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Pennsylvania Ear Institute

Cover Your Ears during the Big Game

  • 30 January 2019

Hearing Protection from PEIWhile the Eagles won’t be at this year’s Big Game, fans can still take a pointer from Saint Nick: protect your ears!

Last year, Foles’ daughter wore bright pink hearing protection during the Big Game – much to an audiologists’ pleasure. 

According to the American Academy of Audiology, noise levels at sporting events can reach up to 110 decibels. Noise levels this high can be dangerous after just 30 minutes of exposure.

The Pennsylvania Ear Institute (PEI) of Salus University wants you to know that if you plan on watching this year’s Big Game, either in person, at a bar, or at a party, no matter the team you support, things will get loud.

With the game just days away, here are some tips to protect yourself from noise-induced hearing loss, which can be temporary or permanent and can affect one or both ears.

  • Custom Hearing ProtectionPlan Ahead: Wearing ear plugs or ear molds is one of the easiest ways to protect your ears when exposed to noisy environments. Make sure they are inserted properly into your ear to ensure effective protection. If you attend sporting events or other loud venues on a regular basis, you can also invest in customizable devices. In the cold weather, be sure to bundle up. You can be more susceptible to hearing loss when you’re sick.
  • Keep your distance: Whether in the stands or in front of the big screen, most sports fans prefer to be seated as close as possible. While having a front row seat offers the best view, it can be the worst place for your ears. Watch out for those sneaky commercials which often ‘crank up’ the volume without you making any adjustments. Consider choosing a seat that keeps you a safe distance away from the source of the loud sound. 
  • Take a break: The longer the exposure to the loud noise, the greater the risk. If you’re at the game, you can head to the concession area or to the restroom. If you’re at a crowded Super Bowl party, you can step outside or go to a quieter room to give your ears a rest. Taking a break from the noise can decrease the chance of permanent hearing damage. Remember to use the 60/60 rule, especially when using earbuds, 60 minutes of listening at 60% max volume before taking a break.