PROTECT YOUR HEARING

PROTECT YOUR HEARING
Did you know that some loud noises can cause hearing loss? According to the Cleveland Clinic, the loss can be caused instantly by sudden very loud sounds (like a gunshot or a firecracker) or by gradual damage (like listening through headphones or riding a motorcycle). It can be so gradual that months or even years may pass before you notice the symptoms. Do you have a tendency to speak loudly, or a habit of turning up the volume on the TV? Do you sometimes miss some things said in a conversation, especially when the speaker is not facing you? If so, you are likely to reach the point of wanting a hearing aid or of getting a cochlear implant. These remedies are appropriate after you have been the victim of noise-induced hearing loss, and the damage has been done.

But you can play it smart and prevent the loss. Here’s how. Carry ear plugs with you to easily pop in place whenever you anticipate or encounter a noisy situation. And definitely schedule an appointment with your primary physician and/or an audiologist. Either that, or start learning to use signs for communication!