Diwali is about light, sweets and family, but the days around it bring a sharp rise in ear, nose and throat complaints. Firecrackers produce sudden loud sound and a thick cloud of smoke, and both can affect your body more than most people expect. fig 1. Diwali Ear Safety Guide How crackers affect your ears A single loud blast can be enough to damage the delicate hair cells inside the inner ear. Sounds above about 85 decibels can harm hearing with repeated exposure, and many crackers are far louder than that at close range. After a loud blast you may notice ringing in the ears (tinnitus), a blocked feeling, or muffled hearing. If this does not settle within a day or two, get your ears checked. How cracker smoke affects nose and throat Cracker smoke carries fine particles and chemicals that irritate the lining of the nose and throat. This can cause sneezing, a running or blocked nose, dry cough, sore throat and a scratchy voice. People with a...
With more than 25 years of rich clinical experience in the field of EAR, NOSE, THROAT, HEAD & NECK ailments, it is supplemented by robust academic credentials too.