Understanding the Impact of Fall Allergies on Hearing Loss

Hearing loss is something that can impact many people at any age, whether it’s caused by the aging process, genetics, noise damage or trauma to the head or ears. There are some that may experience temporary hearing loss, particularly when it comes to allergies. While the fall isn’t always the most thought-of season when it comes to allergies, there are many lingering allergens that can still cause issues with your sinuses and hearing.

Understanding the impact allergies can have on your hearing will enable you to take better care of your overall wellbeing during the fall season, which in turn, will keep your hearing healthy, as well.

What Common Fall Allergies Affect Hearing?

Hay fever is something that can remain active into the fall season. Hearing difficulties associated with hay fever occur when the ragweed in the air irritates your sinuses, causing inflammation and swelling to impact your auditory system. While its peaks are usually within the summer months, they can also occur within the fall months.

A lot of the mold spores that are released when humidity is high, can also be released when the weather is dry and windy. For example, going for a walk and kicking up fall leaves can stir any pollen and set off your allergies. There are also other environments where irritants and allergies can be impacted, such as school environments and veterinary practices for example. From chalk dust to pet dander, these allergies may cause some irritation to your ears.

What Hearing Loss Symptoms Can Allergens Cause?

When it comes to fall allergies, what symptoms can you expect to experience? Well, depending on the severity of your allergies will likely influence just how badly the hearing loss becomes. Here are some typical allergy-related symptoms you might experience when it comes to your hearing and ears in general.

• • Itchy and swollen ears
  • Earache and pain in the ear

Blocked ears

• A feeling of being imbalanced
• What to do with fall allergies that cause hearing loss

Temporary hearing loss experienced during allergy seasons can notably improve once the underlying allergies are effectively addressed. This improvement is attributed to the reduction in inflammation and congestion within the ear canal and sinuses, which play a significant role in obstructing sound waves and compromising hearing. As allergies are managed and symptoms alleviate, the ear can regain its natural functionality.

Preventing Allergy-Related Hearing Loss

Preventing allergy-related hearing loss involves a combination of proactive measures and seeking professional guidance. First and foremost, identifying specific allergens triggering reactions is crucial. So, what’s the best thing to do with fall allergies that cause hearing loss? Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to tackle it in order to get rid of the problem quickly.

Take Off Outside Clothing and Wash It

Following outdoor exposure to pollen, it’s important to be cautious about bringing it indoors inadvertently. Refrain from wearing the same clothing you had outside within the confines of your home. This practice can lead to pollen particles becoming embedded in your carpets, rugs, upholstery, and even your bed. These minuscule particles have a knack for finding their way into various nooks and crannies. To prevent this, consider changing into fresh clothes before entering your home.

Keep Windows and Doors Closed

Keeping windows and doors closed is a fundamental strategy in creating an allergen-resistant environment. By sealing off these potential entry points, you effectively reduce the risk of these irritants infiltrating your living space. This practice is particularly crucial in areas with high vegetation or near sources of water, where allergen levels can be notably elevated.

Keep Your Home Clean

A clean living space is fundamental in combating fall allergies. Regularly dusting surfaces with a damp cloth is a practical strategy to deter the buildup of allergens such as dust mites, pollen, and pet dander. This method effectively traps and removes these irritants, preventing them from becoming airborne and reducing potential allergic reactions. Likewise, incorporating routine vacuuming into your cleaning regimen will also combat allergens. Using a vacuum cleaner with strong suction power, thoroughly vacuuming carpets, rugs and upholstery helps dislodge and capture allergens deeply embedded in fibers.

Speak to an Audiologist

If you’re worried about fall allergies causing problems with your hearing and want more advice, then get in touch with Bluegrass Hearing Clinic. We can help provide solutions to make this time of year, less of a nuisance for you! Give us a call at (859) 295-5729 for more information.