The most common causes of hearing loss are old age and exposure to loud noises. But another cause you may not know about is sun exposure. Yes, exposure to UV rays can cause cancer, other damaging conditions, and hearing problems. We review this link below.
What Do the Studies Show?
One Japanese study of over 800 people over 65 sought to examine the relationship between sun exposure and hearing ability. To do this, researchers analyzed the participants’ facial skin condition with image analysis of standardized facial images. They also used audiometric tests to measure hearing ability.
What they found was a correlation between excessive skin exposure and hearing loss. “The results support the hypothesis that chronic sun exposure is a risk factor of hearing impairment,” the study authors explained.
Why Is there a Link?
Excessive exposure to UV rays found in harsh sunlight can increase oxidative stress, a condition that damages health and causes the body to age more rapidly.
Oxidative stress refers to an imbalance between free radicals and antioxidants. While free radicals are necessary to fight infections, they also break down fatty tissue, DNA and proteins in your body when not balanced with antioxidants. When free radicals break down your body, your hearing also suffers.
How Can I Protect Myself from the Sun?
The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services reports that one in three Americans gets sunburnt each year. A sunburn is a clear sign of overexposure to UV rays.
Protect yourself from dangerous, cancer-causing UV rays by:
- Applying sunscreen of at least 30 SPF daily, reapplying regularly when spending time outdoors, even if it’s cloudy.
- Wearing a wide-brimmed sun hat when working outside.
- Doing outdoor activities early in the morning and late in the evening.
- Avoiding tanning salons.
If you do happen to get sunburnt while enjoying time at Atla Loma Park, you should consume plenty of antioxidants to maintain balance by eating fruits and vegetables. You should also get plenty of sleep and exercise regularly. Applying aloe vera gel to your sunburn can also help increase antioxidants and neutralize free radicals in your body.
For more information or to schedule an appointment, call Torrance Audiology today.