It’s easy to take your ears for granted when they’re functioning properly. However, external forces beyond the natural aging process can lead to hearing loss that requires the use of custom hearing aids. If you’re looking for ways to prevent the loss of your hearing in the future, here are a few risk factors you should be aware of. 

Top 3 Risk Factors for Hearing Loss

1. On-Going Exposure to Loud Noises

Do you enjoy listening to music at high volumes in your headphones or attending live concerts? Does your work environment require the use of loud machinery? On-going exposure to loud noises can lead to hearing loss or tinnitus, a condition in which individuals hear a constant ringing. To avoid this situation, protect your ears by wearing earplugs and listening to your favorite songs or television programs at a reasonable level. 

2. Viral Infections

Viral infections like measles and mumps can wreak havoc on your body. One common symptom of these infections is inflammation of the inner ear and associated blood vessels. If left untreated, this can result in hearing loss. 

3. Medications

Hearing loss is a known side effect for a variety of medications, including aspirin, anti-inflammatory drugs like ibuprofen, chemotherapy drugs, and antibiotics. Before starting a new medication, talk to your primary care physician and a trusted audiologist about your concerns. 

Heartland Better Hearing Inc in Elizabethtown, KY, is a proud member of The Hearing Aid Association of Kentucky and has earned an A+ rating from the Better Business Bureau®. If you’re looking for custom hearing aids from a hearing instrument specialist with over 22 years of experience, call their office today at (270) 735-9352. For more information on how they can help curb symptoms related to hearing loss and improve your overall quality of life, visit their website.