Hearing loss can develop naturally, but in many cases it has a cause and is completely preventable. By understanding the causes of hearing loss, you can work to prevent it by taking simple, reasonable precautions. Learn more about protecting your hearing by reading through the information on this page and talking to an Akron audiologist about preventing hearing loss.

Protecting Your Hearing from Loud Noise Exposure

Noise-induced hearing loss (NIHL) is becoming increasingly common with each passing year. Properly protecting your ears from exposure to sounds over 85 decibels (dB) is very important, especially if you regularly participate in loud activities. While one-size-fits-all earplugs offer some benefit, anyone regularly exposed to loud noise should invest in custom earplugs for full protection. We offer custom earmolds for standard earplugs as well as for specialty plugs such as hunter’s plugs, musician’s monitors, swimmer’s plugs and more. Custom-made earplugs are ideal for Akron residents who regularly attend sporting events, go hunting, ride motorcycles, enjoy woodworking, mow or snow/leaf blow their law, attend rock concerts and more. You should also try to buy quieter appliances, keep the volume on your music and TV low, and limit the number of appliances or tools you use during your regular routine.

Protecting Your Hearing from Infection and Disease

Some infections and diseases can cause hearing loss. Viruses that may affect your hearing include measles, mumps, whooping cough and rubella. Bacterial infections like meningitis and syphilis may also cause hearing loss. The best way to protect your hearing and that of your loved ones is to follow these pieces of advice: get all recommended vaccinations for you and your children, use protection to prevent the spread of sexually transmitted diseases and always seek medical attention should you feel sick.

Protecting Your Hearing from Injury

Head trauma can affect the temporal bones in the skull’s lower lateral walls, which may damage your auditory system. While trauma isn’t always preventable, you can still lower your risk through taking simple precautions such as wearing seat belts, helmets and proper protective gear; avoiding unnecessary risks, such as standing on the top rung of a ladder; never inserting foreign objects in your ears; using waterproof swim plugs when engaging in water activities; and seeking medical attention if you are suffering from an ear infection.

Protecting Your Hearing from Ototoxic Medications

Many people aren’t aware of the risk certain medications pose to their auditory system. In reality, though, more than 200 over-the-counter and prescription drugs are known to cause damage to the sensory cells necessary for hearing. These include certain antibiotics, chemotherapy drugs, salicylate pain relievers and diuretics. Talk to your doctor and an Akron audiologist if you’re concerned about a medication causing changes to your hearing.