How To Protect Your Ears From Hearing Loss

Your ears are more delicate than you think, and excessive noise and other factors can damage them over time. Whether you have a family history of hearing loss or not, it is very important to start taking better care of your ears. Here is some helpful advice on how to protect your ears from hearing loss:

Protect Your Ears in Loud Environments

Although it is best to stay away from loud environments all the time, it is not always possible. For example, you may have to work in a loud factory five days a week. When you do have to be in a loud environment, it is wise to cover up your ears with earmuffs. They will bring the loud sounds down and protect your ears from damage.

Stop Smoking

Hearing loss is yet another good reason to put down the cigarette. The chemicals in cigarettes can tighten the blood vessels in your ears, which can damage your hearing. Quitting this habit can be very challenging on your own, so you should ask your physician for help.

Look at Your Medications

The medication you take every day could have a negative effect on your hearing. Medications that increase the risk of hearing loss include loop diuretics for high blood pressure, certain antibiotics, cancer drugs and aspirin, according to WebMD. If you have to take one of these medicines on a regular basis, you should talk to your doctor about alternatives.

Be More Careful When Removing Earwax

Wax in your ears can definitely be annoying, but you must remove it properly. If you attempt to remove this wax with a cotton swab, for example, the wax may get pushed further in your ear canal. Invest in an at-home irrigation kit to get rid of earwax.

Do not Listen to Your Music So Loudly

When one of your favorite songs comes on your playlist, it can be tempting to turn the volume up. However, listening to your music too loudly can do a number on your hearing. If you can't hear shouting over your music, do your ears a favor and turn down the volume.

If you follow these helpful tips, you will be less likely to experience hearing problems later on. However, you should still get your hearing tested every year. If your doctor finds signs of hearing loss during the test, he or she can suggest the appropriate treatment options.

Contact a group like Audiologists Northwest to learn more.