As the leaves begin to change, you should
consider changing your habits for hearing loss prevention, too. Several autumn
activities can cause noise-induced hearing loss without proper hearing
protection, so whether you’re in Richmond, Georgetown, Frankfort, Mt. Sterling,
Paris, Cynthiana, Lexington or Danville, it’s vital to protect your ears this
autumn! Kentucky residents of all ages should take extra precautions to protect
against hearing loss during fun fall activities. Here are some great tips to
keep in mind this season.
Use Earplugs
to Prevent Hearing Loss
Any time you may be exposed to loud sounds,
wear earplugs to prevent hearing loss and tinnitus. Disposable earplugs are
readily available and will allow you to hear music and conversations while
blocking dangerously loud noise. Custom ear protection crafted from personalized
earmolds will perfectly fit the unique contours of your ears, guaranteeing a
snug, proper fit and dependable protection from hearing loss and other auditory problems.
Avoid
the Noise
Take steps to limit the length of time you
spend in loud environments. When participating in noisy activities in Richmond
and throughout the great Kentucky outdoors, make sure to give yourself occasional
breaks to let your ears recuperate from the risky sounds that cause hearing
loss.
Turn
It Down
When you listen to music, play video games,
watch a film at a Central Kentucky movie theater or watch TV, keep the volume
turned down as low as possible. Headphones are particularly dangerous for your
ears. Remember, if others around you can hear what you’re listening to, it’s
too loud and may result in permanent hearing loss.
Look
Out for Leaf Blowers
Leaf blowers are everywhere in Central
Kentucky once fall is in full swing. Despite its usefulness, this equipment represents
an extreme noise hazard and can cause hearing loss. The sound produced by some
leaf blowers at close range can cause permanent sensorineural hearing loss in just
15 minutes. If you aren’t willing to hire a professional landscaper to clean up
your leaves, consider replacing older models with a new leaf blower that offers
lower sound output. You can see the decibel levels on most labels. Even the
quietest leaf blowers available can cause eventual hearing loss, so always wear
quality or custom earplugs when you do yard work to protect yourself form
hearing loss.
Understand
the Risks of Football Season
Throughout Richmond, Georgetown, Frankfort,
Mt. Sterling, Paris, Cynthiana, Lexington, Danville and the rest of Kentucky,
football fans are gearing up for another fun season. There’s no better way to
support your team than cheering wildly with fellow fans at a live event, but
there’s also no better way to get permanent hearing loss. Any sound over 85 dB
should be considered potentially dangerous, and noise over 120 dB is known to
cause instant, permanent sensorineural hearing loss. In 2014, Kansas City
Chiefs fans set a record, producing cheers at 142.2 dB, which is louder than a gunshot,
jet or firework. Whether you’re attending a high school, college or
professional game this season, remember that earplugs are essential to your
hearing safety.
Get
Advice from an Audiologist
A Central Kentucky audiologist can help you
find a solution for preventing hearing loss that fits your lifestyle. Options
for protecting your ears without compromising your performance are available
for a wide range of activities. From specialty musician’s plugs that let you
hear the notes risk-free to hunter’s and shooter’s earplugs, a solution exists
for all Kentucky residents’ favorite hobbies, activities and lifestyles.
