Hobbies are one of the most important elements in your lifestyle, enabling individuals to do the things we love. Not only can they be great for this reason, but hobbies can help with both your mental and physical health. From giving you a reason to exercise, to an opportunity to meet up with friends or loved ones, to a chance to have some time to yourself. Hobbies allow you to meet new people and create friendship groups, they also give you a way to de-stress and relax. Yet as with anything in life, it’s important you take the proper precautions to keep your health in check. So, what are the hobbies that require hearing protection?

Why is Hearing Protection so Important?

Some hobbies that you might do can make loud noises can pose a risk to your hearing. When you’re exposed to loud decibels, particularly over a period of time, it can cause long-term effects for your hearing. These can worsen over time and cause greater issues over the years. Exposure to loud noise can lead to noise-induced hearing loss, tinnitus, hyperacusis, physical discomfort in the ears, communication difficulties and the safety and communication barriers that hearing loss causes.

Shooting and Hunting

Guns produce extremely loud decibels of noise when shot which can damage your hearing. Ensure you wear ear defenders to help keep your ears protected from this. You can also wear custom-earplugs when hunting or shooting to protect your hearing from these loud noises.

Motorcycling

Motorcycle engines are loud as well as wind noise at high speeds. This can be harmful to your hearing over time, which is why you should look for specially designed earplugs. These reduce noise while also enabling you to hear sounds like sirens. If you are a motorcyclists contact an audiologist about what type of hearing protection you should wear to preserve your hearing health.

Doing Do-it-Yourself (DIY)

DIY hobbies often involve using loud tools which can reach harmful noise levels. Without proper hearing protection, these sounds can cause long-term hearing damage. It’s important to wear earplugs or earmuffs to protect your ears while working on DIY projects. This simple step ensures you can enjoy your hobbies safely without risking your hearing health.

Playing a Musical Instrument

Musical instruments, particularly if you play in a concentrated setting such as a band, can produce very high levels of noise. In-ear monitors or noise-cancelling earphones can help stop loud noises from risking your hearing.

Attending Concerts

Concerts produce one of the loudest levels of sound you can experience, particularly if you’re standing near the speakers and it’s an inside venue. It’s highly recommended you wear hearing protection even if you don’t go often, to help preserve your hearing.

These are some of the main hobbies that require hearing protection. To find out more about the best types of hearing protection and how to take care of your ears, schedule an appointment with an audiologist. They can help you to find the best solutions for you to continue enjoying your hobbies.