We have become accustomed to many noises in our daily lives. It can be easy to tune out and not even pay attention to the noises we hear every day. Exposure to high volume levels can cause permanent hearing loss. Noise-induced hearing loss may affect 40 million American adults. This type of hearing loss often occurs gradually due to noise exposure over a long period of time. This means it can be difficult for you to notice the changes.

Common Noises That Can Damage Your Hearing

Earbuds – It can be easy to turn up the volume on our earbuds and headphones so we can be engaged in what we are listening to and tune out the outside world. However, most devices allow you to turn up the volume to unsafe levels.

Home Appliances – Many things we use at home every day can damage our hearing. Hair dryers, vacuums and blenders can reach high sound levels.

Engines – If you are frequently around loud car, truck, or motorcycle engines, your hearing is at risk. Other equipment such as lawn mowers, chain saws, and leaf blowers can exceed safe noise levels.

Concerts – Those speakers get turned up very high at concerts. Being up close to the speakers can put you at a higher risk of noise-induced hearing loss.

Movie Theaters – Going out for a movie is often a fun and relaxing event out. Sound engineers want you to be immersed in the movie. High volumes are frequently used to accomplish this, and it is more common in action movies. Consider talking about this issue to the movie theater.

What You Can Do

Your ears deserve attention and care. Whenever possible, turn down the volume. Follow the 60/60 rule. This means you only listen to your earbuds at 60% of the volume for up to 60 minutes a day. If you cannot walk away from the noise, use hearing protection. Continuing your exposure to the noise is not worth the irreversible hearing loss. Getting regular hearing checks is an important step in taking charge of your hearing healthcare.

How Hear Now Can Help

Don't wait. As we mentioned earlier, noise-induced hearing loss often occurs gradually and you may not even notice it. We offer a range of hearing healthcare services, including custom hearing protection and hearing aids. Call us today to figure out which option is the best for you.