The urban city lifestyle has brought convenience and modernisation to people’s lives, but at what cost? Every single day a majority of people suffer from contagious diseases all because of the tampered condition of the environment. The levels of pollution in cities are at an alarming high, indicating harmful signs for the well-being of the city population. 

According to IQAir, “ Delhi, was ranked as the world’s third-most polluted country after neighbours Bangladesh and Pakistan”. States like Delhi, Uttar Pradesh, Bihar and Haryana have constantly been in the news for holding the titles of most polluted states of India. This choking monster has hampered the health of citizens on many levels, be it breathing issues, lung failures, eye problems and even hearing loss. 

Ever Thought Air Pollution Can Impact Your Hearing?

Only a few people know about the harmful impact of air pollution on their hearing abilities, therefore the chances of precautions or signs of early treatments are reduced. The internal structure of the human ear is designed very delicately, therefore any prolonged exposure to harmful air pollution components such as PM2.5, NO2, CO, and SO2 can result in Sudden Sensorineural Hearing Loss (SSHL) or any other hearing disability.  

If you are still wondering how can Air pollution in Delhi NCR hamper your ability to hear, let us explain it to you with a few points:

Effects of PM2.5: Fine particulate matter or PM2.5 in Air Pollution, is highly suspected to affect the hearing ability of people if exposed for a long period. These particles are harmful enough to cause systemic inflammation and oxidative stress by penetrating deep into the human lungs. 

More Polluting than Other States: When it comes to mapping pollution in India, Delhi-NCR tops the list every year without any tough competition. The yearly peak pollution in Delhi in Winter due to vehicle emissions, burning of crops and Smog is renowned at global level. As stated by WHO, “Breathing in these pollutants leads to inflammation, oxidative stress, immunosuppression, and mutagenicity in cells throughout our body, impacting the lungs”. 

High Chance of Infection: The fine chemical particles and lethal gasses like PM2.5, NO2, CO, and SO in Air Pollution drive high chances of ear infection. If not addressed at the right time, these infections are mighty enough to impact the hearing ability of any individual. 

Damage to the Internal Environment: Air pollution consists of gasses like nitrogen dioxide, which can create oxygen deprivation and moisture in the existing environment of inner ear structure. Not just this but these tiny chemicals can also damage the hair-like cells that transmit the received sound waves to your brain. 

Conclusion

Cities with alarming air pollution have recorded comparatively higher rates of hearing loss cases. However, with a little precaution, one can always reduce the chance of catching any ear infection or facing any hearing disability. When exposed to such surroundings, ensure to use earmuffs or earplugs, and when staying in, make sure to use an Air Purifier.

Even after all these precautions, if you still feel any symptoms, don’t become a doctor by yourself. Instead, consult a professional Hearing Professional Clinic like Clear Sound.

And just like this, you can eliminate the chances of getting your hearing ability impacted!