Jahangeer Ganaie
Srinagar, Mar 3: To safeguard your ears and prevent hearing loss, doctors have called for reducing noise exposure, avoiding medications without a doctor’s prescription and maintaining cardiovascular health.
Dr Saima, an ENT specialist at GMC Srinagar, said that hearing loss is increasingly linked to environmental and lifestyle factors, with noise exposure being a primary concern.
“Limiting exposure to loud sounds can significantly reduce the risk of noise-induced hearing loss (NIHL), regardless of age or hearing status,” she said.
Beyond noise, certain medications can also contribute to hearing loss. “There are hundreds of over-the-counter and prescription drugs known to cause hearing impairment. These ototoxic drugs can permanently damage hearing, so it is crucial to consult a doctor before taking any medication,” Dr Saima advised.
She highlighted the importance of cardiovascular health, saying that conditions such as high blood pressure, heart disease and cholesterol imbalances can affect the tiny blood vessels in the inner ear and lead to hearing difficulties.
“Those with high cholesterol or hypertension are at a higher risk of hearing loss. Studies also show that diabetics are twice as likely to suffer from hearing impairments,” she added.
Dr Shabir, another ENT specialist, said that smoking and alcohol consumption have been linked to hearing problems. “Cigarette smoke can have a significant impact on hearing health, while excessive alcohol intake can generate free radicals that are toxic to the inner ear,” he said.
A healthy lifestyle, including regular exercise and stress management, is crucial for good hearing. “Exercise improves blood circulation, benefiting overall ear health,” he said.
Similarly, a balanced diet rich in vitamins and minerals plays a vital role in maintaining good hearing. “Nutrients like Vitamin B12, potassium, magnesium, and iron contribute to healthy hearing function,” Dr Shabir added.
Dr Aamir Yousuf, Head of the ENT Department at GMC Anantnag, said that the widespread use of earphones and headphones, especially among teenagers and young adults, has become a significant public health concern.
“Prolonged exposure to high-volume music or audio through earphones can damage the delicate hair cells in the cochlea, leading to irreversible hearing loss,” he said.
“Studies have shown that listening to audio at volumes above 85 decibels (dB) for extended periods can cause sensorineural hearing loss (SNHL). Many young people regularly exceed this threshold, often unaware of the long-term consequences,” he added.
Dr Aamir said that recent surveys indicate that over 60% of youth use earphones for more than two hours daily, with 30% listening at volumes exceeding safe limits.
The WHO recommends the “60/60 rule”: listening at no more than 60% volume for no longer than 60 minutes at a time, he said.
He added that neonatal hearing screening is a simple, non-invasive test performed within the first few days of life to identify hearing impairments.
“Early detection allows for timely intervention, such as hearing aids, cochlear implants, or speech therapy, which can significantly improve outcomes,” he said.
“Approximately 1 to 3 out of every 1,000 newborns have congenital hearing loss. Without screening, many cases go undetected until the child is 2-3 years old, delaying critical interventions,” Dr Aamir said.
Another ENT specialist from GMC Anantnag highlighted common symptoms of hearing impairment, including muffled speech and sounds, difficulty understanding conversations in noisy environments, trouble hearing consonants and frequent requests for people to speak louder or more clearly.
Causes of hearing loss include damage to the inner ear, ageing and prolonged exposure to loud noise, which can wear down the hair cells in the cochlea that send sound signals to the brain.
“When these hair cells or nerve cells are damaged, electrical signals are not transmitted properly, which results in hearing loss,” he said. “Earwax buildup, infections, eardrum injuries, nd sudden pressure changes can also contribute to hearing difficulties.”
By taking proactive measures, such as protecting ears from loud noises, seeking medical guidance before taking medications and maintaining a healthy lifestyle, individuals can preserve their hearing and overall well-being, the doctor added.
