The New Year is upon us, and with it came many celebrations of the night itself and a full slate of new opportunities for adventure in the year to come. If your ears are still ringing from the New Year festivities, you’re likely wondering how to prevent similar damage to your ears in the future. Our list of tips can help you protect your hearing no matter your surroundings.
1. Wear protection.
Some of the most fun activities you’ve planned for 2020 can also be the loudest. Whether you’re planning to attend live concerts, large gatherings, firework displays, or even if you enjoy recreational hunting, you’ll need to protect your ears. Choose a pair of quality filtered earplugs or earmuffs to dampen the sound.
2. Keep your distance.
If you choose to attend an event where loud noise is present, situate yourself as far away from the source as possible. This means avoiding large speakers and standing away from fireworks, among other precautions. A little distance can drastically reduce the decibels you’re exposed to.
3. Adjust any hearing aids.
If you’re planning to attend an event with a large crowd, loud music, or participate in some other loud activity, there are several hearing aid precautions you can take. If your hearing aids include a noise protection setting, activate it; alternatively, you can manually adjust the sound. Whichever you choose, be sure to continue to wear earmuffs or other ear protection, even if you leave your hearing aids at home.
4. Keep warm.
The first part of the New Year is often the coldest; with this in mind, ensure you do your best to stay warm and cover your ears no matter the event. Prolonged exposure to cold can increase your chances of protracting a viral infection, which can affect your hearing. Worse, if you wear a hearing aid, cold temperatures can reduce its functionality.
5. Take a rest.
Just as your body needs a rest after a long evening at an event, your ears need a break, too. Limit your exposure to loud noises for at least sixteen hours after the initial exposure and even longer if possible.
If you’re experiencing hearing loss, tinnitus (ringing in your ears) or any other abnormalities with your hearing after an event, you’ve likely been exposed to excessively loud noises. If your symptoms continue, be sure to visit your hearing professional for assistance.
Sources:
https://www.thetinnitusclinic.co.uk/tinnitus-news/protect-ears-new-year https://restoredhearing.com/2015/12/30/protect-your-ears-this-new-years/ https://global.widex.com/en/blog/new-year-for-your-ears https://thenewyorkhearingcenter.com/2018/12/protect-your-hearing-on-new-years-eve/
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