Are your daily habits hurting your hearing? 8 threats you must be aware of

Prolonged and loud exposure to sound directly in your ears can lead to gradual hearing loss (Image: Canva)

It isn't just ageing or prolonged exposure to loud noises that can degrade your hearing. There's much more to it. Hearing loss can happen for many reasons, and sometimes it stems from things that have nothing to do with your ears. A myriad of seemingly harmless activities could quietly chip away at this invaluable sense. You could be harming your hearing with these daily habits.

1. Excessive use of headphones

The convenience of slipping on headphones for a musical escape or diving into a podcast has become second nature. However, prolonged and loud exposure to sound directly in your ears can lead to gradual hearing loss. The World Health Organisation recommends limiting headphone use to 60 percent of the maximum volume for only 60 minutes a day to mitigate this risk.

Also read: Earphones or headphones? Both are bad, constant use can lead to hearing loss, warn studies

2. High volume at concerts and events

The allure of live music often draws us to concerts and festivals, but the blaring amplifiers and speakers can wreak havoc on our hearing. Sustained exposure to loud music, especially at close proximity, can cause permanent damage. Consider using earplugs specifically designed for concerts to dampen the decibels without compromising the experience.

3. Occupational hazards

Certain professions expose individuals to high levels of noise regularly. Construction workers, factory employees, musicians, and even teachers might face occupational hazards that threaten their hearing. The consistent loud noise emitted by drills, saws, and other tools can be detrimental. Protective gear such as earmuffs or earplugs should be mandatory in these environments to safeguard against prolonged exposure to loud machinery or equipment.

4. Ignoring ear health

Simple practices like neglecting regular ear check-ups and cleaning can inadvertently contribute to hearing issues. Earwax buildup, often overlooked, can impede sound waves, causing temporary hearing loss or discomfort. Avoid using cotton swabs that can push wax deeper and seek professional assistance for proper ear hygiene. When overlooked, viral and bacterial infections can also impair your hearing.

5. Underestimating recreational activities

Recreational activities such as hunting or riding motorcycles might seem innocuous, yet they often expose you to harmful levels of noise. The thunderous roar of firearms or the relentless wind noise while riding can lead to irreversible hearing damage if precautionary measures like ear protection are ignored.

6. Smoking and its impact

Surprisingly, smoking has also been linked to hearing loss. Studies have highlighted the adverse effects of smoking on hearing health, emphasising the need for smoking cessation not only for overall well-being but also for auditory health.

7. Stress and its role

While stress itself doesn’t directly impair hearing, its effects on overall health can't be underestimated. Stress hormones might exacerbate existing hearing issues, making individuals more susceptible to auditory problems. Managing stress through relaxation techniques or seeking professional help can indirectly safeguard your hearing health.

8. Certain health conditions

Believe it or not, some health issues including diabetes, sleep apnea, high blood pressure, and even dental problems can harm your sensory cells and increase your risk of hearing loss! Small adjustments in our routines and embracing protective measures against such health hazards can collectively make a monumental difference in safeguarding our auditory health.