Should You Wear Earplugs While Vacuuming?

It’s a coincidence that I got my hearing checked for the first time since early girlhood during Better Hearing and Speech Month! I was visiting my ENT for a follow-up from a sinus surgery I had last year, and I just couldn’t stand not knowing about my hearing anymore. Yes, I’ve procrastinated.

There seems to be lots of encouragement out there to get regular eye exams, but not many people get hearing tests. Some insurance companies (like mine) don’t exactly encourage them either. While most hearing loss may not be reversible, it’s good to be examined since hearing loss may be a sign of other medical problems.

My ENT came back shortly after my test looking surprised. He asked me a series of questions, including, “Have you ever been around explosions?” Uh, no. Apparently though I have mild hearing loss in both ears. My doc believes it’s noise-induced, but there’s a chance it’s in my genes. If it’s really noise-induced, I’ll probably never know exactly what caused it. However, now I can better protect my hearing.

I’m supposed to wear earplugs while vacuuming or participating in other noisy activities. I honestly never considered wearing earplugs while cleaning carpet, but it’s good to be aware. While I initially felt disappointed in my diagnosis, I’m also glad I’m not still wondering if I’m hearing all I should. And knowledge is power, even your insurance company disagrees!

According to WebMd, hearing may be damaged over years by common activities like using lawn mowers, blenders or power tools. My advice: Wear some earplugs. They’re cheap.

When is the last time you had your hearing checked?

(Image via stock.xchng)