What Does Autumn Mean For Sound?

What Does Autumn Mean for Sound?

Plus tips on keeping our ears healthy in autumn

Autumn isn't just a pretty sight for the eyes - it brings spectacular sounds with it too. However, this new season brings new challenges and with lower temperatures, it can have an effect on our body - especially our ears.  Here we take a look at the wonderful sounds of autumn and how to maintain good ear health.

Crunching leaves

At Hearing Aid UK, autumn is one of our favourite seasons for sound, and with the new innovative hearing aid technology of today - every sound just seems more amplified, more comfortable and more realistic.  A perfect example of this is Signia's Xperience.  With its 3D acoustic motion sensors, you can now hear your whole soundscape the way nature intended, while on the go. 

Xperience supports your hearing, so you can take in every bit of detail on autumnal walks - because who doesn't like the sound of fallen crispy leaves crunching underfoot?  Perhaps, you've just got your new hearing aids and are exploring old sounds anew - grab your wellies, wrap up and head out on an autumnal adventure!

During autumn a lot of people like to take this time to garden before the winter months kick in.  Although it is always nice to clear your garden of leaves, this time of year, doing so requires using loud gardening machinery. Remember to always wear ear protection, while you are using any leaf blowers or other noisy DIY tools.

Not just April showers

The sound of rain shows up in all seasons, here in the UK - but a sound we would miss if our hearing loss restricted us.  The pitta patta in puddles, leaves, trees and on rooftops are quite the mindful and calming listening experiences that sometimes we take for granted.

Due to our ears having no protective fat tissues they can cool down fast, therefore they are susceptible to cold and wet weather conditions.  There is only a thin layer of skin surrounding the nerves in your ear canal, so cold weather can cause ear pain.  Keeping your ears covered during cool weather prevents a reduction of blood flow and reduces the risk of ear pain or infection. 

On another note, it is important to remember that when you are wearing hearing aids, in wet weather conditions, there is more risk of getting moisture into them.  Moisture can be detrimental to hearing aids, so when the grey clouds come - put on a hat or use an umbrella to protect them.

Blowing in the wind

Autumnal winds can be quite a peaceful sound, but sometimes a strong and relentless one for the ears.  Most modern hearing aids are equipped for such environments, with 'WindNoise Management' and 'SmartWind Manager' like the Widex Moment, they adapt accordingly.  Ensuring your hearing remains clear and comfortable, even in challenging situations.  Therefore, you never miss the sounds of autumn or conversations while you stroll.

Remember, remember the 5th of November!

Nostalgic sounds such as a crackling bonfire and spectacular firework displays are all wonderful snippets of life and sound to experience.  It is important to adjust your hearing aid settings, so you can manage the changes in the sound atmosphere.

A great example of practical adjustable technology, built with easy alterations in mind, is the Starkey Livio Edge AI 2400. Using the 'Thrive' App you can easily and discreetly make any changes to your hearing aids with your smartphone, wherever you are.

Although great, these events bring noise, which ultimately affects our ear health.  We should always consider ear protection when partaking in these activities - and other events that expose you to sounds that are bigger than 80 decibels (dB).

 Autumn brings allergies

There are so many people who suffer from allergies when autumn arrives.  The symptoms from these allergies can make our ears 'full' and cause difficulty hearing or they might make our ears itch.  Whilst most symptoms can be treated and reduced with various medicines, they can lead to more serious issues for our ears.  This might be vertigo, tinnitus or increased pressure or increased fluid in the middle ear.

If you feel like you are missing out on the seasonal sounds or your hearing has altered, we advise that you seek professional help and get your hearing checked.

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