As football season kicks off this month, fans across the nation are gearing up to support their favorite teams. While the excitement of the game is undeniable, it's crucial to remember that all the cheering, shouting, and roaring from the crowd can have a significant impact on your hearing health. Whether you're watching the game in person or at a lively venue like a sports bar, understanding noise exposure risks and taking proactive steps to protect your hearing should be part of your game plan.

Noise Exposure Risks at Football Games

Football stadiums are known for their electrifying atmospheres. The roar of the crowd, blaring music, and the explosive energy of the game can create noise levels that far exceed safe limits. Prolonged exposure to these high noise levels can lead to noise-induced hearing loss (NIHL) and other hearing-related issues. Here are some key noise exposure risks to be aware of:

• Crowd Noise: Enthusiastic fans can produce noise levels well above 100 decibels (dB) during crucial moments of the game, which is enough to cause immediate hearing damage.
• Stadium Announcements: Public address systems, announcements, and stadium music can also contribute to high noise levels.
• Tailgating and Social Events: Pre-game and post-game gatherings can involve loud music, shouting, and other sources of noise exposure.

It’s also important to be aware that noise poses a threat even if you don’t watch the game in person. Loud sports bars and other viewing venues regularly exceed safe noise levels, putting fans at risk as they watch.

Protecting Your Hearing

The good news is that there are steps you can take to enjoy the game without sacrificing your hearing.  Here are some strategies to help you protect your ears during football season:

• Use Ear Protection: Invest in high-quality earplugs or earmuffs designed to reduce noise levels while preserving sound clarity. These are discreet and comfortable options that can significantly reduce the risk of NIHL.
• Limit Exposure Time: Take breaks from the noise by stepping away from the loudest areas during the game. Use this time to rest your ears and enjoy some quieter moments.
• Maintain Distance: When possible, sit farther away from the most enthusiastic fans or speakers to reduce your exposure to extremely loud noises.
• Educate Others: Share the importance of hearing protection with fellow fans, friends, and family. Encourage them to take steps to protect their hearing as well.

• Choose Venues Wisely: Opt for sports bars and venues that prioritize the comfort of their patrons by controlling noise levels.
• Set Volume Limits: When watching at home, ensure that the volume on your TV or sound system is at a safe level.
• Use ReBound: After the game, care for your ears with ReBound’s cold therapy. It was designed to provide soothing relief from loud noise AFTER exposure.

Remember, noise-induced hearing loss is preventable, and taking proactive steps to protect your hearing health during football season can make all the difference in the long run. Enjoy the game, but prioritize your well-being by making hearing protection a part of your fan experience. Your ears will thank you for it, allowing you to cheer on your favorite team for many seasons to come.