According to the World Health Organization (WHO), “Over 1 billion young adults are at risk of permanent, avoidable hearing loss due to unsafe listening practices.” This includes going to concerts without being adequately prepared. Below we review how to protect your hearing during a concert.
Wear Hearing Protection
Perhaps the number one thing you can do to protect your hearing while at a concert is to wear hearing protection. There are many options available, including:
- Disposable earplugs. Available in foam or silicone, these are available at any drugstore.
- Earmuffs. These are worn over your ears and can be found at big box stores, particularly sporting goods stores. They are the preferred option for children, though adults could benefit as well.
- Musician’s plugs. Though a little more expensive, these are a great option for concert aficionados. They block dangerously loud sounds without sacrificing sound quality.
- Custom earplugs. These are made from an impression taken of your ear and are available at San Diego Hearing Center’s office. The benefits are maximum comfort and protection.
Take Listening Breaks
If you feel that you’re experiencing auditory overload, you should take listening breaks. This means going out to the concessions area or into the restroom for a few minutes to let your ears rest.
Stay Away from the Speakers
If it’s a general admission concert, choose a spot away from the speakers. If you have to buy a seat in advance, study the diagram of the concert venue to see if they show where the speakers are. Avoid sitting near them if you can.
Attend Outdoor Concerts
Outdoor concerts are safer than indoor ones because the sound does not reverberate around as much. If you can, try to attend outdoor concerts rather than indoor ones.
Limit Alcohol Consumption
Another factor that can affect your hearing is how much alcohol you drink. Alcohol has been linked to a phenomenon known as “cocktail deafness,” and paired with a loud concert, can definitely affect your hearing ability in the hours after.
Rest Your Ears Before & After
Loudness isn’t the only factor that can contribute to hearing loss, but also duration. If you’re planning to attend a concert, take it easy on your ears in the days before and after the concert by enjoying quieter activities.
For more information or to schedule an appointment for hearing testing, call San Diego Hearing Center today.