Is There a Way to Prevent Hearing Loss?

Behind high blood pressure and arthritis, hearing loss is the third most common detrimental chronic health condition in the United States. And unfortunately, it’s also one of the most common work-related conditions. Many people who work in construction, warehouses, entertainment, and other industries face occupational noise hazards daily.

But it’s not just people who work in hazardous conditions that are at risk for hearing loss. Anyone exposed to loud noises or who has other risk factors can suffer.

Follow along with Hearing Associates of Las Vegas as we provide recommendations and guidelines for people to reduce their risk of permanent hearing loss. It’s never too early or too late to start protecting one of your most valuable assets: Your hearing!

Why is Prevention Crucial?

Preventing hearing loss is essential as most hearing loss ends up being permanent. As you can imagine, this can seriously impact your quality of life.

• If prolonged hearing loss is left untreated, communication will become more frustrating and cause sufferers to isolate themselves.
• There are connections between hearing loss, mental decline, and heart issues like heart disease and high blood pressure.
• Hearing loss has also been linked to depression.
• Even if sufferers can still hear, sounds and speech are muted. The depth and quality of conversations are lower.
• Tinnitus (rushing, ringing, or roaring in the ears) is often found hand in hand with hearing loss. It can be a very disruptive condition impacting sleep, concentration and can lead to depression or anxiety.
• Hearing loss can cause all-around safety concerns in the home or the workplace. Doing everyday things like driving, going to the movies, or talking on the phone can become difficult or impossible.
• Hearing loss limits your job opportunities, and wages tend to be lower for workers with hearing impairment.

What Can You Do to Prevent Hearing Loss in the Workplace?

Workplace noise exposure is a significant cause of hearing loss. Military personnel, construction workers, landscaping professionals, warehouse workers, and those in the entertainment industry are at high risk.

Here are some ways that employers and workers can do to mitigate workplace hearing loss.

Evaluate noise levels in your workplace.

• If you must raise your voice to talk with someone an arm’s length away, then the noise levels are likely hazardous.
• Using a sound meter or an app like NIOSH Sound Level Meter on your phone, you can determine the exact noise levels.
• If you can’t measure the sound levels yourself, request that your supervisor do so, making sure levels are below 85dB.

Do your best to minimize noise exposure.

• Break up exposure to noise by taking breaks as often as possible. Set a timer to remind you to step away incrementally.
• Seek out ways to reduce the loud noise where it originates by finding ways to muffle exhaust or impact sounds. Sometimes it can be as simple as newer equipment or lubricating machines to reduce friction.
• If possible, isolate the noise source by enclosing it or setting up a wall to shield you and others.
• Sometimes it can simply come down to distancing yourself from the noise source. Move to an acceptable distance to reduce the impact of the noise.
• Personal protective equipment like ear muffs or foam plugs should be worn when working in noisy areas.
• If you have complete control over the noise, as with music, keep it at a safe level, not trying to drown out other noises.

Minimize exposure to chemicals that can impact your hearing.

Chemicals in paints, pesticides, solvents, and cleaners can contribute to hearing loss.

• If possible, use a less- or non-toxic chemical.
• Eye protection, a sleeved shirt, and gloves should be worn.
• Personal protective equipment like a respirator should be worn to prevent inhaling harmful chemicals.
• Be sure to read all chemical safety information before beginning work.

Prevent Hearing Loss at Home

Manage Heart Disease And Diabetes

Fragile parts of your ear can be damaged due to heart disease and high blood pressure.
Getting your cholesterol and blood pressure under control under a doctor’s guidance is essential.

Those who have diabetes are more likely to deal with hearing loss too. Diabetes can damage cells to the mechanisms of the inner ear, much like high blood pressure. Keep blood sugar in the acceptable range.

Limit Smoking, Vaping, Drinking, and Drugs

Research shows that cigarette smoke (even secondhand or in utero) can significantly impact hearing health. Likewise, heavy alcohol use can create a toxic environment in the ear. Vaping is not well-studied, but anecdotal reports link it to sudden hearing loss.

Many over-the-counter and prescription drugs are linked to hearing loss. They range from common over-the-counter medications like aspirin to prescription antibiotics and chemotherapy. Consult your doctor about alternative medications to reduce your risk of hearing loss.

Exercise and Diet

Medical science hasn’t found an instance where exercise isn’t a help. Moving and getting your heart rate up improves blood circulation throughout the body, directly impacting your health. That includes your hearing health.

Many tend to crank up the volume when exercising. This is a common area where hearing damage can occur. Exercise also helps with reducing stress, so safely getting your heart rate up is essential.

Vitamins such as B12 are crucial to healthy hearing. Minerals like potassium and magnesium are also important. Iron deficiency has been known to add to hearing loss, so it’s vital to keep intake at the appropriate level.

Know Your Family History and Genetics

Knowing your genetics and family history won’t directly prevent hearing loss. But it will help to see if you’re at elevated risk. Catching hearing loss early reduces your risk of having it progress into a more severe loss.

Use Earmuffs and Earplugs

Any sound over 85 decibels can cause hearing loss. That’s roughly the sound of pushing a lawnmower. Always use hearing protection like earmuffs and earplugs anytime you’re surrounded by loud noises like fireworks or gunfire. You will reduce your risk of hearing loss and tinnitus.

Preventing hearing loss may seem like common sense, but loud noises are unavoidable in some situations. How you handle that exposure will determine whether you further damage your hearing or remain safe. Contact our hearing professionals at Hearing Associates of Las Vegas for specialized hearing care. We will help you protect your hearing and, if necessary, regain your hearing and your life!