Our ears do a lot for us, big and small. From figuring out where sounds are located to keeping us safe, they do a lot of heavy lifting! Unfortunately, loud sounds can damage our ears and start making their jobs harder. That’s why it’s our job to keep our ears safe and prevent hearing loss by using hearing protection.
Hearing loss related to noise can occur in a variety of ways. Lots of people know heavy machinery can be damaging to our ears, but many don’t know that even fun loud sounds can damage our hearing over time. Some common causes of preventable hearing loss include:
- Heavy machinery
- Lawn equipment
- Firearms
- Fireworks
- Concerts
- Noisy restaurants
The good news is there are multiple types of hearing protection, and they all have pros and cons! Some common versions of hearing protection include (but aren’t limited to):
Soft Earplugs:
These are very versatile all-around earplugs that are very easy to bring anywhere at any time! However, this style is the most likely to not fit well in the ear and cause sound to leak past. While marketed as “one size fits all,” every ear is different, and some ears may not be compatible with this style of hearing protection.
Over-the-Ear Earmuffs:
These are a much more flexible option in terms of fitting. They will fit most individuals and are more likely to be accurate to their noise protection rating. However, depending on the reason for the need for hearing protection, they can be bulky and irritating if needing to be worn in adverse conditions for extended periods of time.
Custom-Made Hearing Protection:
These are the best of both worlds. Custom made for your ears, the fit will be perfect every time, ensuring comfort and adequate protection for all your needs!
In addition to hearing protection usage, many lifestyle actions can impact our hearing. Here are a few lifestyle habits and hearing protection tips:
- Try to avoid excessive noise when possible
- Attend annual hearing evaluations to monitor your hearing status
- Wear hearing protection when in noisy environments
- Seek hearing healthcare as soon as you notice any change in hearing
In conclusion, there are many options when it comes to finding the right hearing protection for you! Hearing protection can save your hearing from unnecessary damage and is extremely important for long-term hearing health.
If you or someone you know wants to discuss hearing protection, reach out to an audiologist near you!
