About 40 million individuals in the US alone are suffering from hearing loss. But there are various things you can do to improve this, such as wearing a hearing aid.
There are three different kinds of hearing loss, according to the American Speech-Language-Hearing Association (ASHA).
Conductive hearing loss takes place when noises cannot penetrate through the outer and middle ears.
Sensorineural auditory loss happens with an inner ear injury or issues with the nerves leading from the inner ear to the brain.
Mixed hearing loss is a blend of both conductive and sensorineural auditory loss.
Stay with us to learn some tips that may just help you.
First, know that there are things you can do to prevent hearing loss. One of these is avoiding loud noises. When watching a movie, working on your computer, or playing a game on your tablet, turn the volume down. If you are around loud noises, such as in a factory or mowing the lawn, wear ear protection, such as a pair of noise-blocking headphones.
Many people do not think about keeping their ears dry, but this is a way you can prevent hearing loss. Moisture in the ears can cause ear infections and wax buildup. After bathing or swimming, gently wipe the inside of the ears dry.
It is important to have regular health screenings. This will allow you to see what changes are taking place in your hearing and measure your hearing loss. The results from the screening may signal that it is time to invest in a hearing aid.
You may also consider having a family member, or close friend read out loud to you. Then repeat back word for word what was said. Once you master this, do it with a TV show or a movie, repeating each line back.
Going for a walk in nature is relaxing and helps count towards your exercise goals. But it also helps with hearing. Concentrate on what you are hearing, such as the chirping of the birds, the rustle of leaves, or the wind. Walking along a beach is another great place to hear various things, such as the crashing of the waves.
You should also understand the medications you are taking. Before starting any medication, whether it is prescribed or over-the-counter, discuss the side effects with your physician. This also includes any supplements. Many supplements are great for ear health. These supplements include:
- In addition to regulating fluid levels and increasing oxygen consumption, B vitamins have a variety of possible benefits for your ears. Folic acid (B9) fosters circulation to the ears, along with energy performance in the cells that are accountable for hearing.
- The mineral magnesium supports healthy nerve function in the auditory system and prevents arterial damage.
- A mineral called zinc protects the hair cells in your ear, which send electrical signals to your brain through vibrations. Zinc likewise aids in your body’s immune system, supporting the prevention of ear infections. If you are deficient in zinc and suffer from tinnitus, this mineral may help reduce the ringing in the ears.
- Supplementing with vitamins A, C, and E before exposing the ears to loud noises may help to prevent hearing loss damage. (1)
If you are in the Clearwater, FL area and would like to know more ways to improve your hearing loss, or would like to be fitted for a hearing aid, call Countryside Hearing Aid Services today.