5 Ways To Protect Your Hearing

It is easy to take your hearing for granted. You may think that your hearing will last forever and unknowingly do things that damage your ears. If you do not start taking extra good care of your hearing right now, you run the risk of losing this sense in the future. Here are five effective ways to protect your hearing:

Do not Listen to Your Music Too Loudly

When you really love a song, it is tempting to turn up the volume very high. However, listening to your music too loudly can damage your eardrums and increase your risk of hearing loss in the future. If you can't hear someone yelling over your music, it is time to turn the volume down.

Do not Clean Your Ears With Cotton Swabs

Removing excess wax from your ears with a cotton swab might seem harmless, but it can actually do more damage than you think. Sticking a cotton swab directly in your ear can hurt your ear drum, putting your hearing at risk. If you have a lot of wax in your ears, consider using an ear wax removal solution.

Keep Water Out of Your Ears

It is important to always keep your ears dry. If there is excess moisture in your ears, it can lead to an infection that can affect your hearing later on. Do not forget to dry your ears with with a towel after you get finished swimming or taking a bath.

Protect Your Ears in Loud Environments

Exposing yours ears to loud noises for prolonged periods of time can cause a lot of damage. If you are in a loud environment, like a factory or concert, remember to protect your ears with earplugs. 

Consider Your Medications

There are certain medications out there that can increase your risk of hearing loss, such as loop diuretics and Aspirin. If you take one of these medications on a regular basis, pay attention to any changes in your hearing. If you notice any changes, make an appointment with your doctor right away. He or she can determine if you should continue to take the medicine.

It is scary to think about losing your hearing, but it does not have to be in your future. If you follow these helpful tips, you can keep your hearing in good shape. Do not forget to visit your doctor every year for a hearing checkup. If something does happen to your hearing, an audiologist can help with a hearing aid fitting.