Preventing hearing loss

Outdoor season is upon us, and that means yardwork, activities and events with high noise levels. Gardening, camping, hunting and motorsports all offer enjoyment and relaxation, but they come with the risk of exposure to harmful noise levels. 

“Understanding the importance of ear protection is essential to safeguarding hearing health and ensuring long-term wellness,” says Sarah Curtis, Au.D., founder of Sounds of Life Hearing Center. “I started Sounds of Life with the goal of not only addressing patients’ existing hearing issues but also actively preventing hearing damage in children and adults.”

Along with comprehensive hearing care and tinnitus treatments, Sounds of Life makes custom-fit protective earpieces and custom headphone earbuds for occupational safety, sound reduction, musicians, swimmers, hunters and other activities where ear protection is essential.

The best type of hearing protection is the kind that fits and is worn properly. If that’s foam plugs from the drugstore, they must be fully inserted without any gaps for sound to leak in and not so loose that they can easily fall out.

“The best and simplest tips I can offer for hearing safety include turning down the volume, moving away from the noise, and using well-fitted, properly worn hearing protection,” says Dr. Curtis.

Noise-induced hearing loss can occur over time and can develop gradually and go largely unnoticed until it’s too late. Sounds from lawnmowers, power tools, firearms and loud music and engines can all damage the delicate inner ear, leading to permanent hearing impairment.

“A single loud noise, such as a rifle shot, can also damage the ear permanently,” says Dr. Curtis.

“The right ear protection depends on the risk the activity poses and your level of exposure.”

Tips for Healthy Hearing

• Low-noise tools. Many manufacturers offer electric or battery-operated alternatives, which produce less noise.

• Limit exposure time. In noisy environments, take regular breaks to give ears time to recover. 

• Sound monitoring apps. Portable sound level meter apps monitor noise level in real time, helping to avoid excessively loud environments. 

• Educate and advocate. Encourage a culture of hearing safety in group activities.

Sounds of Life Hearing Center is located at 8003 Auburn Road, Suite 4, in Concord Township. For more information and to schedule an appointment, call 440-579-4085 or visit the website SoundsOfLifeHC.com.