The number of people suffering from hearing problems is on the rise, either due to being exposed to loud noises without protection or the constant use of potentially harmful volume headphones. The latter can become very dangerous, as it can not only cause problems of stress, anxiety or alterations in the nervous system, but it would also irreversibly reduce hearing capacity. On this occasion, Dr. Francisco Salaverry, otorhinolaryngologist at Clinica Ricardo Palma, will give us more information on the matter.

Why is it so important to take care of our hearing health?

The ear, organ of hearing and balance, is one of the senses highly related to communication and of vital importance for interpersonal relationships and learning. That is why we must not neglect its care, any damage to the auditory nerve due to noise cannot be cure, excessive exposure to noise causes damage to the inner ear, consequently, causing hearing loss and tinnitus (ringing of the hearing).

Recommendations to improve hearing health

• Avoid loud sounds caused by blows, car horns, constructions, speakers, among others. If in any case it is unavoidable to be exposed to them, it is best to use earplugs to isolate the noise
• Use a moderate volume level when watching television, listening to the radio, stereos or music players
• Keep your ears clean by washing and drying them during personal hygiene. However, it is important to remember that some wax is necessary to maintain the balance of the ear and protect it from infection
• Avoid the use of swabs, as they are not recommended for cleaning the ears, their excessive use can cause local infections or the appearance of fungi in the external auditory canal (Otomycosis)
• Do not apply drops or home remedies in the ear cavity without first being prescribed by a doctor. If you have any discomfort see a specialist
• Use headphones that cover the ear, these are less harmful and the more they isolate outside noise, the better
• In case of using headphones, let it be for a maximum of 08 hours a day, at a moderate volume that does not exceed 40 decibels. Noises above 85 decibels can cause gradual and irreparable hearing damage, which could mean total hearing loss

Excessive noise exposure also contributes to heart conditions, learning difficulties, sleep disturbances, or even depression. Do not wait to go to the doctor when the problem is serious and the loss of hearing is important.

Dr. Francisco Salaverry
Otorhinolaryngologist at Clínica Ricardo Palma