of your ear canal.
Keep your ears clean and dry
Excessive moisture can result in wax accumulation and ear infections, both of which can impair hearing. After swimming or taking a shower, gently pat your ears dry with a clean cloth or towel to stop more water from getting inside the ear canal.
You run the danger of acquiring swimmer’s ear, surfer’s ear, or another sort of infection if you don’t keep your ears dry after taking a bath or swimming.
Get your hearing tested regularly
Regular hearing exams can help you increase your chances of regaining normal hearing by identifying early indicators of hearing loss. Routine hearing tests also give audiologists a baseline of your hearing capabilities versus your age and make identifying significant changes in your hearing easier.
Can you naturally heal your hearing?
Unfortunately, there is currently no natural way to reverse hearing loss. In most cases, intervention is necessary to restore hearing. This usually involves hearing aids or cochlear implants.
Don’t hesitate to see an audiologist for professional advice on how to improve your hearing or address signs of hearing loss.
Audiologists in Cary, NC
Cary Audiology has professional audiologists ready to provide expert hearing care services, from hearing tests, hearing aid selection, to hearing aid fitting.
Schedule an appointment at our clinic today!
