Good hearing is something we don't truly appreciate until we begin to lose it.

Here are a few simple ways you can protect your hearing:

• Never deliberately expose yourself to very loud noise
• If you can't avoid loud noise, wear earplugs or ear muffs
• When working with machinery, wear appropriate hearing protection at all times
• If you can't hear people near you speaking at a normal level when playing your iPod or MP3 player turn down the volume
• Wear ear plugs to rock concerts, motor races or other loud events
• If you are a musician who is frequently exposed to loud music, pick up some special ear plugs designed to protect your hearing
• Be aware of the risks if you have exposure to solvents, toxins or are taking certain drugs
• Give your ears regular rests from loud noise
• Get your ears tested regularly

What if I think I have hearing loss?

Don't ignore it. Hearing loss can happen gradually - or suddenly. We don't always know why hearing loss occurs, but we do know that you have a better chance of a good outcome if you act quickly.

Learn more about signs of hearing loss.