The vuvuzela is a popular South African noise-maker that has gained much attention in the recent months due to the 2010 World Cup soccer tournament. This plastic horn has also been the subject of much debate related to the hearing damage that it may cause, especially in a stadium where thousands of fans are blowing on their horns in unison. Love it or hate, the vuvuzela is here to stay, in South Africa at least, and it is important to learn how to protect your ears should you be in close proximity to the instrument.
Can the vuvuzela sound damage hearing?
Yes, if blown in close proximity to the ear, the vuvuzela may cause temporary noise-induced hearing loss. This, however, should return in a few days to weeks depending on the sound volume and period of exposure. Repeat or prolonged exposure will result in permanent hearing problems although the onset in these instances are usually more gradual – initially there is some loss but the hearing returns partially. The sound volume from a single vuvuzela may clock in at about 125 decibels although the cacophany within a stadium may reach up to 140 decibels (dB).
A sore throat is a feeling of discomfort, dryness or scratchiness/ itchiness of the throat that often makes swallowing difficult. Other symptoms that may be present include pain upon swallowing, a hoarse voice and swollen neck lymph nodes.It may be caused by a number of factors with infections being the most common cause. Upon examination, inflammation of the throat (pharyngitis) and surrounding structures looks like there is redness with swelling, making the area more bright and shiny than the normal appearance.
If a sore throat is present with the inability to swallow or difficulty breathing, immediate medical attention is necessary.
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Glue ear, or chronic secretory otitis media, is a common problem in children. However it can affect hearing and lead to a host of complications if left untreated. Despite regular medical treatment, glue ear has a tendency to recur, especially in children, and ear grommets may be needed to reduce the chances of complications.
The growing popularity of nasal irrigation for preventing and treating conditions like sinusitis has recently hit South African shores with commercial neti pots (not netty pot) now available. A neti pot is a jug like vesicle, with a long spout, that delivers water into the nose and cavities, in order to wash or drain the sinuses. It has been used for thousands of years as an Ayurvedic practice for maintaining a a healthy nasal lining, clearing both the sinuses and nose cavity. Until recently, it was believed to be another gimmick alternative health practice but recent research has shown that it may be beneficial or at the very least, not harmful.
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Allergic rhinitis, commonly referred to as hay fever, is a common condition known for a range of symptoms like a runny nose (usually a clear watery discharge), episodes of sneezing (seasonal or at certain times of the day like a morning sneeze) and nasal congestion (blocked nose). Other symptoms associated with hay fever may include a skin rash, itchy red eyes and sometimes sore throat.
Sinusitis is an inflammation or irritation of the mucous membrane lining the sinus cavities. Sinusitis may be considered as acute if it lasts for less than 4 weeks, sub-acute if present for 4 to 12 weeks or chronic if it persists for over 12 weeks. Sinusitis should not be confused with hay fever, or allergic rhinitis, which is a condition causing a runny nose, bouts of sneezing and other allergy related symptoms.
