Golf and Hearing

Golf and Hearing

Hearing loss is commonly known as a problem for the elderly. However, new research indicates that sports such as golf may pose a threat to your hearing at a younger age than you imagined. Hearing impairment often results over an extended period of time of being exposed to loud noises. However, sudden, sharp, high-pitched noises can also damage hearing. These damages can result out of sudden environmental outbursts such as explosions, gunshots, or the harsh sound that results from a golf club as it smashes into a golf ball.

Sound is measured in decibels (dB) and a regular conversation is known to occur between 60 to 70 dB. Any noise over 85dB can result in temporary or permanent hearing loss, especially if there is continued exposure to these loud noises. The volume level at rock concerts tend to exceed 130dB and can damage your hearing. Similarly, a golfer’s “ping” that results from the contact between a titanium golf club and the hard golf ball can generate a sudden, sharp sound that exceeds 120dB.

To prevent hearing loss it is imperative to provide ample protection to your ears when exposing yourself to extremely loud sounds. You can do this through the use of earplugs or noise-eliminating headphones. These can be used even when you play golf to help prevent sudden exposure to loud noises during golfing. Noisy work environments can also lead to hearing loss, thus ensure that you have adequate safety equipment to protect your ears.

It can be difficult to decide whether people are experiencing genuine hearing loss. Certain factors can be taken into account when making this decision. If you have trouble hearing conversations clearly, have difficulty in hearing sounds over the phone, or constantly increase the volume on the radio or television to the point where it annoys other people, you may have hearing difficulties. If you miss the specific details made during important meetings or announcements or keep missing out on certain sounds, such as high-pitched voices or low, dull sounds you may be suffering from hearing loss. If you have experienced one or more of the above mentioned symptoms, consult an audiologist today to explore your hearing aid options.

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