When the temperature rises, so do the number of noisy activities that could potentially damage our hearing. There’s no need to worry, though. By knowing what they are and remembering to protect your ears, you can keep yourself safe and enjoy all that the season offers.
Sun’s Out, Fun’s Out—and Earplugs Are In
Noise-induced hearing loss (NIHL) is caused by a one-time exposure to a sound that is too loud or continuous exposure to loud sounds over time. Any sound at or above 85 decibels (dB) can cause hearing loss. Wearing earplugs, which help reduce the intensity of sounds, can prevent NIHL.
These loud summertime activities pose a threat to your family’s hearing:
- Fireworks Displays—The snap, crackle and pop can do a number on your ears, so have earplugs handy. Most fireworks clock in at 125 dB.
- Air Shows—Don’t just wing it—bring your hearing protection. The sound of a jet engine is between 120 and 140 dB, which is extremely harmful to your ears.
- Outdoor Concerts—Because concert noise levels are frequently over 100 dB, prolonged exposure to this level of noise can damage your hearing.
- Parades—Noise from revving engines, sirens and marching bands can hurt small children’s hearing, but earmuffs are an excellent way to keep your kids safe.
- Yard Work—Lawn equipment like lawnmowers and hedge trimmers emit sounds between 80 and 105 dB, which can wreak havoc on your hearing if you’re around them for too long.
- Target Shooting—Set your sights on protecting your hearing with earplugs and earmuffs while shooting. Nearly all firearms deliver sounds above 140 dB.
- Baseball Games—America’s favorite summer pastime is noisier than ever, with fireworks, loud announcers and rock music. Remember to score some earplugs before you set foot in the stadium.
- Car Races—All that vroom-vrooming can be disastrous for your ears—races average between 90 and 110 dB. Keep your hearing on track by popping in some earplugs.
While disposable earplugs will do in a pinch, custom-made earplugs are your best bet at preventing hearing loss and damage most effectively—give us a call at (503) 485-2564 to schedule your consultation for custom ear protection today!
“Have always found the staff and doctors here to be helpful. This was my first visit with Dr. Prze after Dr. Allan retired, and he was very friendly, enthusiastic, and thorough. It was obvious he had read my chart carefully before my checkup.”