If there was one easy, inexpensive, fool-proof way to effectively prevent hearing loss, would you do it?
Fortunately, there is! Can you guess what that one thing is?
Ear plugs. Ear plugs are cheap, easy to use, and can be purchased anywhere. Since loud noise is the most common cause of hearing loss, and because it is cumulative and irreversible, the best way to avoid hearing loss is to always be prepared with ear plugs!
Young People and Noise-Induced Hearing Loss
Hearing loss is not just for older people! These days young people always have headphones, music or entertainment in their ears… it is estimated that 1.1 billion teens and young adults suffer from noise-induced hearing loss.
Because this type of hearing loss is not yet treatable or reversible, this is a huge concern for everyone. Young people often attend noisy events as well, like clubs, concerts and games, which contribute to these numbers. Even just a few hours of loud music can damage hearing, according to recent studies.
One study in 2015 measured the difference between people at a concert who did or did not wear earplugs. Out of 50 young people, 25 wore earplugs and 25 did not. They tested the hearing and levels of damage between the two groups after 4.5 hours at the concert.
The results were clear: in the 25 people who wore earplugs, 4 showed temporary hearing loss. In the 25 people who didn’t wear earplugs, 22 showed temporary hearing loss. We already know that temporary hearing loss can lead to permanent hearing loss, so this is very telling.
What Can You Do?
Fortunately, noise-induced hearing loss is the easiest kind of hearing loss to prevent! Wearing ear plugs is a cheap, easy effective way to reduce your exposure to loud noise and minimize risks of noise induced hearing loss.
Get in the habit of carrying earplugs with you wherever you go: add a pair or two to the glove box in your car, into your wallet or purse, and anywhere else you normally find yourself. That way you will be prepared whenever a noisy situation arises!
The first step to halting hearing loss and preventing further damage is to recognize your situation. Come in today for a hearing screening and formulate a strategy to train your brain to listen actively and effectively.
Diablo Hearing Services 2301 Camino Ramon, STE 106 San Ramon (925) 394-4646