As you’re watching the fireworks explode in the sky this New Year’s Eve, take some time to think about setting a few hearing-focused New Year’s resolutions to make your ears a priority in 2024.
Resolution No. 1: Protect Your Hearing
We often think of hearing loss as something that happens as you age, but there are a large number of factors that can affect your hearing health, including:
- Loud noise exposure
- Ototoxic medication
- Genetic factors
- Physical trauma to the ear canal
While you may not be able to prevent aging, you can protect your ears from factors like loud noise exposure. The Centers for Disease Control defines the threshold for hearing damage as exposure to noise over 70 dB for a prolonged period or above 120 dB immediately.
Think about the times when you are exposed to noise exceeding recommended levels, such as during fireworks displays, concerts or at construction sites. In 2024, make it your resolution to wear hearing protection like earplugs or earmuffs whenever you are exposed to hazardous noise levels.
Resolution No. 2: Schedule a Hearing Test
Many people have not had their hearing tested since they were in school. Having your hearing tested regularly is the best way for your audiology providers to track your hearing over time, allowing for a clearer picture of hearing loss progression. Schedule a hearing test in 2024 and resolve to attend regular tests in the future.
Resolution No. 3: Start Hearing Loss Treatment
It takes the average person seven years from the moment they realize they have hearing loss to the moment they begin treatment. Untreated hearing loss can negatively impact your personal and working relationships, cause frustration and anxiety in social situations and even leave you more prone to falls.
There is no wrong time to start treating hearing loss with hearing aids. Let 2024 be the year you embrace the world of more accessible hearing and communication and start treatment ahead of the seven-year average.
For more information about caring for your hearing health in the new year, call the experts at Midwest Hearing today.