Are you listening to music that is too loud?
A recent poll found that 80% of parents say they are concerned with their children’s use of personal audio technology. Too much exposure to sound sources above 85 decibels can result in hearing loss. Many new technologies such as stereo systems, handheld listening devices and even televisions can produce sound well above the level to be able to cause damage.
What is Hearing Loss?
Hearing loss doesn’t necessarily come happen all at once. It can be either a sudden or a gradual decrease in your ability to hear. Depending on the cause, it can either be mild, severe, temporary or permanent. Many individuals who have hearing loss may not even realize it. It can happen gradually.
How Do I know if I’m Experiencing Hearing Loss?
If you are experiencing any of the following symptoms you should contact a doctor. Common symptoms may include
- Feeling as if your ear is plugged, similar to having water in your ear.
- Difficulty listening to things in your environment such as individuals speaking, a radio or television.
- If you notice that you tend to listen to the television or a stereo at a higher volume then you previously used to.
If these symptoms are left unchecked they can lead to more severe symptoms and conditions such as:
- Ringing of the ears, known as Tinnitus
- Any uncomfortable feelings from irritation to severe pain
- Symptoms of vertigo (feeling as if your surroundings are spinning)
How to Prevent Hearing Loss
A lot of things can lead to hearing damage. Fortunately, it’s not too hard to avoid these issues. Here are some measures you can take to reduce hearing loss:
- Avoid loud noises in your environment such as motorcycles, loud music, or industrial machines.
- When you cannot avoid loud noises in your environment, make sure to wear hearing protection.
- Lower the volume of what you listen to.
- Limit the amount of time that you spend listening to music or television.
- Wear headphones that go completely around or deep inside the ear in order to limit outside noise. By limiting outside sounds it will reduce the need to increase the volume of what you are listening to.
- Schedule an appointment with Madison ENT & Facial Plastic Surgery to discuss the effects of hearing loss and find out if you need to take additional steps to take care of your hearing. Call (212) 213-3339 today to schedule an appointment.