7 Unusual Things That Can Affect a Person's Ability to Hear

When you were younger, your parents probably told you not to listen to loud music, warning that it could damage your hearing, right?

The truth is, whether we’re kids or even adults, we often develop certain habits that may seem harmless at first but can seriously affect our health over time.

Many of these everyday practices, which we might indulge in regularly—even daily—can quietly put our well-being at risk. For instance, some people continue to eat excessive amounts of salty food without realizing it can lead to high blood pressure. Others spend hours glued to computers or gadgets, straining their eyes in the process.

Similarly, there are habits and conditions that can impact our hearing. And since hearing is one of the body’s most vital senses, any impairment can significantly change a person’s quality of life.

Here are a few surprising things that may affect your hearing ability:

# Diabetes

This metabolic disorder can damage blood vessels, including those linked to the auditory nerves, leading to reduced hearing.

# Blow Dryers

Believe it or not, research suggests that prolonged use of blow dryers producing noise above 85 decibels may contribute to hearing loss.

# Loud Music

People in the music industry or those who frequently attend loud concerts and use high-range audio devices are at higher risk of early hearing impairment.

# Clogged Earwax

Neglecting to clean excessive earwax can cause buildup, muffling sounds and affecting hearing.

# Certain Medications

Some strong antibiotics and chemotherapy drugs list hearing impairment as a potential side effect.

# High Fever

Inflammation in the body during severe fever, sometimes affecting the ears, may temporarily reduce hearing ability.

# Traffic Noise

Living in bustling cities with constant honking and heavy traffic exposes you to noise pollution that can gradually damage your hearing.