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December 04, 2024December 17, 2024
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Healthy Hearing in Pope County

Audiologist Rebecca Younk at GRHSBy Dr. Rebecca Younk, Au.D., Audiologist, Outreach Services in Glenwood

When you ask a group of people to think of a noisy place to live, you will often hear “New York City, Chicago, Minneapolis”– big city traffic full of emergency sirens and continuous construction zones. Yes, cities tend to be noisier than smaller towns, but the residents of rural areas are more likely to develop hearing loss due to noisy occupations and hobbies that are more common in those areas of the United States.

According to a study published this year, 11% of the US population is affected by hearing loss. For those in rural areas, that percentage is much higher. It is estimated that the rate of hearing loss in Pope County is over 19%.

Why is hearing loss more common in Pope County?

There are four major factors putting residents of Pope County more at risk of developing hearing loss.

  • Veteran Status – It is estimated that 10% of the population are Veterans – 1.5 times greater than the rate in the United States. It is safe to say most members of the military are routinely exposed to high levels of noise. As a matter of fact, tinnitus, which is often associated with noise exposure and hearing loss, is the number one disability among Veterans.
  • Age – Over 21% of Pope County residents are over the age of 65. Unfortunately, hearing loss becomes more prevalent as we age.
  • Occupational Exposure – Manufacturing is the largest occupational sector in Pope County. In addition, there are more than 800 farms. These occupations are frequently associated with high levels of sound, which puts residents at risk of developing hearing loss.
  • Recreational Activities – Although fun, many popular activities can cause damage to your hearing. Firearms, motorsports, power tools, and attending concerts and sporting events are all associated with higher levels of hearing loss.

How can I prevent hearing loss?

To prevent hearing loss, always use hearing protection when you know you will be exposed to high levels of sound. The simple rule of thumb is that if you must shout to be heard, you should wear hearing protection. If you notice your ears are ringing after an activity, this is a sign that the noise was too loud and can cause damage to your hearing.

If you have concerns about hearing loss, ask your healthcare provider for a referral to an audiologist. It is best to seek treatment to address the issue early. Understanding the quality of your hearing and education to help prevent further hearing loss is the first step to enhancing your quality of life. Hearing assessments by a licensed audiologist and hearing aid rejuvenation and restoration are also available to ensure you aren’t missing out on the sounds and conversations that are important to you.