Our ability to hear is one of the ways we connect with the world around us. It allows us to converse with loved ones, enjoy our favorite songs, and get important environmental information. Unfortunately, the effects of aging cause many people to experience hearing loss. Thankfully, there are ways of protecting your hearing so loss is minimized. There are also ways of improving hearing once the loss has set in. In this article, we’ll explore the causes of hearing loss and discuss ways you can improve your auditory health.
Why Do You Need to Improve Your Hearing?
Understanding what causes hearing loss is the first step to understanding how to minimize it. Some of the most common reasons people lose their hearing are listed below.
- Age-related: After a certain age, our bodies begin to break down. The delicate structures in the ears are no exception.
- Noise-induced: Loud noises can cause damage to the inner ear. Over time, this damage results in impaired hearing.
- Genetics: Some forms of hearing loss are hereditary. They may be present at birth or may develop later in life.
- Certain medications: Some antibiotics, chemotherapy drugs, and high doses of aspirin can damage the inner ear, causing hearing loss.
- Infections: Ear infections can cause hearing impairment if left untreated. This is especially true for those who suffer from chronic ear infections.
- Physical trauma: Injuries to the head or ear can result in hearing loss.
- Blockages: Earwax buildup can prevent sound from reaching the ear canal.
Improving Your Hearing Can Differ Based on Which Type of Hearing Loss You Have
In addition to several causes, there are also several types of hearing loss. Knowing which one you’re experiencing is required to determine the best treatment. The three main types of hearing loss are:
- Conductive: With this type, sound waves cannot pass through the ear effectively. Ear infections, perforated eardrums, or blockages can all cause this type of hearing loss.
- Sensorineural: This type of hearing loss occurs when there’s damage to the inner ear or auditory nerve. Age, noise exposure, and certain medical conditions can cause sensorineural hearing loss.
- Mixed hearing loss: This happens when an ear experiences both conductive and sensorineural hearing loss.
What You Can Do to Improve Your Hearing On Your Own
Some forms of hearing loss require medical attention, but that doesn’t mean there aren’t steps you can take to protect and improve your hearing on your own.
- Protect your ears from loud noises: Wear ear protection to minimize the noise in loud or noisy environments. Keep the volume at a moderate level when listening to audio devices.
- Exercise regularly: Exercise can minimize many health risks, including hearing loss. Physical activity improves blood circulation. Proper blood flow to the ears can help maintain hearing health.
- Manage stress: Tinnitus and other hearing issues can be caused by high-stress levels. Relaxation techniques like meditation, yoga, or mindfulness can minimize the impact of stress on your life.
- Stop smoking: Smoking can increase your risk of hearing loss and tinnitus. Quitting can help protect your hearing health.
- Clean your ears safely: Cleaning your ears with cotton swabs can push wax deeper into the ear canal. Instead, use irrigation methods or get a professional cleaning.
- Eat healthy: Some vitamins, such as A, C, and E, and minerals like magnesium and zinc, are good for ear health. Eating a balanced diet that provides these nutrients can keep your ears
- Stay hydrated: Proper hydration maintains the fluid levels in the inner ear. These fluids are important for healthy hearing.
Get a Hearing Evaluation at Metro Hearing
If you’re concerned that you may have, or be at risk for, hearing loss, the expert audiologists at Metro Hearing can help. Our team can evaluate your hearing and give you tips specific to your lifestyle about how to protect it. If you already have hearing loss, they’ll develop a plan to help you manage it. This can include lifestyle changes to minimize further damage or devices like Phoenix hearing instruments to augment your hearing. Contact us today for your appointment.
Image Credit: Janeberry, Shutterstock
