Sound Advice: Protect Your Ears from Damaging Noise

September 10, 2024

Our world is full of sounds, from the gentle rustling of leaves to the blaring of sirens and blasting of music. 

While some sounds bring joy and comfort, others can be harmful, leading to irreversible hearing damage. With a little “sound advice,” from the experts at Academy Hearing, you can safeguard your hearing for years to come.

Understanding the Risk

The most common cause of hearing loss is exposure to loud noise, whether from a single, explosive sound or prolonged exposure to high decibel levels. 

According to the World Health Organization, over 1 billion young people are at risk of permanent, avoidable hearing loss due to unsafe listening practices.

They also estimate that by 2050, nearly 2.5 billion people will have some degree of hearing loss, and at least 700 million will require hearing rehabilitation.

You might think of loud concerts or construction sites when we talk about threats to our hearing, but everyday activities make a significant difference. 

If you listen to music too loudly in your headphones, use power tools or do other loud activities with hearing protection, you’re also putting yourself at risk of gradual hearing loss. 

Know the Safe Decibels Levels 

Sound is measured in decibels (dB), and understanding what levels are safe is the first step in protecting your ears.

Normal conversation typically occurs around 60 dB, which is completely safe. However, sounds above 85 dB, like heavy traffic, lawnmowers, or loud music, can cause damage over time. People should wear hearing protection for sounds at that level.

At 120 dB, the sound of a rock concert or a chainsaw can cause immediate harm.

Sound Advice—You can download a sound level meter app for your smartphone. These apps can help you measure the noise levels around you, ensuring you're aware of when you need to protect your ears.

Know When to Wear Ear Protection

Some people may become accustomed to loud sounds because they are part of their everyday lives, however that doesn’t mean that their hearing isn’t being damaged. On the contrary, much of the time, it means their hearing has already been damaged. 

One of the simplest ways to protect your ears from damaging noise is to use ear protection. 

Earplugs and earmuffs are both effective at reducing noise levels. Whether you're attending a concert, working on a DIY project with power tools, or if you work in a loud environment, ear protection can make a significant difference.

Sound Advice—Custom-fit earplugs offer superior protection and comfort compared to standard products. They’re especially beneficial for musicians, motorcyclists, or anyone frequently exposed to loud noises.

Turn It Down! Use the 60/60 Rule

It might be tempting to crank up the volume when your favourite song comes on, but resisting that urge is crucial. 

Listening to music at high volumes, especially through headphones or earbuds, is one of the most common ways people unintentionally damage their hearing. 

Remember, the closer the sound source is to your eardrums, the more intense the exposure.

Sound Advice—It doesn’t have to be difficult to change your listening habit. Just follow the 60/60 rule. Listen at 60% of the maximum volume for no more than 60 minutes at a time. You should take regular breaks from listening to allow your ears a chance to rest and recover. This can significantly decrease your risk of hearing loss! 

Pay Attention to the Warning Signs

Hearing damage often occurs gradually, making it easy to overlook until it's too late. However, there are several warning signs that your ears may be at risk. 

If you experience ringing in your ears (tinnitus), difficulty understanding speech in noisy environments, or a feeling of fullness in your ears, these could be early indicators of noise-induced hearing loss.

Sound Advice—If you notice any of these symptoms, it's important to consult a hearing specialist as soon as possible. Early intervention can help prevent further damage and improve your quality of life.

Prioritize Creating Quiet Spaces

Depending on what you do and where you live, your day-to-day life may be filled with plenty of noise. Give yourself a break from all the commotion and try to create quiet spaces and moments for yourself. 

Whether it’s a quiet room in your home or a walk in nature, taking time away from the chaos is not only good for your mental wellness but your long-term hearing health as well.

Sound Advice—Incorporate regular quiet time into your daily routine. Not only will this benefit your ears, but it can also reduce stress and improve overall well-being.

Whether it’s investing in quality ear protection, being mindful of volume levels, or simply creating quiet spaces to rest in, these small changes can have a big impact.

Remember, once your hearing is damaged, it can’t be restored—so take action today to protect your ears for tomorrow.

If you have concerns about your hearing or discuss custom hearing protection, contact Academy Hearing today. 

---

No content on this site, regardless of date, should ever be used as a substitute for direct medical advice from your doctor or other qualified clinician.