Tips for Healthy Hearing

Hearing loss is one of the most common health issues that people live with today. It is also a condition that many people are at risk of experiencing. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), over 1 billion people globally are at high risk of developing hearing loss. Hearing loss not only affects hearing but also communication, relationships, social life, overall health, and wellness. This highlights the importance of practicing safety measures that can protect hearing health. Integrating the following strategies into your everyday life can help prevent impaired hearing, supporting your hearing health adn wellness.  

1. Reduce loud noise exposure. Loud noise is a common cause of hearing loss. One time or consistent exposure to loud noise can impair the sensory cells in the inner ear. This prevents these cells from effectively processing soundwaves, resulting in the brain receiving less auditory information which causes hearing loss. Many of us are exposed to hazardous levels of noise – 22 million people are exposed to loud noise in the workplace, musicians are 4 times more likely to experience hearing loss due to loud noise, and listening to audio using headphones and earbuds is another common way people are exposed to loud noise. 

There are many ways you can reduce your exposure to loud noise. This includes maintaining lower volume settings on your electronic devices, avoiding noisy settings especially during peak hours, choosing quieter places, driving with the windows rolled up to reduce environmental noise, and taking alternate routes to avoid construction sites and traffic. 

2. Wear hearing protection. Noise induced hearing loss is completely preventable. Another great way you can protect your hearing and reduce your exposure to loud noise is by wearing hearing protection. This includes headphones, earbuds, and earmuffs which all provide the ears with a physical barrier; reducing the amount of loud noise you absorb. These items are portable, allowing you to easily access them when moving through a space that is noisier.   

3. Boost intake of nutrients. Numerous studies show that there is a link between diet and hearing health. Research shows that practicing healthier dietary patterns can reduce the risk of hearing loss. There are various nutrients that support hearing health and the various components that are involved in the process of absorbing sound. Nutrients such as magnesium, potassium, zinc, and folate support the cells, nerves, and auditory pathways that are part of how sound is absorbed and processed. You can increase your intake of these nutrients by integrating more plant based foods like vegetables and fruits into your daily diet and reducing processed foods. 

4. Prioritize care for health conditions. Having specific health conditions like diabetes, hypertension, osteoporosis, and heart disease can increase the risk of experiencing hearing loss. If you have any of these health issues, it is important to prioritize care for them. This includes taking the medication that is prescribed and following any regimens outlined by your doctor. 

5. Increase physical activity. Exercise is another great way you can support your hearing health. Physical activity boosts blood flow which supports all the many components of the auditory system. There are simple ways you can increase your physical activity including: taking a daily walk, stretching, and finding a physical activity or hobby you enjoy doing – golfing, biking, water aerobics etc. 

6. Eliminate hearing loss triggers. Studies show that smoking and drinking are behaviors that can increase the risk of hearing loss. Active ingredients – nicotine and alcohol – can impact blood vessels and blood flow in places like the ears which impacts the process of hearing. It is important to reduce or eliminate consumption which can support healthier hearing. 

7. Test hearing regularly. Another healthy hearing habit is to get your hearing tested regularly. Getting your hearing tested annually allows you to track your hearing health. This enables you to identify any changes you may experience early on. Addressing symptoms early can significantly help your transition into better hearing health. 

Practicing these habits can support your hearing health and reduce your risk of developing hearing loss. Contact us today to learn more about how you can protect your hearing health adn to schedule an appointment for a hearing consultation. We look forward to helping you prioritize your hearing health and wellness.