If you’re one of the 7.1% of adults 45 and older who wear hearing aids, you know just how much they can do for people with hearing loss.
They can make it easier to follow along during weekly company meetings, let you stream music and phone calls directly into your device, as well as tune out background noise and listen to your dining companions while out to eat at Brix Wine Café.
Unfortunately, one thing they can’t do is protect your ears from loud noise that could further harm your hearing.
Loud Noise Can Cause Further Hearing Loss
Already having hearing loss does not prevent you from developing further hearing loss. One of the leading causes of hearing loss is prolonged exposure to loud noise. Any sound over 85 decibels has the potential to harm your hearing. The louder the noise, the less time it takes for hearing loss to occur.
A few common activities that can lead to noise-induced hearing loss include:
- Hunting or shooting
- Riding motorcycles or snowmobiles
- Attending concerts or sporting events
- Listening to music at a loud volume on your headphones or earbuds
- Working in loud environments like construction or manufacturing
- Using a leaf blower or lawn mower
Wearing Earplugs With Hearing Aids
Wearing the proper hearing protection when engaging in loud activities can help keep your ears safe while still letting you do what you need or want to do. Earplugs are a common hearing protection choice for many because they are effective, and you can find them easily online or in most local stores.
Unfortunately, people with hearing aids cannot wear earplugs at the same time. Some choose to take their hearing aids out in place of earplugs. However, that makes it harder for them to hear potentially important sounds. Others choose to leave their hearing aids in and forgo hearing protection, risking further damage.
Thankfully, you don’t have to decide between one of these two options! Instead, you can use passive earmuffs, which cover your whole ear and fit over your hearing aids comfortably.
Keep The Volume Down When Listening To Headphones
When it comes to listening to music with headphones or earbuds, you don’t need additional hearing protection; you just need to be mindful of the volume. Make sure you don’t have the volume up too high or are listening for too long without giving your ears a break.
If you are unsure about the volume level, many smartphones have health apps that can track that information for you and let you know if you’re reaching harmful levels.
For more information or to schedule an appointment with a hearing specialist, call Hearing Advancement Center today.
