People can see many changes that come with aging. They often gain weight, notice new wrinkles on their faces regularly, and find they don’t see as well as they used to. However, they may not notice that their hearing is going because hearing loss occurs gradually for most. What steps can they take to protect their hearing and have a lifetime of healthy ears?
Routine Screenings
Every person needs to have their hearing checked regularly. Most people see a doctor yearly and visit an optometrist. They get their teeth cleaned twice a year, but they never think of having their ears checked. Every adult 50 years old should start having hearing tests every five years. If hearing loss is detected, the doctor will want to see the individual more often.
For those with hearing aids, regular hearing tests are needed, as these devices must be replaced every five to seven years. Technological advances may lead to a person wishing to upgrade sooner, as they want to benefit from Phonak hearing aids with Bluetooth.
Tinnitus and Vertigo
One in three senior citizens suffers from age-related hearing loss. They may also experience tinnitus and vertigo. Tinnitus is most common in adults between 60 and 69 years of age and causes noises in the ears when no external sounds are present. The American Tinnitus Association reports that most cases result from sensorineural hearing loss, and no cure exists. Fortunately, treatment options are available.
Benign paroxysmal positional vertigo leads to dizziness. Tiny calcium crystals in the inner area cause this medical condition. The crystals may be displaced by head trauma or age-related changes in the utricle. Head movements may be enough to reposition the crystals, so patients should see an audiologist for treatment.
Medical Issues
Comorbidities may increase a person’s risk of hearing loss. High blood pressure and high cholesterol contribute to this common condition. Sleep apnea, cardiovascular disease, and diabetes are other medical issues that increase a person’s risk of hearing problems.
In addition, certain medications are ototoxic. They may lead to temporary or permanent hearing loss, balance issues, or tinnitus. Chemotherapy drugs, loop diuretics, and antibiotics are three types of medication that may cause hearing issues. Talk with the doctor to learn whether a drug is ototoxic and if safer alternatives are available.
Earwax
Earwax becomes drier and harder as people age. Older adults may experience excessive buildup or a blockage and cannot hear clearly. Their ears may feel full, or they may notice ringing in the ears. Visit a general practitioner or otolaryngologist to have the earwax removed. Attempting to clear the ears at home can lead to permanent damage.
Ear Protection
Every person should wear ear protection when in noisy environments. Mowing the lawn or attending a concert can damage the ears. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention reports that a person might suffer significant permanent damage before the hearing loss becomes noticeable. Disposable foam earplugs may be used, so every person should have these devices available.
People don’t have to lose their hearing as they age. Steps can be taken during a person’s lifetime to protect the ears and ensure that a person can hear the normal sounds of daily life. Follow these tips and speak with a doctor about other measures that can be taken. Men and women who do so typically find they can hear clearly well into their senior years.
