Hearing loss is more common than many people realize. As with vision loss, it’s something that happens naturally as we get older – with some people experiencing the first signs as early as their 30s and 40s. Other factors can of course speed up this process, leading to more noticeable hearing loss. Just how can you slow down hearing loss as you get older? This post offers a few tips on how to slow down the process.
Protect yourself from loud noise
Exposing your ears to noises above 85 dBA for extended periods of time can damage your ears and speed up hearing loss. It may also cause you to develop tinnitus (ringing in the ears). When in noisy environments, it’s therefore very important to wear ear protection such as ear plugs or ear defenders. This includes work environments like construction sites and airports, as well as leisure events like motor sports events or concerts. Also make sure that you’re not regularly listening to music at a high volume – especially on headphones.
Use a hearing aid
It’s important to go for a hearing test if you think you are experiencing hearing loss. This will allow you to have a hearing aid prescribed, which can help to amplify sounds and allow you to hear more clearly. Wearing a hearing aid with hearing loss can reduce strain on the ears and can slow down further hearing loss. There are many hearing aid styles that you can choose from – including subtle hearing aids that people won’t even notice. An audiologist can walk you through how to use your hearing aid and how to maintain it.
Go for follow-up appointments
Hearing loss may continue while wearing a hearing aid. Some people continue to use the same hearing aid with the same prescription for years, not realizing that their hearing is getting worse. This can result in continued strain to the ears and faster hearing loss – which is why follow-ups matter. Regular hearing tests can help to make sure that your hearing aid is tuned correctly, and that your hearing aid is still working properly.
Don’t ignore persistent ear infections
Most ear infections clear up by themselves within 3 days and don’t cause any lasting damage. Others however can be more persistent and can cause long-term damage. If it’s been three days and the infection has not cleared up, it’s vital that you see a doctor. You may need to be prescribed antibiotics or another form of medicine to help clear up the infection. This could prevent premature hearing loss.
Keep diabetes under control
Did you know that you’re twice as likely to experience premature hearing loss if you have diabetes? High blood sugar levels can damage nerves all around the body – killing off your five senses. This includes our sense of hearing. By keeping diabetes under control, you can prevent damage to your ears. This typically requires plenty of exercise and a strict diet (something that a doctor will have already discussed if you’ve been diagnosed with diabetes).
