We lose about 0.5 percent of our hearing capacity every year. This means that we lose about five percent of our hearing every 10 years. Age-related hearing loss can be very frustrating. As our hearing begins to fade, we may find it is more difficult to complete work, listen to the media or have conversations with our friends and family. Hearing loss can cause more than just difficulty hearing and mental health problems like anxiety, stress, and depression.

While age-related hearing loss is generally unavoidable, there are a few different things that you can do to promote healthy hearing. By following these tips from the hearing specialists at Hearing Group, you can reduce the effect of age-related hearing loss.

Visit a Hearing Specialist

A local hearing specialist will give you a hearing test to assess your ears’ physical and functional health. Even if you don’t realize it, your hearing ability is constantly changing. Everyone should get their hearing tested at least once after turning 21. After that, people without hearing loss should have a hearing test about every ten years until they turn 50, then every three years after that. Those who do have hearing loss should visit their local hearing specialist at least once per year, though your specialist will be able to recommend a better schedule.

By visiting Hearing Group, the hearing experts will be able to examine your hearing health and determine if there are any signs of hearing loss. Then, if you suffer from hearing loss, they will find the right hearing aid solution for you.

Use Earplugs When Needed

Typically, more than 85-decibel sounds can potentially cause hearing loss. Just for reference, 85 decibels is the approximate volume of a noisy restaurant, traffic, or even a lawnmower. A concert generally has a decibel value of 120. Using earplugs can help soften the harm of excessive noise. In most cases, noise-induced hearing loss is permanent. This means you will want to do what you can to avoid possible damage.

Avoid Common Hearing Health Hazards

Our ears can become “fatigued” when exposed to loud noises for long periods. When using headphones, audiologists recommend a 60/60 rule. This means you should limit your headphone listening to 60 minutes per day at 60 percent volume. You can listen for longer if you lower the volume level. It is also recommended to use over-the-ear headphones rather than earbuds because earbuds are hazardously close to the eardrum.

Suppose you are exposed to excessively loud noises without adequate hearing protection. In that case, it is recommended that you let your hearing rest and recover for approximately 16 hours after being exposed to potentially damaging sound levels.

Control Your Stress

Did you know that stress is one of the most common causes of tinnitus and other hearing issues? There has been a strong correlation between the presence of stress and tinnitus. Unfortunately, stress and tinnitus have a circle effect where each can worsen the other. Take time to relax, try meditation, or exercise. These will help you reduce your general levels of stress.

Look After Your Health

Keeping yourself fit doesn’t just keep you healthy, but it also helps to look after your hearing health. Any cardio exercise that targets the blood flow means blood is pumping around your body, and more blood circulates your auditory system. This healthy blood flow helps the auditory system stay healthy and continue working.

As well as links between heart disease and hearing loss, high blood pressure can also damage the mechanisms inside your ear, which increases the chances of developing hearing loss. Exercising regularly will make you feel better and ensure you hear better.

Be Careful with Your Ears

There are many parts to your ears, especially your eardrum. It is easy to damage but difficult to repair. Q-Tips or cotton swabs are popular for cleaning your eardrum. Although cotton swabs are fairly soft, your ears are delicate, and they are easy to scratch. Water is another common hazard for your ears. After swimming or taking a bath, be sure to dry your ears gently.

Want the best hearing care available? Book a hearing test with Hearing Group and let us help look after your hearing health.