Hearing loss is a common health concern for many people, and it can result from different causes. There are different treatments available depending on the problem area in the ear. So, it’s always better to take care of your ears and avoid the things that can harm your hearing ability. Here’s how.

• Avoid damaging noises: While sensitivity to loud sound varies from person to person, prolonged exposure to noise levels over 80 decibels (dB) can cause permanent harm to the hearing ability. Exceptionally loud noises of short duration such as firing a gun or an explosion can cause irreversible hearing loss. Many of our veterans have a sensorineural hearing loss due to the time they spent around firearms, artillery and jet engines.
• Use hearing protection: To protect your ears, you can use aids such as earplugs, earmuffs or noise-cancellation earphones. Use these to avoid hearing loss when you think there’s high noise exposure.
• Enjoy music within safe decibel ranges: Experts suggest a 60:60 rule; 60% of your device’s maximum volume for no more than 60 minutes a day. Invest in noise-cancelling headphones for your MP3 player or phone, so you don’t have to turn your music or podcast up to hear it over background sounds.
• Keep your ears clean and avoid a buildup of wax: – Be careful using cotton buds when regularly cleaning your ears. Don’t poke other objects in the ear in an attempt to clean them.
• Have a healthy diet that prevents hearing loss: Make sure to include omega-3 fats, antioxidants and folic acid supplements. Magnesium and zinc as well as vitamins C, D and E and glutathione as a supplement for hearing.
• Treat your ear infection well: If your doctor prescribes an antibiotic, make sure you complete your dose. Put ear drops from time to time, to avoid infections.
• Don’t ignore a fever: Some illnesses, such as meningitis, that cause high fevers can harm your hearing. Keep a check on such diseases.

With these small changes in your daily routine and with an increased level of awareness, the effort to preserve your hearing can have a big payoff in the future.