Prevention

So how do we protect and care for our hears so we don't loss our hearing at an early age? Hearing loss is permanent, once you have damage your hearing it won't come back to normal. People with hearing impairments could miss half of everything someone says, and what they can pick up requires a high level of concentration. Because of this they can become stressed, frustrated, unsure and withdrawn. They also cannot pick up the soft sounds that many take for granted such as a bird call, the swish of clothing, the softest breathing, the wind blowing and many more.

It is therefore very important to care and protect our ears from any damage. We can start by avoiding exposure to loud environmental noise, if you can't avoid them wear protective gear to dampen the noise. Loud bangs tend to be more damaging than continuous noise, particularly when they occur with no warning, which is mostly the case. [source: Australia Hearing]

Do not deliberately subject yourself to very high sound levels such as noisy machinery or loud rock concerts. Many teenagers now a days are glued to their ipads, always listening to loud music with their headphones. Things like this really compromises our ears.

Musicians are also at risk especially if they are constantly expose to loud music such as rock and heavy metal bands. There are special plugs which are available at the chemist or pharmacist that musicians can use to dampen the noise. Drummers should definitely use one as they are very close to the loud sound of the drums.

People should also be aware that risk increases if they are occupationally exposed to solvents or toxins or taking certain drugs. You can talk to your occupational health and safety officer at work about making your workshop quieter. It is important to remember that it is employer's responsibility to provide a safe work environment. You might also do your own research if you have any concerns about the medication you are taking or the chemicals you are expose to. Having such knowledge can be very empowering and can save you from hearing impairments.

If you are going to events such as discos, firework display or motor races where loud noises are unavoidable you can use earplugs to dampen the noise just make sure you fit them properly.