Do you listen to a personal music player with earbuds that sit in your ear?
Does your workplace tell you to wear hearing protection?
Do you use firearms frequently?
Do you attend participate in live NASCAR events?
Do you attend Live Concerts?
Do you ride motorboats, motorcycles or other motorized vehicle not enclosed?
Do you drive a car with a modified exhaust?
Do you use lawn equipment or power tools for 4 hours/day at least 5 days/week?
Do you ever have any ringing in your ears that lasts longer than 2 days?
Do you smoke?
If you answered yes to 3 or more you could be at risk for noise induced hearing loss. If you think your hearing may not be what it used to be a basic hearing screening will provide a simple pass or fail for determining if a more comprehensive exam is warrented. A failed hearing screening means it's time to see an Audiologist for a comprehensive exam to determine the degree and type of hearing loss. Also, if you ever feel that your hearing has changed significantly in a short amout of time it is important to valuated right away.
Most people wait an average of seven years to seek testing for hearing loss AFTER they notice difficulty hearing. Preventing hearing loss is a simple way to save years of aggrivation after the damage has been done. Simple disposable foam plugs are effective and cheap for everday uses. Personalized custom earmolds are also available for when comfort and sound quality are concerns.
Here are some great links:
Links for Custom Earplugs
Westone www.westone.com
Microsonic www.earmolds.com
Links for Hearing Loss Prevention
National Institute for Occupational Safety & Health (NIOSH) http://www.cdc.gov/niosh/topics/noise/
Better Hearing Institute http://www.betterhearing.org/hearing_loss_prevention/
Public Video on Hearing Loss Prevention by Better Hearing Institute
link at http://www.betterhearing.org/hearing_loss_prevention/
This blog posted by Suzanne Yoder, Au.D. Doctor of Audiology and owner of HearWell Center. Please visit our website for more information http://www.hearwellcenter.com/
No comments:
Post a Comment