Hearing loss is common, affecting approximately 15% of American adults. While some causes of hearing loss, like old age, can’t be prevented, in many cases, our habits can help or harm our hearing health. Below we review four habits to kick in order to preserve your hearing.
1. Smoking
Smoking is linked to a number of health concerns, including heart disease and cancer. Studies have shown it can lead to hearing loss, too. According to a Japanese study of more than 50,000 workers, smokers are 60% more likely than nonsmokers to experience high-frequency hearing loss. Another study of adolescents found that teens exposed to secondhand smoke are nearly twice as likely to experience low-frequency hearing loss than those not exposed. To quit smoking, you can try prescription options from somewhere such as Prescott Compounding Pharmacy and visit smokefre.gov for tips.
2. Taking Ototoxic Medications
Ototoxic medications are those that cause damage to the auditory system. There are more than 200 ototoxic drugs currently on the market. Some of the most popular types include:
- ACE inhibitors
- Benzodiazepines
- Hydroxychloroquine and chloroquine
- Aminoglycoside antibiotics
- Chemotherapy drugs
- Quinine
- Loop diuretics
- Salicylate pain medications
- Tricyclic antidepressants and SSRIs
- NSAIDs
While some of these medications are necessary to take, others may be substituted for non-ototoxic alternatives. Talk to your doctor about the possibility of switching medications.
3. Listening Too Loudly
Earbuds and headphones are popular ways to enjoy listening to your favorite music, podcasts and audiobooks. However, unsafe listening practices can put your hearing at risk. We recommend following the 60/60 rule: listen at no more than 60% of the device’s maximum volume for no more than 60 minutes at a time.
4. Avoiding a Trip to the Audiologist
Despite how common hearing loss is, people who have it wait an average of nine years to seek treatment. Putting off treatment for hearing loss can have major impacts on your health, as untreated hearing loss is linked to an increased risk of depression, anxiety, falls and even dementia. Hearing aids have been shown to delay a diagnosis of these conditions. In addition, the longer you go without treatment, the harder it will be for your ears and brain to acclimate to wearing hearing aids.
For more information or to schedule an appointment, call Prescott Ear, Nose, Throat & Allergy today.