The Impact of Lifestyle Factors on Hearing Test Results

There are many factors that lead to hearing loss. Hearing loss can happen as a result of underlying health conditions, exposure to loud noise and lifestyle factors. Making certain lifestyle changes can dramatically reduce the risks of developing hearing loss. Here are some lifestyle factors that can impact the results of hearing tests.

Smoking

Research has shown that even secondhand smoke can have a negative effect on hearing health. That being said, it’s no surprise that smoking can have an even worse effect. Smoking can damage blood pressure and the central nervous system, both of which are linked to healthy hearing. If you want to protect your hearing health now and in the future, cutting down on or cutting out smoking from your lifestyle could improve your chances of good hearing health.

Lack of Exercise

A lack of exercise increases the risk of health conditions like diabetes, heart disease and certain types of cancer. Hearing loss is often linked to conditions like these, and audiologists have to work together with general practitioners to offer overall health treatments. Regular exercise is a great way to reduce the risk of hearing problems caused by underlying health conditions. Just twenty minutes of aerobic exercise everyday could significantly improve your overall health and protect your hearing health long term.

Lack of Sleep

A poor sleep routine results in poor overall health. Not only can it affect mental health, but it takes its toll on physical health too, including hearing health. When an individual doesn’t get enough sleep, they’re at increased risk of developing illness and health conditions. Getting into a good sleep routine is one of the best things you can do for your overall health. Most adults need at least seven to eight hours of sleep each night to ensure the body has rapid eye movement (REM) sleep and rest to recover from anything that attacks it.

Noise Levels

Noise-induced hearing loss can happen when you are exposed to loud noises. If you work in a loud environment, you should be offered protective headphones or earplugs to protect your hearing. Going to concerts regularly or listening to loud music can damage your ears. It only takes one exposure to loud noise to affect your hearing. Before exposing yourself to too much noise, think about your ear health. Wearing hearing protection can make a huge difference when it comes to hearing test results.

Regular Hearing Tests

Scheduling regular hearing tests with an audiologist will help you to understand your hearing health. If your audiologist picks up on any hearing loss, it’s a good opportunity to discuss how lifestyle changes could make a difference. Your audiologist will be able to advise you on lifestyle changes that could make a difference to your hearing health.

In addition, getting the treatment you need for your hearing loss will ensure you can have the best quality of life moving forward. Contact your audiologist to make an appointment for a hearing test today.