Earplugs - Prevention Is Better Than Cure

According to statistics, 1 out of 7 people in the UK experience significant hearing problems. Sensorineural deafness, occurring when sensors in the ear canal get damaged, is one of the most common hearing problems - it accounts for 87% of cases. It can be happen for various reasons: loud sounds, infections, genetics, aging, etc. Some of these factors can't be eliminated but earplugs can protect ears when people are exposed to loud noise or bacteria. The following article looks into three common cases when ears require additional protection.

Everyday noise
Few people think their hearing sensors can be damaged when they perform regular household chores. However, research studies show that 35,000 of people who have hearing problems belong to the youngest age group - from 0 to 25 years. Household chores, such as mowing or drilling, performed on a regular basis may be to blame. Wearing foam earplugs helps increase the comfort factor in everyday life. To reduce the impact on the ear canal, specialists also recommend ceasing the activity for at least 15 minutes.

Music
It's a well-known fact that permanent hearing loss can be the result of recurring long-lasting exposure to excessively loud sounds. Certain music instruments produce sound waves which have many times more energy than the human ear can perceive without negative consequences. Specialists warn that sounds of 85 decibels and above can be harmful for the ear while exposure to the sound which is above 140 decibels can result in hearing loss. Research studies have shown that electric guitars, basses and drums can produce sounds of nearly 110 decibels which makes them potentially harmful for musicians. The good news is there are earplugs for musicians which come with special filters. They don't block sounds completely but reduce certain frequencies making sounds more comfortable for the ear.

Swimming
A regular session in a swimming pool can also affect one's hearing. Professional swimmers are all aware of the swimmer's ear infection which occurs when water penetrates into the ear canal on a frequent basis. Special swimming plugs can easily eliminate any risks of infections. Not only do they keep water away but also release the pressure experienced under water.

The easiest way to avoid hearing problems is to make sure the ear canals are properly protected against uncomfortable external factors. Prevention is definitely better than cure.

~ 26 January 2012 ~