SPECIAL SECTION: HEALTHY LIVING
the ages of 55 and 64 have some degree of hearing loss, increasing
to one in two people by age 65 and older. Chronic exposure to loud
noises and aging are the two main causes of hearing loss, resulting in
muffled speech from others, difficulty understanding words, frequently
asking others to repeat themselves, loud volume on the television or
radio, and avoidance of social settings.
Hearing loss occurs when there is damage to the inner ear, infection
in the ear, or ruptured eardrum. Damage to the inner ear can happen
with age, or constant exposure to loud noises over an extended period
of time. These cause wear on the nerve cells in the cochlea that send
sound to the brain. When they are damaged, signals aren’t transmitted
as effectively, causing loss of hearing. Heredity, aging, occupational and
recreational noises, some medications, and some illnesses may cause
either partial or full hearing loss, but there are ways to treat hearing
loss. Treatment can include surgical procedures, hearing aids, or
cochlear implants.
Preventive measures can also be taken to protect against noiseinduced hearing loss and to avoid age-related hearing loss. Be sure
to wear protective earmuffs if you work in a loud environment or if
you are hunting, going to concerts or doing other loud activities for
an extended period of time. It is also important to have your hearing
tested on a regular basis. Early detection is key to preventing complete
hearing loss.
Mouth Health
Your mouth can tell a lot about your overall health. Investing in your
oral health is also investing in your general health. There are several
conditions that are linked to oral health including endocarditis and
cardiovascular disease. When bacteria from your mouth, or other parts
of your body, spread through your bloodstream they can attach to your
heart, causing an infection in the inner lining, also called endocarditis.
Research suggests that poor oral health is linked to clogged arteries and
stroke as well.
Keeping tabs on your oral health is critical for warding off bad breath
and poor health. It is important to brush at least twice a day, floss, eat a
healthy diet, replace your toothbrush every three to four months, and
avoid tobacco use to maintain a healthy mouth. Visiting your dentist
for regular cleanings can also ensure that oral hygiene is at its best.
Heart Health
We are all aware that it is important to eat healthy and stay fit
for heart health. A diet rich in plant foods and low in processed
food and animal products lends itself to a happy heart. Paired with
cardiovascular exercise, you’ve got it made for a healthy body. But
have you ever thought of staying positive as a way to keep your heart
healthy? A research study being done at the University of Illinois
shows that people with optimistic attitudes have higher odds of having
ideal cardiovascular health when compared to pessimistic people. The
study analyzed “the mental health, levels of optimism, and physical
health of 5,100 adults ranging from 45 to 84 years of age. Heart health
scores—based on American Heart Association-approved metrics,
including blood pressure and body mass index—increased right
alongside optimism levels.” So when you’re feeling down, remember
that staying positive affects more than just your day, so keep your head
up and your heart happy.
Digestion
Digestive issues affect all of us at one time or another. From upset
stomach, gas, and heartburn, to constipation and diarrhea, digestive
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