Many people in America suffer from hearing loss. It is estimated that 30% of people over the age of 65 have hearing loss. This staggering statistic shows just how prevalent hearing loss is in our society and why it is more important than ever to take steps to avoid hearing-related problems while living in Clearwater.
Here are some of the daily habits that may impact your hearing health and could lead to an increased risk of hearing loss in your life.
Smoking
The wide-ranging health impacts of smoking are well-reported and often talked about. However, if you were asked about the most common risks associated with smoking, you might not immediately think about hearing loss. People who smoke are 70% more likely to develop hearing loss and are at increased risk of other health problems like cancer and heart disease. Smoking can negatively affect the neurotransmitters that enable your hearing and may also lead to tinnitus – a common and stubborn problem that causes ringing sounds in the ears. Smokers may also become more sensitive to sounds, which lowers the threshold for damaging their hearing further because of loud noises.
High-Risk Jobs
Some jobs may create an increased risk of developing hearing loss and other hearing problems. These jobs may include those where there are consistent and loud noises, such as nightclubs, theatres, and other venues where music is played at loud volumes. It may also include environments like construction sites, factories, and forms of transport. Train engineers, miners, and construction workers – to give a few examples – may be at increased risk of hearing loss because of the constant loud noises to which their ears are exposed. Employers should take steps to protect the health and well-being of their employees in these settings, and employees should hold them to account and push for increased protective equipment to ensure good hearing health.
Listening to Music
There are only a few situations today where you will not see anybody wearing headphones or earphones. Whether on public transport, at the gym or walking to the office, listening to music and other audio remains a popular pastime for many. However, listening to music at loud volumes can damage your hearing and lead to hearing loss. You should aim to keep your volume level at 50-60% rather than turning your music all the way up to the maximum. Taking these precautions when listening to music – especially through headphones and earphones – can help you to reduce the risk of developing hearing loss or damaging your ears in later life.
Failing to Go for Hearing Tests
Regular hearing tests can help you to look after your hearing and prevent hearing loss now and in the future. A hearing test can help you to identify problems in the early stages so that you can take the necessary steps to prevent them from getting worse. It can give you peace of mind and a point of contact to discuss your hearing concerns or find the right solutions to any problems you are currently facing. While it might seem challenging to find the time to book regular hearing tests, this should be a priority for anyone trying to look after their hearing health in a better way.
Do You Want to Look After Your Hearing More Effectively?
If you want to take steps to look after your hearing more effectively, there are multiple things you can do. As well as changes to your lifestyle habits to avoid an increased risk of hearing loss, you should also ensure you make time for regular hearing tests and screenings. Contact Countryside Hearing Aid Services in Clearwater to find out more today.
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