Four Important Facts to Know About Hearing Loss

Are you worried that someday you may lose your hearing? If not, then maybe you should be. According to recent data, hearing loss is on the rise all over the world, prompting experts to sound the alarm about an impending hearing loss crisis in the decades to come. But don't panic just yet, because here are four simple facts that everyone should how about hearing loss and how to protect one of your most valuable senses.

Noise-Induced Hearing Loss is Getting Worse

Most hearing loss isn't due to genetics, but to noise-induced hearing loss. As the name implies, this kind of hearing loss occurs when your ears are exposed to excessive sounds for prolonged periods of time. And unfortunately, urbanization and the constant presence of electronics means that the world is getting louder.

Noise Pollution in the Workplace is Dangerous

For working adults, the greatest risk for noise-induced hearing loss is in the workplace. In fact, several professions consistently pose the highest amount of risk, including construction, mining, the military and farming. According to some estimates, as many as 30 million adults in the United States work in environments with hazardous noise levels, which makes hearing protection on the job all the more important.

Hearing Loss Sufferers are Getting Younger

Sadly, it isn't just working adults that are losing their hearing. Thanks to smartphones, tablets and personal music devices, such as MP3 players, Millennials are suffering from hearing loss at staggering rates. In general, any sound over 70 decibels is capable of damaging the sensitive tiny hair cells in your inner ears, and most modern devices are capable of emitting sounds in excess of 100 decibels. So it's easy to see how constantly blaring music, watching movies or playing video games on personal devices could lead to hearing loss.

Noise-Induced Hearing Loss is Preventable

Now for some good news: noise-induced hearing loss is entirely preventable. For starters, the first thing you should do is to be aware of noise level around you. If you work in a noisy environment, wear hearing protection. Similarly, if enjoy loud activities, such as going to concerts, then use plugs to dampen the noise or step away from the action every once in awhile to give your ears a break. Additionally, keep the volume on your personal devices at 60% or lower. And, if you think you might be suffering from hearing loss, go see an audiologist so that you can get a hearing test and, if necessary, begin using some type of assistive device.

The idea of losing your hearing is scary. But as long as you know the facts surrounding hearing loss and minimize your risks, then there's no reason that you shouldn't be able to retain your hearing ability until well into old age.

If you or someone you know would like to learn more about hearing loss and how to treat it, please feel free to schedule a consultation or contact one of our representatives today!