When it comes to the human body, the ears are one of the most sensitive areas. Because of this, your ears are subject to a variety of different ear conditions that range from annoying to downright debilitating. Fortunately, the hearing professionals at North Shore Hearing P.C. can help.
As the leading team of ear and hearing specialists, we regularly deal with different ear conditions and will help you find a solution. If your ear condition is permanent, we offer a range of solutions that can help improve your quality of life.
Common Ear Problems & Ear Conditions
There are a number of common ear conditions and ear diseases that can affect your quality of life. From ringing in the ear to full-out pain, your ears are sensitive and should be protected. Here are some of the most common ear conditions you should watch out for:
- Ringing in the Ears (Tinnitus)
- Hearing loss (conductive, sensorineural, and mixed)
- Ear Infections of the middle ear
- Swimmer’s ear
- Meniere’s disease
- Blocked ears
- Otosclerosis
Many types of ear conditions cause pain and discomfort, which can lead to stress that only makes the problem worse. Those who experience ear conditions often undergo a change in personality and attitude due to the inability to communicate as effectively as before.
If left untreated, some ear conditions can cause, contribute to, or worsen hearing loss, which can lead to self-inflicted social isolation, depression, and other mental, social, and emotional problems. In most instances, however, many ear conditions can be prevented.
Tips to Prevent Common Ear Conditions & Protect Hearing
When it comes to protecting your hearing and preventing common ear conditions, an ounce of prevention is worth pounds of cure. In other words, proactively taking steps to protect your ears can prevent certain ear conditions from ever occurring or greatly reduce the likelihood of developing the condition.
Here are a few simple steps you can take today to protect your ears and hearing for a lifetime.
Use Ear Plugs Around Loud Noises
Did you know that an estimated 40 million US adults aged 20-69 suffer from noise-inducing hearing loss (NIHL)because of loud leisure or work environments? If you know you’ll be in or work in a loud environment, it’s best to protect your ears with earplugs. And if you’re a musician, there are even more steps you can take to protect your hearing and prevent hearing loss.
Use 60/60 Rule When Listening to Music
Everyone loves music! However, if you are listening through earbuds or headphones, you can protect your ears with the 60/60 rule. This rule suggests you listen to headphones at no more than 60% volume for no more than 60 minutes a day.
Give Your Ears Time to Heal
If you are at a restaurant or bar with loud music, take time to step outside to give your ears time to rest and recover.
Just Say No to Cotton Swabs
When it comes to cleaning your ears, there is a right way and a wrong. And inserting cotton swabs or anything else into your ears is the wrong way. For proper ear cleaning methods, read How to Safely Clean Your Hears? Hint: It Doesn’t Include Q-Tips.
Use Medicines As Directed
Some medicines like aspirin, naproxen, and ibuprofen can contribute to hearing loss. Because of this, you should always use medicines as directed. And if you’re concerned about the impact, speak to a medical professional.
Keep Your Ears Dry
Having too much moisture in your ear can lead to a buildup of bacteria, which can cause different ear infections, including the swimmer’s ear. Make sure to keep your ears as dry as possible after swimming or bathing.
Have Regular Checkups and Hearing Exams
Most ear conditions and hearing loss develop gradually. Because of this, it’s imperative to have annual hearing consultations with the experts at North Shore Hearing P.C. We will be able to recognize signs of hearing loss or other ear conditions and take the appropriate steps to treat them.
It should be noted though that sometimes prevention isn’t enough, and you should know when to schedule an appointment at North Shore Hearing P.C or speak to your primary care physician.
When Should I Seek Medical Attention (And What For)?
When it comes to your ears, time is always of the essence. If you notice any symptoms that could indicate a serious problem with your ears it is best to see a doctor as soon as possible. Here are some of the most common symptoms that should lead you to seek medical attention for an ear problem:
- Prolonged ringing in your ears
- Frequently needing to ask people to repeat themselves
- Frequent earaches or headaches
For more signs of ear problems and/or hearing loss, read “Can You Hear Me Now? Early Symptoms of Hearing Loss.”
Contact North Shore Hearing P.C. for Ear Condition Treatment
If you have problems with your ears, you have nothing to lose and everything to gain by reaching out to the hearing specialists at North Shore Hearing P.C. Even if you have no noticeable symptoms of hearing loss, it’s always a great idea to schedule a baseline hearing test.
A baseline hearing test is engineered to detect hearing abnormalities as early as possible. In doing so, we will be able to streamline and expedite treatment, which can help preserve your hearing.
Contact North Shore Hearing P.C. today.
