The key to preventing hearing loss lies in controlling the "sound dose"—that is, the loudness of the sound and the duration of exposure. While some hearing loss is related to age or genetic factors, noise-induced hearing loss is largely preventable. Let's follow BISAONEX's lead and delve deeper into how to scientifically protect our hearing health.
1. Follow the "60/60 Rule" When Using Headphones
Personal audio devices are one of the main causes of hearing damage in young people. Experts recommend: keeping the volume at no more than 60%, avoiding turning the volume to maximum; and limiting listening time to no more than 60 minutes at a time, allowing your ears to rest afterward.
Tip: Use noise-canceling headphones. They effectively block out background noise, allowing you to enjoy music clearly at a lower volume, thus better protecting your hearing.
2. Wearing Hearing Protection in Noisy Environments
If you have to shout to be heard by someone standing an arm's length away, the environmental noise is loud enough to cause hearing damage.
Earplugs: Disposable foam earplugs are inexpensive and can effectively reduce noise by 7–30 decibels.
High-fidelity earplugs (for musicians): These reduce volume without affecting sound quality, making them ideal for concerts or movie theaters.
Earmuffs: Suitable for operating power tools, mowing the lawn, or using at a shooting range. In extremely noisy environments, earplugs can also be worn under earmuffs for double protection.
3. Cultivating Healthy Habits for Ear Health
Ear health depends on good blood circulation and delicate internal structures, both of which are closely related to overall health:
Avoid using cotton swabs: Ears have a self-cleaning function, and cotton swabs can easily push earwax deeper, potentially even damaging the eardrum. Cleaning the outer ear only requires a damp cloth.
Use medications cautiously: More than 200 medications may be ototoxic, including some antibiotics and high-dose aspirin. Consult your doctor before taking any medication to understand the potential risks.
Stay active: Regular exercise helps improve blood circulation, supporting the health and function of the internal structures of the ear.
Quit smoking: Studies show that nicotine and carbon monoxide can damage the tiny hair cells in the inner ear responsible for hearing.
4. Understanding Decibels (dB) and Hearing Risk
Sound intensity is measured in decibels (dB). According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), sounds at or below 70 decibels are generally safe, while prolonged exposure to sounds above 85 decibels can cause hearing damage.
Normal conversation, 60 dB, safe.
Sirens/Fireworks, 120+ dB, immediate pain/injury.
Heavy traffic, 80–85 dB, risky after 8 hours of exposure.
Rock concert, 105–110 dB, risky after 5 minutes of exposure.
Motorcycle engine, 95 dB, risky after 50 minutes of exposure.
5. When Should You Have a Hearing Test?
If you experience persistent tinnitus, difficulty hearing others speak, or unclear speech during conversations, especially in noisy environments (such as restaurants), it is recommended that you consult a hearing specialist for a professional hearing evaluation as soon to rule out any underlying issues.
Tips: If you find yourself experiencing hearing difficulties, making it hard to understand everyday conversations or enjoy music, you might consider trying hearing aids. Modern hearing aids are small and comfortable, and can be adjusted to your individual needs in terms of volume and frequency, allowing you to more easily engage with all the sounds of life.
Summary:
Good hearing protection starts with daily habits: avoid prolonged exposure to loud environments, and lower the volume when using headphones or earbuds—if others can hear your music, the volume is too high. In high-noise environments such as concerts or construction sites, wearing earplugs or earmuffs provides effective protection. Give your ears regular breaks, keep them clean and dry, but avoid inserting objects into the ear canal to prevent damage. Maintaining overall health is also crucial, as conditions like high blood pressure and diabetes can affect hearing. Finally, have regular hearing checkups, especially if you experience tinnitus, muffled hearing, or difficulty understanding others. Through daily protection and early detection, you can better protect your hearing and enjoy a life filled with clear sounds.
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