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Tips for Cycling with Hearing Loss

by Joann Dunn

If you are a cyclist who has developed hearing impairment, you may experience some challenges related to your hearing impairment. Here are three examples of such challenges and what you can do to mitigate them.

Wind Noise May Worsen Your Hearing Impairment

According to research, the wind noise experienced by cyclists can cause hearing loss. The risk of developing noise-induced hearing loss increases with the volume of the noise, which means cycling into headwinds or cycling at high speed can be especially dangerous for you. This noise can damage the hearing of cyclists with good hearing, so you can imagine what it can do to you if you are already dealing with impaired hearing. Regular exposure to such noises, especially for prolonged periods, isn't good for you.

You May Not Hear Sounds from Other Road Users

Another complication of cycling with hearing loss is that you may not hear sounds from other road users. Emergency vehicles, motorcyclists, pedestrians, and other road users usually generate noise that gives you clues on the happenings around you. For example, you know you need to get out of the way when you hear sirens, but this may not be easy if your hearing is impaired.

You May Find It Difficult to Engage with Fellow Cyclists

Some people enjoy cycling as a solo activity while others consider it a social activity. If you enjoy cycling as a social activity, then you may find it difficult to continue enjoying this if you have a hearing impairment. Your hearing impairment, coupled with the noise generated by the wind, can make it difficult to join in your cycling group's banter.

Coping with the Problems

The complications above don't mean that you need to stop cycling if you develop hearing impairment. You can continue cycling as long as you know how to cope with the noise. Here are some coping mechanisms to try.

  • Wear helmets to block out wind noise.
  • Ask your audiologist for a set of hearing aids specifically meant for your cycling escapades; this set should be set should be programmed to pick up sounds from all around you.
  • Increase your visual awareness of the environment so that you don't have to rely on sounds so much.
  • Add a mirror to your handlebar to improve your visual cues.

Hopefully, these tips will help you improve your safety while cycling and also make you enjoy it more. However, if you haven't heard your hearing impairment diagnosed, it's time to make an appointment with an ENT. You might just be lucky enough to find that your impairment is treatable.


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Pregnant? What You Need to Know About Your Pregnancy

During my first pregnancy, I spent a lot of time pushing pillows behind my back trying to find comfort. As the size of the baby grew, so did my discomfort. By the time she was born, I was more than ready to give birth. When I found out I was pregnant again, I was determined that I would not suffer through the same discomforts. I started researching ways to ease the symptoms of pregnancy, including back pain. I created this blog to help other expectant moms find remedies to deal with those symptoms that can be emotionally and physically draining.

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