Spotting the signs of hearing damage
Surprisingly, one in 20 respondents didn’t recognise any of the signs associated with hearing loss, and the majority could only list five out of the 10 symptoms shared.
What to look out for
It’s important to be aware of all of the potential signs of hearing damage, as it’s unlikely that each person impacted will experience all of them. The 10 side effects to look out for include:
- Ear pain or discomfort
- Tinnitus
- Hearing distortion
- Muffled hearing
- Difficulty understanding speech
- Sensitivity to sounds and volume
- Misunderstanding words
- Balance issues
- Hearing fatigue
- Social withdrawal
If you are experiencing any of the above, it is important that you book a free hearing test to address your symptoms, so that you can take the proper course of action to protect your hearing moving forwards.
How to protect your ear health
It goes without saying that for many, commuting is unavoidable. But, there are a number of ways that you can protect ear health when travelling to and from work.
Use ear protection
Whether it’s ear plugs, ear muffs, noise cancelling headphones, using a form of protection can significantly reduce your exposure to harmful noise levels. If you opt for the latter, make sure your volume isn’t exceeding safe levels.
Opt for alternative routes or times
Whenever possible, plan your commute during off-peak hours when noise levels are generally lower. Alternatively, consider routes that are less congested. Even small reductions in noise exposure can have a positive impact on your hearing health over time.
Stay informed
Whether you’re driving, walking, or taking public transport, the noise levels you’re exposed to could be putting your hearing at risk. By understanding these risks and taking steps to protect your ears, you can help prevent long-term damage and preserve your hearing for years to come.