Hearing connects us to conversations, music, nature and the people we love. Because hearing loss usually develops gradually, many people do not notice it until it begins to affect daily life. The good news is that much noise-related hearing loss can be prevented with simple everyday habits.
Here is how to look after your ears for life.
Turn the volume down
Listening to music through earphones at high volume is a common cause of hearing damage. Keep the volume at a comfortable level where you can still hear people around you, and take regular listening breaks.
Protect your ears in noisy places
Concerts, sporting events, power tools and lawn mowers can all be loud enough to harm hearing. Foam earplugs or ear defenders are inexpensive and make a real difference.
Keep cotton swabs out of your ears
Ears are self-cleaning. Pushing swabs into the ear canal can press wax deeper or damage the eardrum. Gently clean the outer ear with a washcloth instead.
Look after your overall health
Healthy blood pressure, good circulation and not smoking support the delicate structures of the inner ear. Regular activity and balanced meals benefit your ears as well as your heart.
Know the early signs
Frequently asking people to repeat themselves, turning the television up louder or ringing in the ears can all be early signs of hearing changes.
Sudden hearing loss in one or both ears needs urgent medical attention, as early treatment can help.
Hearing checks are quick, painless and give you peace of mind, especially as you get older or if you work in a noisy environment.
Our General Healthcare and Memory and Neuro Health teams can check your hearing and guide you to the right support.