Summer invites us outdoors for activities that energize the senses—but the season’s sounds, while enjoyable, can sometimes be harmful. Whether it’s splashing in the pool, rocking out at a music festival, or celebrating with fireworks, your ears are exposed to more hazards than you might think. Thankfully, with a little awareness and a few simple steps, you can protect your hearing all summer long.
Water-related ear infections are especially common this time of year. When water lingers in the ear canal after swimming, it creates the perfect environment for bacteria to grow. This often leads to swimmer’s ear—a painful infection that’s easily preventable. Custom swim plugs are an excellent choice for frequent swimmers. After swimming, gently dry your ears using a towel or let gravity help by tilting your head from side to side. Avoid inserting anything into your ears, including cotton swabs, which can do more harm than good. If you use hearing aids, be sure to remove them before entering the water and store them in a protective, moisture-resistant container.
Summer also comes with a soundtrack of its own: live music, community celebrations, and booming fireworks. These events, while exciting, can put your hearing at risk. Prolonged exposure to high noise levels—anything over 85 decibels—can cause noise-induced hearing loss. To prevent damage, wear earplugs designed for musicians or concerts. They allow you to enjoy the sound without the harmful volume. Try to position yourself farther from speakers or sound sources, and remember to take breaks in quieter areas to give your ears time to recover.
Fireworks, in particular, can be incredibly loud—often louder than a jet engine. Even one close-range blast can result in permanent hearing damage. For safe viewing, watch fireworks from at least 500 feet away. Children and noise-sensitive adults should wear earmuffs for extra protection. It’s always safer to attend professionally organized displays rather than setting off fireworks at home.
Finally, keep your ears in mind while traveling. Flying can cause ear discomfort due to rapid pressure changes, especially during takeoff and landing. Filtered earplugs can help manage this discomfort. And if you use hearing aids, make sure to travel with everything you need—extra batteries, a charger, and a secure carrying case.
If you notice any symptoms like ringing in the ears, decreased hearing, or a feeling of fullness after summer activities, it may be a sign that your ears need attention.
This summer, make hearing health part of your wellness routine. Book a hearing exam and ask about protective solutions tailored to your lifestyle. Summer is a season to enjoy—make sure you’re hearing every moment clearly and safely.
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