New Year’s Eve often consists of big parties, loud music and fireworks to ring in the new year. All of these things contribute to noise-induced hearing loss. It’s necessary to protect our ears. Keeping a safe distance from the noise, wearing ear protection, taking listening breaks and bundling up in the cold are four great ways to protect your ears on a noisy New Year’s Eve.

As your ear specialist in Omaha, Active Hearing Health wanted to give you a few tips on protecting your ears during this holiday. Everyone is at risk of hearing loss when exposed to damaging decibel levels, and new year festivities can range from 60 to 120 decibels. Here’s how you can help protect your ears!

Keep a safe distance from the noise sources

Many choose to attend a concert, show or event with fireworks on New Year’s Eve. It’s important to keep a safe distance from the source of the noise. If you’re attending a concert or show, be sure to find a good spot that isn’t right next to the speakers. 

It’s more than likely that you’ll be viewing a firework show from inside, but if you’re watching from outside be sure to stay far enough back. In doing this, you put less pressure on your ears. Remember that any sound over 85 dB can damage your hearing.

Wear ear protection

If you know you’re going to be too close to the noise, consider wearing ear protection such as earplugs or earmuffs. If you use hearing aids, wear them; some hearing aid brands allow you to reduce the noise level and choose a level you prefer. You can still be a social butterfly and enjoy all the celebrations without exposing your ears to harmful decibel levels.

Take breaks from the noise

You can always go to a quieter spot to take a break from the noise. Stepping away from the sound for a little bit will help your hearing in the long run. You can set limits for yourself and move to a spot that gives your ears a little break. Take listening breaks in between conversations at the party when needed. New Year’s parties and countdowns can be loud, so be sure you’re taking breaks throughout the night.

Bundle up

If you’re going to be outside on New Year’s Eve, be sure to cover your ears in the cold and bundle up to avoid getting sick. Being out in the cold for too long makes you more susceptible to getting sick, and certain viruses are related to hearing problems. It’s also important to protect your ears from the cold to avoid ear pain, ear infections and tinnitus.

Visit an ear specialist

Know when to see an ear specialist. If you or a loved one are experiencing any symptoms of hearing loss, come see us for a hearing consultation. We can help identify your degree of hearing loss and come up with a treatment plan that goes along with your lifestyle. Contact us today to schedule an appointment!