When Are You Most at Risk From a Hearing Loss?
No one wants to acquire a hearing loss, and most people believe they’re doing all they can to stop one from taking place. But over 44 million Americans currently have a form of hearing loss and that figure is predicted to rise to 75 million by 2060. Many people aren’t aware that witnessing moderately loud noises can lead to permanent hearing damage over time. As a result, many are taking undue risks, in their lifestyle choices and daily activities, that can easily be avoided. These are the three key situations where you could be harming your hearing.
Hearing heavy machinery
Work environments that involve heavy machinery are one of the clear places where you can develop a hearing loss. The consistent whirring and stomping sounds of mechanical devices, even if they’re just above a dangerous volume level, can slowly impact your hearing over time. The same risks apply to those who regularly mow their lawns, trim hedgerows, or use power tools on the weekends.
If you find yourself in these situations regularly, please talk to our specialists about the fantastic hearing protection that is available, which can stop a long-term hearing issue.
Going out to concerts
For many people across Los Angeles, music is a way of life. But importantly, you could be threatening the integrity of your hearing every time you go out to a concert. We know that young people are especially at risk from acquiring a hearing loss at loud live events. This is backed up in recent research — with the University of Manchester, UK, revealing that young adults who engage in noisy recreational activities often have early hearing loss symptoms.
At South Bay Hearing, we can offer custom-fitted protection for musicians and music lovers, so you can receive that fantastic live concert experience without compromising your hearing.
Wearing earbuds
Everyone uses songs, podcasts, and the radio to spend a bit of time away from the intensity of the world — whether you’re out jogging, traveling to work, or enjoying some time at home. But earbuds can be very damaging to your hearing when you raise the volume above a certain level. Your ears will slowly get accustomed to a higher threshold of sounds, meaning you’ll need more amplification to distinguish different noises.
Our doctors of audiology recommend that you don’t turn the volume up on your smartphones or tablets above halfway, as any sounds above 80 decibels can do long-term damage. And if you do, they recommend that you take a break after 15 to 20 minutes, as this will help stop your ears from being harmed.
Are you concerned about a hearing loss or know someone else who is? Contact the team at South Bay Hearing, and they’ll be happy to help you move forward!
