We might take our hearing for granted, given that we don’t actively do anything to look after it. But that doesn’t mean we are not susceptible to loss of hearing. A few simple changes to our lifestyle will ensure our hearing remains crystal clear, even when age catches up with us.
However, all is not lost if you do encounter problems with your hearing.
New-age hearing aids and hearing systems ensure a stress-free solution to your audiology problems. You can learn more about the different kinds of hearing aids and options before making a decision. But, prevention is always better than cure and by implementing these simple changes, you can successfully prevent hearing problems.
1. Exercise… and a healthy heart
Exercise is great for our bodies regardless, but did you know that it also helps with keeping your hearing intact? Numerous studies have been conducted linking cardiovascular health to long-term hearing.
In simple words, the healthier our hearts, the better our body’s blood circulation which has a direct impact on our hearing. One more reason to put on those walking shoes and build up a sweat!
2. Diet: Eat the good stuff
Believe it or not, but the most important factor to overall good health also impacts our hearing.
A study by the American Journal of Clinical Nutrition states that regular consumption of omega-3 fatty acids found in certain types of fish lowers the risk of hearing loss. Likewise, foods rich in folic acid such as spinach and kale are also great for preventing nerve damage that can have an adverse effect on our hearing.
3. Less is more!
When it comes to volume and your hearing, less can, in fact, be more. Avoid hearing music that is too loud, especially when you are wearing headphones. If you’re going to be exposed to loud noise, say at a concert or music festival, protect your ears and hearing with earplugs or cotton wool.
Likewise, ‘wind noise’ is something that can affect bikers’ hearing over time.
Just as ‘airplane noise’ can affect you when you are flying. If you’re a frequent flyer and travel by air four-six times a week for work, you might want to consider limiting exposure to the airplane’s loud noises with protective earplugs.
Remember, a little common sense goes a long way in preventing hearing loss.
4. Keep a check on your sleep patterns
If you’re having trouble sleeping, get yourself tested.
Sleep-related problems like sleep apnea and insomnia often have a direct impact on your hearing as well, or, on the other hand, could suggest an underlying problem related to inflammation of the nerves in your ears, which must be addressed at the earliest.
5. Get your hearing tested
We go for regular eye tests and blood tests, but how often do we consider checking if our hearing is alright?
While an annual test for hearing might not be necessary for everyone, regular checks for people working in environments where they are exposed to loud sounds (musicians, factory workers, pilots, and airplane crew) can be beneficial in spotting any imbalances and rectifying them at the earliest.
