Needless to say, living in a rural area offers countless joys, from the tranquility of nature to the satisfaction of hands-on work. Plus, there’s not as much stimulation, and that alone is fantastic. Plus, just think about all there is to do, so whether you’re gardening, farming, doing some chores, or enjoying other outdoor activities, maintaining your hearing health is crucial.
Actually, that doesn’t even emphasize the sheer importance of all of this! Now, believe it or not, some of these more quiet and calming activities can impact your hearing health. Sure, it makes total sense if indoor activities like blasting the TV could impact hearing health, but how do outdoor activities do that?
Well, they can! So, with that said, what do you need to know? Well, it’s all about being aware and taking some precautions, so here’s exactly what you need to know!
The Sounds of Nature (and Machinery)
Ah, the symphony of nature: birds chirping, leaves rustling, and the occasional moo from a distant cow. These sounds are part of the charm of rural life, right? However, mix in the roar of a tractor, the buzz of a lawnmower, or the whine of a chainsaw, and you’ve got a recipe for potential hearing damage. So, it’s really going to depend on what you’re doing.
For example, if you’re just sitting outside and neighbors are using their tractor from far away, sure, that won’t affect your hearing at all. But if you’re the one that’s on your tractor, then by all means, you can expect that to make an impact! When using machinery, like a tractor, chainsaw, or anything loud, you’re going to have to wear ear protection!
Gear Up with Ear Protection
One of the best strategies for managing tinnitus and keeping your hearing safe is using protection. It was briefly mentioned right above, but this should be really pressed on! Earplugs or earmuffs designed to reduce noise can make a world of difference.
You have to keep in mind that they’re especially handy when you’re using loud machinery (like that tractor mentioned before). Technically, if you’re doing anything outside when it’s cold, whether it’s walking, exercising, or even doing outdoor chores, you should be covering up your ears (for warmth) since cold air can also cause tinnitus.
Take Breaks and Vary Activities
This one is a massive surprise, right? Well, your ears, like the rest of your body, need a break now and then. If you’re using noisy equipment, try to limit continuous exposure by taking regular breaks. Actually, just try to switch up your activities to give your ears a rest.
For example, after mowing the lawn, spend some time weeding or planting. This not only helps protect your hearing but also gives you a chance to enjoy different aspects of your outdoor work. Even if you’re doing something loud inside the house, it’s the same concept.
Mind the Volume of Your Tunes
Are you the type of person who prefers to listen to music while they do chores or activities like walking? Well, many people love to listen to music while working outdoors. It’s a great way to make tasks more enjoyable, but be mindful of the volume. If you’re using headphones, keep the volume at a safe level. That alone sounds generic, right?
Well, sometimes, the most generic of advice is true! For the most part, noise-canceling headphones can be a great investment, as they allow you to enjoy your music without cranking up the volume to drown out background noise.
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