It’s no secret that hearing loss is a common condition that affects many people as they age. But you may not know that several types of noises can contribute to your hearing loss in the future. For instance, did you know that there are everyday noises that we often overlook but can contribute to your hearing loss in the future? Loud noises from concerts, firearms, or machinery can all cause damage to your ears, but so can everyday noises like the sound of your lawnmower or even a conversation in a crowded room.
This is because when we are constantly exposed to noise, it begins to take its toll on our hearing over time. The longer we are exposed to these loud and consistent sounds, the more damage it does to our ears and the more likely we will experience hearing loss down the road. With that in mind, knowing what activities can risk your hearing can help protect your ears in the long run, allowing you to preserve your hearing health for years to come.
What are the Usual Noises You Hear that can Lead to Hearing Loss?
1. Watching a Sports Game (90-140 dB)
Many noises can lead to hearing loss, and watching a sports game is one of them. The noise level at a typical sports game ranges from 90 to 140 dB, which is well above the safe limit for hearing. This can cause long-term damage to your hearing, and it’s essential to take steps to protect yourself from this noise.
One way to protect yourself is by wearing earplugs or earmuffs at a sports game. These will help reduce the amount of noise that reaches your ears, and they’ll also help protect your ears from the cold weather. If you don’t want to wear earplugs or earmuffs, try sitting as far away from the speakers as possible. This will help reduce the amount of noise that reaches your ears.
It’s also important to take breaks from the noise every so often. During these breaks, try listening to some quiet music or just relaxing without any sound whatsoever. This will give your ears a chance to rest and recover from all the noise they’ve been exposed to.
2. Woodworking, Metalwork, and Other Similar Home Projects (90-112 dB)
Woodworking, metalwork, and other similar home projects can produce noise levels up to 90-112 dB. This is significantly louder than the average conversation. Prolonged exposure to these types of sounds can cause damage to your hearing over time and lead to hearing loss.
If you experience any ringing or buzzing in your ears after being exposed to loud noises, then you may be suffering from hearing loss. If this is the case, it is important to see a doctor as soon as possible to prevent the condition from worsening.
3. Chores Involving the Use of a Gas-Powered Lawn Mower, Leaf Blower, or Snow Blower (85-100 dB)
At 85-100 dB, this type of noise is extremely loud and can cause long-term damage if you are exposed to it for an extended period of time. Leaf blowers and snow blowers also produce noise levels in this range, so it’s important to take precautions when using them. Wearing ear protection can help reduce the amount of noise that reaches your ears and minimise the risk of hearing loss.
The Bottom Line: The Importance of Protecting Your Hearing as Your Grow Older
As you grow older, protecting your hearing is more important than ever. As you age, your ability to hear clearly and sharply diminishes, making everyday activities like talking on the phone or listening to music more challenging. The good news is that by taking a few simple precautions, you can help safeguard your hearing for years to come.
One of the best ways to protect your hearing is to wear earplugs or earmuffs when exposed to loud noises. Whether at a concert, working in a factory, or using power tools in the garage, always make sure to use some noise protection. If you can’t avoid being around loud noises, try to take breaks every hour or so so that your ears can rest.
Another critical way to protect your hearing is by getting regular checkups from an audiologist. An audiologist can test your hearing and identify any problems early on, making enough time for treatment before any severe damage occurs. If you do have any issues with your hearing, be sure to follow the audiologist’s instructions carefully so that you can maximise your healing potential.
Are You Looking for a Hearing Aid Centre in Australia?
If you are looking for quality Australian hearing services, Country Hearing Care is a perfect choice. We offer an extensive selection of high-quality products and services, and our team is dedicated to providing personalised care that meets your unique needs. Contact us today to schedule a consultation appointment!
