Looking after Your Ears Is for Life, not Just Old Age

“People tend to think it’s a bit of fun if someone mishears,” says kevin Munro, a professor of audiology and director of the Manchester Center for Audiology and deafness at the University of Manchester. Munro revealed that he could not hear in his right ear from a young age, and in recent years, he has experienced hearing loss in his left ear and started wearing a hearing aid. He emphasizes the importance of understanding the ability to communicate well and avoid hearing difficulty. Munro believes that this understanding could reduce the stigma associated with hearing loss.

Hearing Deteriorates With Age

According to the National Institute for Health and Care Excellence, hearing loss affects 42% of people over 50, increasing to 71% of those over 70. Munro notes that for most individuals,hearing changes gradually over their lifetime. He explains that people frequently enough reach a stage were they believe everyone is mumbling, blaming others for their difficulty. Those around them may complain about the television being too loud or having to repeat themselves. Munro advises that this is the time to take notice, as it affects loved ones and those you spend time with.

Be Mindful of Noise Exposure

Dr. Siobhán Brennan, a colleague of munro’s at the University of Manchester, a lead clinical scientist at Sheffield teaching hospitals, and chair of the British Society of Audiology, warns that one billion young people are at risk of avoidable hearing loss.brennan attributes this to the improved sound quality of modern devices,which allows for louder volumes without distortion. This has led to a global increase in noise-induced hearing loss.

Munro recalls that early in his career,occupational noise from factories was considered a major risk factor for hearing loss. Though, he notes that the current concern is recreational noise, notably young people listening to music on headphones.

Wear earplugs

Renee Almeida, the adult audiology clinical lead at imperial Healthcare NHS Trust in London, states that loud noise is a primary cause of hearing loss in young people.It is indeed crucial to protect your ears when exposed to sounds over 85 decibels (dB). For context, a lawnmower produces 90-95 dB, while concerts or clubs can reach 110-120 dB. Almeida advises that the louder the sound, the less time you can be exposed to it without risking damage. Avoiding loud noise altogether is the best approach, which may involve staying away from speakers at live events. Almeida explains that experiencing ringing in the ears after a concert indicates that the stapedius muscle in the inner ear contracted to protect the cochlear.

“People tend to think it’s a bit of fun if someone mishears,” says Kevin Munro,a professor of audiology.

Hearing Aids and Social Connection

Munro emphasizes the importance of good hearing for effective communication and highlights that hearing aids can address hearing loss. He explains that impaired hearing can lead to social isolation, anxiety, withdrawal, and depression, which are detrimental to overall health. Munro stresses that maintaining social connections is essential for healthy aging.

Use Ear Drops Carefully

Brennan suggests olive oil-based ear drops as an option for blocked ears, noting that they work well for some people. Though, she advises using them in moderation and following the instructions on the packaging. Consulting a GP is recommended, as a blocked ear may be due to an infection rather than wax. Jindal adds that oil can sometimes do more harm than good by closing the skin’s pores and exacerbating existing skin problems.

Consider Earplugs for Swimming

Jindal states that swimming in a pool is generally safe, but those with ear-related issues should wear earplugs. Over-the-counter earplugs are available, or customized swim plugs can be obtained from an audiologist. Swimming in open water can be more problematic due to higher contamination levels.

Treat Tinnitus

Almeida describes tinnitus as a ringing or buzzing sound perceived without any external sound source.While rare cases may be caused by changes in blood flow or muscle contractions, it is typically generated by the brain’s auditory system. Hearing loss and tinnitus are often linked, as the brain may notice tinnitus when hearing is impaired. Almeida adds that jaw problems, teeth issues, or tense neck muscles can also contribute to tinnitus.Treatment options depend on the underlying cause, with hearing aids being the first step for hearing loss. A visit to the dentist may also be beneficial.

Dehydration can also be a factor, with some people reporting louder tinnitus upon waking, which improves after drinking water. Brennan notes that cognitive behavioral therapy has shown some effectiveness in reducing the impact of tinnitus.

Hearing Affects Balance

Munro explains that the ear controls both hearing and balance. Therefore, ear problems can affect balance. As people age, the balance organ in the ear may not function as well. The inner ear, which houses the cochlear for hearing and semicircular canals for balance, relies on a good blood supply.However,the blood vessels in this area are the smallest in the body,making it susceptible to vestibular problems.

During Flights, Have a Drink or Blow Your Nose

Jindal advises that swallowing can help relieve blocked or painful ears during flights by creating positive pressure inside the ear. sipping water or juice, or sucking on a sweet, can be helpful. There is also a special balloon that can be inflated with the nose, which may provide relief. Blowing the nose is also generally beneficial.