How May Your Lifestyle Result in Hearing Loss?

A Study on Hearing Loss

According to a study from Johns Hopkins Medicine, in 2060, the amount of individuals over 20-years-old who have some form of hearing loss will double. There are a number of factors that need to be taken into consideration, but it is mainly due to living an average modern life. 

The activities that we engage in and the environments that we put ourselves into all pose a risk to hearing health. The main culprit is high decibel levels. It takes 85 decibels (dB) or more to cause permanent NIHL (noise-induced hearing loss) or tinnitus (ringing sensation in the ears). That is nearly the same level of noise that is emitted from a typical lawn mower.  

There are a number of things you can do to protect your hearing, without sacrificing the things you enjoy doing.

When Using Earbuds

Refrain from blasting the volume when listening to music. Keep the volume at a low level, and take breaks from wearing them. A good tip is to keep your device under 60% of its volume level.

Going out to Bars and Restaurants

Bars and restaurants can be noisy when there’s a big crowd of people. On average, conversations between people reach 50-65 dB. When there are several conversations happening at the same time, while music is playing in the background, it can be difficult to understand others. Sports bars are widely known for having many TVs and bustling crowds.

When you are out at one of these places, if the area is too loud, ask your waiter or bartender to turn the volume down on the TV or music. Your hearing health should be a priority, so your bartender or waiter should be accommodating. 
   
When seeing a Movie in the Theater

Watching an action-packed movie is entertaining, but can also be loud. There are some films that can reach up to 100 dB. Unfortunately, movie theaters across the U.S. do not have regulations for the volume level on speakers. 

If you don’t want to miss out on a theater experience, wear protection for your ears. You could also wait until the movie is available to watch from home, so you can save money and adjust the volume to a comfortable setting.

Attending Concerts

Experiencing a live performance from your favorite band or musician is always exciting, so don’t let noisy venue ruin your hearing. A typical rock concert can reach 110 to 140 dB. This can cause NIHL, even after one concert. Have you ever noticed symptoms of tinnitus? If you have, there may be permanent damage to your hearing.

When you go to a concert, remember to carry a pair of earplugs. If you have children coming along with you, there are special earmuffs available for them. If possible, look for a spot that is not too close to a speaker or rowdy concert goers.   

Going to Sports Arenas

Attending a live sporting event is exciting, but it can get loud at these games. It was reported that two of the loudest stadiums in the U.S. - Arrowhead Stadium in Kansas City, MS and Centurylink Stadium in Seattle, WA, surpassed 100 dBs, which is very dangerous for your hearing health! In 2013 the Seattle Seahawks reached 137.6 dB, while the Kansas City Chiefs reached 142.2 dB! Remember, it only takes at least 85 dB to cause permanent NIHL or tinnitus. This is why it’s very important to wear protection for your ears.    

Modern life can cause issues for your hearing health, but never let these things stop you from enjoying fun experiences. 
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If you, or a loved one, have hearing loss and want to enjoy fun activities again contact us at Pure Sound Hearing Aids and we’ll find a hearing aid solution!

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