Stop Smoking To Stop Hearing Loss
Common causes of hearing loss are aging and too much exposure to loud noise. However, research shows that there is an awful connection between smoking and hearing loss. Recent studies warn smokers that they are at a higher risk of developing hearing loss than non-smokers and giving up smoking is an important factor in order to stop hearing loss.
The cochlea of the ear gathers the sounds and transmits them to the brain. The brain, of course, processes and interprets the transmitted information. This very important function of the cochlea is adversely affected by smoking, as it interferes with the proper flow of blood to the ears. This obstruction can then lead to the condition of hearing loss. For this reason and many others, it is of utmost importance to quit smoking.
Much like the effects of loud noise, hearing loss has also been found to be in direct proportion to the intensity and the duration of exposure to cigarette smoke. As the amount of cigarette smoke to which a person is exposed to increases, the probability of hearing damage also increases. Sadly, hearing loss may also be suffered by passive smokers or those who do not smoke by themselves, but live with or are near to those who do.
It is always a good point to quit smoking to be able to stop hearing loss, as well as to avoid its many other health hazards. The battle against smoking may be long and demanding, but with determination and self-discipline, this battle can be won. A detailed and specific action plan must be prepared, and you must resolve to stick to it.
You can also involve your family and friends. Ask them to check on your progress every so often, and lead you back on track if and when you go off the plan. It also helps to create a support team or join an already existing one. Being in a group of hopeful quitters could be very helpful, as the team members can get the much needed support and understanding from people who are experiencing the same ordeal. This makes the effort to quit smoking less difficult. You must be able to identify the difference between having faith that you can go through it and being too sure, almost arrogant, that you can do it all by yourself. One can never underestimate the strength of a good support group.
Stress, depression, alcohol and friends who smoke may be stumbling blocks in this process, but learn to acknowledge them. Knowing the possible barriers makes the job half done.
Quitting smoking is a process, which is not easy, but not that difficult either. Put your mind on the goal and see that the rewards are endless, and being able to stop hearing loss is only one of them.
