There is still a lot of summer left to enjoy. Just as the temperature rises during the summer, so does the risk of noise-induced hearing loss. People remember to apply sunscreen when they’re spending time outdoors, but don’t realize that some summer activities can cause damage to their ears. Precautions such as wearing earplugs and limiting time in noisy environments can help limit the amount of damage.

It’s necessary to take precautions now to help prevent hearing loss in the future, and it’s important to visit an audiologist in Omaha, NE when needed. You can still enjoy all that the summer has to offer while protecting your ears. You should be cautious of your hearing health while participating in the seven summer activities below.

Swimming

Sometimes water can get into the outer ear, or ear canal, while swimming or doing other water activities. Most of the time, the water works itself out of the ear. However, if the water becomes stuck, an outer ear infection known as “swimmer’s ear” can happen. Swimmer’s ear can cause temporary hearing loss, ringing in the ears, and pain as the infection leads to inflammation in the ear canal. If you experience this, it’s important to see an audiologist in Omaha, NE right away.

If you wear hearing aids, it’s important to know that they can only get a little wet and are not designed to be submerged in water. Bring your case with you when you go swimming, and be sure to dry your ears completely before putting them back in. If you’re around water a lot, it might be time to consider investing in a waterproof hearing aid. Phonak has created a hearing aid that is built to withstand water and sweat better than other options.

Outdoor concerts

The sound level of outdoor concerts often exceeds 100 dB, which is higher than the recommended level. Wearing earplugs at music festivals and shows can help minimize the risk. You can also position yourself a safe distance away from the speakers so you can still enjoy outdoor concerts while protecting your ears.

Sporting events

Summer is the time for baseball games. The excitement in the stadium when the team makes a home run, the loud music to hype the crowd, sound effects, and fireworks are fun to be a part of. The sound level of baseball games is around 90 dB, which is loud enough to cause damage to your ears. 

Car races are another fun way to spend time in the summer. There’s NASCAR, Indy races, and stock cars which can all reach a sound level of 130 dB. Wearing earplugs at both these events will keep your hearing health in good condition for longer.

Boats, et skis, convertibles and motorcycles

Getting on a boat, jet-skiing, being in a convertible, and riding a motorcycle all expose you to a sound level of 100 dB, as well as pressure from the wind at fast speeds. There are certain hear-through earplugs made for activities like these because it’s not safe to completely plug your ears while operating a motor vehicle. Make sure to wear ear protection, especially if you experience ringing in your ears for a brief period of time after hopping off the vehicle.

Parades

Parades include a lot of different sounds like marching bands, music playing on floats, and engine noises. Being exposed to these sounds for long enough can cause permanent damage to your ears. Children are even more susceptible to hearing loss as their ears are still developing. Make sure they have earmuffs with foam-filled ear cups, and set a good example by using some earplugs yourself.

Yard work

The tools used to maintain your yard often reach a sound level of 85 dB or louder. Equipment such as lawnmowers, weed eaters, leaf blowers, and hedge trimmers can damage your hearing after a few hours. Wearing earplugs is the best way to combat this, but you can also consider switching to quieter electric equipment.

Traveling

When flying away for vacation, you’ll need to protect your ears while on the airplane. The air pressure in airplanes can cause what’s called “airplane ear,” when the pressure in your ear and the outside environment are out of balance. Chewing gum, sitting towards the front, and wearing earplugs or noise-canceling headphones can help.

When to see an audiologist in Omaha, NE

Active Hearing Health is here to help if you’re experiencing any symptoms of hearing loss. We’ll partner with you to find a solution that fits your lifestyle. Don’t wait, contact us today!