How Do You Know if You Need Ear Protection?

It is commonly assumed that hearing loss is something typically experienced by older generations or is a by-product of the aging process. The reality is however that hearing loss can occur for a variety of reasons at a variety of ages. One of the most common causes of hearing loss is in fact exposure to loud noises. These noises could take many forms from operating loud machinery to frequent attendance in nightclubs or loud concerts.

Worryingly it is very easy for sounds to breach the threshold for which damage to the ear is likely. It is generally considered that anything above 85 decibels can cause damage to your ears over time. That is the equivalent of the sound you can expect from a food processor or heavy traffic.

If you are exposed to excessive noise regularly and for a long period of time the best thing you can do is take preventative action by way of hearing protection. This can come in the form of earbuds, earmuffs or earplugs that cancel or block out loud noises.

If you are still unsure as to whether you need ear protection here are some common indicators that you need to start protecting your ears.

Your Workplace Is Loud

Many workplace environments can be subject to continual loud noises or a busy working environment that raises the sound levels. Examples could be construction sites, theaters or operating heavy machinery. If this is the case then you are advised to protect yourself and wear hearing protection.

Another indication that you might benefit from hearing protection in the workplace is if you find yourself having to shout to be heard by your coworkers. This is a good indication that the background noise in your workplace is reaching dangerously high levels and that you should be taking steps to protect your ears.

Discomfort In the Ears

There may be times when your ears might feel uncomfortable or sore, perhaps when you are undertaking certain activities, are at work or just out and about. There could be a number of reasons for this discomfort, such as an infection or potentially the onset of some hearing loss. In this instance, you should visit your audiologist to perform a check of your ears and take a precautionary approach and start protecting your ears by way of hearing protection.

Your Ears Are Ringing

People can experience ringing in the ears for a variety of reasons and for a variety of durations. However, if you find your ears are ringing after some of your regular activities such as work or your hobbies then it could be a sign of trauma from the loud noises of that environment.

Should you be experiencing ringing in your years that you can attribute to the noise levels of a particular environment then it is an indication that that environment is too loud. In this instance, you should take steps to adequately protect your ears and start wearing the appropriate hearing protection. If you are experiencing a prolonged ringing in the years you should also schedule an appointment to see an audiologist.