Environmental Factors Are Biggest Risk Factor For Impaired Hearing

Main Category: Hearing / Deafness
Also Included In: Ear, Nose and Throat
Article Date: 26 Apr 2009 - 0:00 PDT

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Many people may not be aware that they are battling a silent health crisis - one that affects over 30 million people. In fact, hearing loss, the third leading health condition among Americans, impacts one in 10 people, about 40 percent of whom are younger than 65 years old. Recognizing the severity of these statistics, Miracle-Ear is honoring Better Hearing Month this May by offering tips for members of the community to actively help prevent hearing loss.

"The fast-paced, multi-media nature of our lives today has resulted in ever-increasing levels of noise pollution, which means that environmental factors are a more common cause of hearing loss than old age," said Rebecca Younk, audiologist for Amplifon USA. Younk recommends that people take a proactive approach to maintaining their hearing by following these simple tips:

- Be aware - Know and avoid the noises that cause damage. Typically over 85 decibels, some of the biggest offenders are jet engines, motorcycles, chainsaws, powerboats and personal stereo systems.

- Perform proper maintenance - When necessary, replace car mufflers or tune up lawn equipment to ensure proper performance and to reduce unnecessary noise. When purchasing new power tools, consider their noise output before buying.

- Protect your ears - Earplugs or earmuffs can be powerful tools for protecting noise-induced hearing loss. When choosing protection for your ears, opt for a style that is comfortable and that will be easy to wear consistently.

- Speak up - If you work a job where hazardous noise is an issue, such as a firefighter, construction worker or musician, speak to your employer about conducting annual hearing tests to determine any change in hearing that might indicate under-protection from the sound.

- Get tested - If you are frequently exposed to loud noises or have any suspicions about the condition of your hearing, get tested. Professional hearing examinations are safe and pain-free.

For information about Miracle-Ear, please visit http://www.miracle-ear.com/.

Source
Miracle-Ear