Hear well. Speak well. Live well.

Hearing loss can be caused by a number of factors including exposure to loud noises, head injury, ototoxic medications, recurrent ear infections, illnesses, heredity and aging.

Yes — occupational hearing loss is a common cause of hearing loss globally. Occupations like factory jobs, construction work, grinding, motorcycle riding, flight crew and every occupation that requires prolonged exposure to noise can lead to hearing loss.

Hearing loss is a very common problem that affects approximately 8.5 million Nigerians. So if you have a hearing loss, you are not alone.

In most cases, hearing loss cannot be reversed, but it can be effectively managed — most commonly with hearing aids, and in some cases with medical treatment, therapy or other interventions. A hearing assessment determines what is appropriate for your type and degree of hearing loss.

Hearing loss can be prevented by reducing exposure to loud noise, being careful with drugs that cause hearing loss, taking care when listening to music, taking precautions at work and getting your hearing tested regularly.

Turn the volume down; do not insert cotton wool or sharp objects into the ear; take medications only as directed; report itching, discharge and pains in the ear to an audiologist or doctor; report wax build-up to an audiologist or doctor; and keep your ears dry.