Tips from an Ear Doctor: 12 Ways to Protect Your Hearing

Hearing is integral to our overall well-being, enabling communication, connection, and enjoyment of life’s sounds and all it entails. Yet, it is often overlooked until issues arise. Hearing loss is not always reversible but is largely preventable with proactive care. Dr. Leslie Koh, a respected ENT specialist in Singapore, shares detailed and practical advice for maintaining optimal ear health. By following these 12 tips, you can take essential steps to protect and preserve your hearing.

Limit Exposure to Loud Noises

One of the most significant threats to hearing is prolonged exposure to loud noise. Prolonged sounds above 85dB – equivalent to heavy traffic or a vacuum cleaner, can cause irreversible damage to the tiny hair cells in the inner ear. These cells are responsible for transmitting sound signals to the brain, but they do not regenerate once damaged.

Limit your exposure to loud environments such as concerts, construction sites, or loud machinery. If exposure is unavoidable, try to reduce the time spent in such settings and protect your ears with appropriate safety measures.

Use Earplugs in Noisy Environments

Earplugs are one of the simplest yet most effective tools for protecting your hearing in loud situations. Disposable foam plugs are inexpensive and widely available, while custom-moulded earplugs provide better fit and comfort.

If you frequently attend concerts or work in noisy environments, consider custom high-fidelity earplugs. These reduce harmful noise levels without distorting sound quality, making them ideal for musicians or event enthusiasts.

Keep the Volume Low on Devices

Modern lifestyles often involve extended use of headphones or earbuds, but high volumes can contribute to noise-induced hearing loss. Experts recommend keeping the volume at no more than 60 per cent of the maximum and limiting listening sessions to no more than 60 minutes at a time—the 60/60 rule.

Noise-cancelling headphones can help you listen at lower volumes by blocking external noise. Choose over-ear designs for added comfort and better sound isolation compared to in-ear buds.

Take Regular Breaks from Sound Exposure

Constant noise exposure, even at moderate levels, can fatigue your auditory system over time. This is particularly true for those who work in noisy industries or live in urban environments.

Give your ears a break by scheduling periods of silence throughout the day. Consider giving yourself quiet time at short intervals to let your ears recover from sustained noise exposure.

Avoid Cotton Swabs on Ears

Many people use cotton swabs or buds to clean their ears, but this habit can be harmful. Cotton buds can push wax deeper into the ear canal, leading to ear blockage or damage to the eardrum.

Ears are naturally self-cleaning, and earwax typically migrates outward on its own. If you feel that earwax buildup is excessive, consult an ENT Specialist who can safely remove it using appropriate tools.

Keep Your Ears Clean and Dry

Moisture in the ear canal creates a breeding ground for bacteria and fungi, leading to infections like swimmer’s ear. To prevent this, dry your ears gently with a towel after swimming or bathing.

For those prone to ear infections, consider wearing earplugs or swim caps while swimming. Alcohol-based ear drops can also help to dry out any residual moisture.

Follow Prescription Guidelines for Medications

Certain medications, known as ototoxic drugs, can harm your hearing. These include some antibiotics, diuretics (medications for water loss), and chemotherapy agents for cancer.

Always discuss the potential side effects of such drugs with your doctor and strictly adhere to prescribed dosages. If you notice symptoms like tinnitus or hearing changes after starting a new medication, consult your doctor immediately.

Stay Active to Support Ear Health

Physical activity promotes healthy blood flow throughout the body, including the ears. Better circulation ensures that the tiny hair cells in the cochlea receive sufficient oxygen and nutrients to function optimally.

Regular cardiovascular exercise such as walking, swimming, or cycling improves overall blood circulation. Yoga and stretching exercises can also benefit ear health by reducing tension and improving posture.

Manage Stress to Reduce Ear Pressure

Chronic stress can lead to issues such as tinnitus or a feeling of fullness in the ears. Stress-related hormonal changes and muscle tension may exacerbate these symptoms.

Relaxation techniques can be incorporated into your daily routine, such as meditation, mindfulness, or breathing exercises. Regular stress management can help alleviate these symptoms and improve overall ear health.

Know Early Signs of Hearing Loss

The earlier hearing loss is detected, the more effectively it can be managed. Common signs include difficulty understanding conversations, needing to increase TV/radio volumes, or experiencing muffled sounds.

It is important to pay attention to these symptoms and act promptly by seeking professional help. Early intervention can significantly improve quality of life and slow further deterioration.

Avoiding Smoking for Better Hearing Health

Smoking negatively impacts blood flow to the inner ear, depriving it of oxygen and essential nutrients. Research has also linked second-hand smoke exposure to hearing problems in children.

Quitting smoking not only benefits your lungs and heart but also reduces the chances of developing hearing loss. Not only will this benefit your ears, but will also have other wide-reaching health benefits.

Schedule Regular Checkups with an ENT Doctor

Routine hearing assessments are critical for identifying potential issues early. ENT specialists can detect underlying problems such as ear infections, wax buildup, or early signs of age-related hearing loss.

Dr. Leslie Koh emphasises the importance of regular consultations to maintain hearing performance. Whether you are experiencing symptoms or simply want to ensure optimal care, professional evaluations are invaluable.

Potential Signs You Need Hearing Loss Treatments

Symptoms like sudden hearing loss, persistent tinnitus, dizziness, or ear pain warrant immediate medical attention. These could indicate conditions such as infections, inner ear disorders, or more complex issues requiring further investigation and special treatments.

Delaying treatment can lead to complications. It is essential to consult a professional as soon as symptoms appear.

Consult an ENT Specialist in Singapore

If you are concerned about your hearing, visiting an experienced ENT specialist like Dr. Leslie Koh can provide clarity on your condition as well as solutions. With up-to-date diagnostic tools and a patient-centred approach, Dr. Koh offers comprehensive evaluations and tailored treatment plans.

Conveniently located at Mount Alvernia Hospital, his clinics provide compassionate care to all patients, both adults and children.

Our hearing is precious, and safeguarding it requires proactive effort. By following these tips and seeking professional advice, where necessary, you can preserve your hearing and continue to enjoy life to the fullest. Take the first step today by scheduling a consultation with Dr. Koh.

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