Hearing is one of our most important senses. It connects us to our loved ones, helps us enjoy music, nature and conversations, and keeps us safe by alerting us to dangers like car horns or alarms. Sadly, many people don’t think about their hearing health until it is too late. Once hearing is damaged, it usually cannot be fully restored. That’s why protecting your hearing should be a lifelong priority.
In this guide, you’ll learn why hearing health matters, how to spot early warning signs and the steps you can take to preserve your hearing for years to come.
Why hearing health deserves attention?
We often take our hearing for granted, but hearing loss has a big impact on daily life. It makes simple things harder, like talking to friends or watching TV. It can also cause feelings of loneliness, anxiety or even depression because people with hearing loss sometimes avoid social activities.
Hearing loss is very common, especially as people get older, but it can affect anyone. Loud noises, injuries, infections or certain medicines can all damage hearing. In some cases, hearing problems are also caused by ageing, which is called presbycusis.
Know the warning signs of hearing damage
Here are some common warning signs:
- Struggling to follow conversations, especially in noisy places
- Frequently asking people to repeat themselves
- Thinking that others are mumbling
- Turning up the TV or radio louder than others prefer
- Missing doorbells, phone rings or alarms
- Hearing ringing or buzzing in your ears (this is called tinnitus)
If you notice any of these problems, it is wise to have a hearing test. Hearing tests are quick and painless. They can spot any loss early and help you decide on the next steps.
Treatments for hearing loss
Let’s look at the most common treatments:
- Hearing aids
Hearing aids are the most common treatment. They are small devices that sit in or behind your ear and make sounds louder and clearer. Nowadays, hearing aids are more compact and comfortable. Some are almost invisible, and many can connect to your phone or TV with Bluetooth.
A hearing specialist will help you choose the best hearing aid for your needs and teach you how to use and care for it.
- Cochlear implants
For people with extreme hearing loss, a cochlear implant might help. Unlike hearing aids, which amplify the sounds, cochlear implants send signals straight to the hearing nerve. This device requires surgery, but it can bring back some sense of sound for those who cannot benefit from hearing aids.
However, the cost of a cochlear implant can be quite high, as it includes the surgery, the device and ongoing follow-up care. Most of the senior citizen health insurance policies cover the expense of the cochlear implant.
- Assistive listening devices
There are also special devices to help you hear better in specific situations. For example, a phone amplifier can make phone calls clearer. Loop systems in public spaces like churches or theatres can help people with hearing aids hear the performance better.
Tips to protect your hearing
Here are some simple habits to protect your hearing:
- Keep the volume down: If you use earphones or headphones, follow the 60/60 rule. Listen at 60% of maximum volume and for no more than 60 minutes at a time.
- Use ear protection: Wear earplugs or earmuffs if you work in noisy places or go to loud concerts.
- Take listening breaks: Give your ears regular rest from loud sounds.
- Stay away from loud noises: If you need to shout over the noise to talk, it is probably too loud.
- Check the volume at home: Keep TVs, radios and speakers at a comfortable volume.
- Have regular hearing tests: Just like eye tests, hearing checks can spot problems early.
Children should also be protected from loud noise. Their ears are very sensitive, and too much noise at a young age can cause lifelong hearing problems.
Conclusion
Your hearing deserves care and attention throughout your life. Damaged hearing is usually permanent. If you notice any problems with your hearing, do not wait. Get it checked and explore the treatments available. Modern hearing aids and other devices can make a huge difference.
While you focus on protecting your hearing health, it is also wise to plan for other unexpected illnesses or injuries. You can get guidance on health insurance options that may support you in managing future medical needs. Simply fill in the form on this page to receive tailored policy advice to suit your lifestyle and help you stay prepared.
FAQs
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Can loud music damage my hearing?
Yes. Listening to music at higher volumes, especially through headphones, can damage the small hair cells in your inner ear. These cells do not grow back, so the hearing loss is permanent.
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Is hearing loss just part of getting older?
Not always. While age-related hearing loss is common, noise, infections and injuries can cause hearing problems at any age.
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How often should I have my hearing tested?
Adults should have a hearing check every few years, or sooner if they notice problems. People who work in noisy jobs may need yearly tests.
Tinnitus is a ringing, buzzing or whistling sound in your ears that only you can hear. It is often a sign of hearing damage.
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Can I prevent hearing loss?
You cannot always prevent hearing loss from ageing, but you can protect your hearing from loud noise and other risks. Wear ear protection, keep the volume down and have regular checks.
Disclaimer: The information provided in this blog is for educational and informational purposes only. It is not intended as a substitute for professional advice, diagnosis or treatment. Please consult a certified medical and/or nutrition professional for any questions. Relying on any information provided in this blog is solely at your own risk and ICICI Lombard is not responsible for any effects or consequences resulting from the use of the information shared.