Holiday Survival Guide: Avoiding Hearing Loss at Loud Parties

 The holidays can be loud. Between packed parties, concerts, and busy restaurants, your ears go through a lot this time of year. But here’s the part most people don’t realize: One loud event can cause lasting hearing damage if you’re not careful. 

The good news? Raj Bhayani, MD, at the New York Institute of Otolaryngology and Aesthetic Surgery, can help you prioritize smart habits that protect your hearing and help you enjoy every event on your holiday calendar. 

Here’s your go-to guide for getting through the holiday noise without paying for it later. 

Why holiday parties can hurt your hearing 

Most people don’t think of hearing loss as something that happens suddenly, but it can. Exposure to loud noise, even for a short amount of time, can damage the tiny hair cells in your inner ear. And once those cells are damaged, they don’t grow back.

Holiday events often push sound levels past the safe zone with music blasting over 85 decibels, crowded rooms with echoing conversations, live bands, and long hours in noisy environments. You may notice symptoms like: 

• Ringing in your ears (tinnitus)
• A feeling of fullness or pressure
• Temporary muffled hearing
• Sensitivity to everyday sounds

These are red flags that your ears need a break. 

Tip #1: Wear ear protection

Earplugs have come a long way since those bulky foam cylinders. Now you can get discreet, high-fidelity earplugs that lower the volume without distorting sound. You’ll still enjoy the music and conversation; you’ll just be safer while doing it. Earplugs help by: 

• Reducing noise to safe levels
• Preventing short-term and long-term damage
• Making the party actually more comfortable 

And trust us, no one will notice. It’s better to be safe than sorry. 

Tip #2: Take sound breaks throughout the night 

Your ears need downtime just like the rest of your body. Stepping away from the noise for a few minutes can give your ears the reset they need. Some great ways to take breaks include: 

• Stepping outside for fresh air
• Hanging out in a quieter room
• Taking a quick bathroom or water break 
• Going to your car for a moment of silence 

Even five minutes here and there helps prevent overload. 

Tip #3: Be smart about where you stand or sit 

Where you position yourself in a loud environment makes a huge difference. Sound levels aren’t equal everywhere. The best places to avoid are right next to speakers, near live bands or DJs, and crowded corners where noise bounces off the walls. 

To be safe, find quieter spaces, like the back of the room and areas with more airglow and space. If you’re at a restaurant or bar, choose a table away from speakers or noisy kitchen areas. 

Tip #4: Listen to your body and don’t push through pain 

If your ears start ringing, hurting, or feeling muffled, that’s your body waving a giant caution flag. Don’t ignore it. If you notice symptoms: 

• Step out and give your ears a break 
• Avoid other loud environments for the next 24 hours 
• Keep volume low when listening to music afterward 
• Stay hydrated (it helps reduce inflammation) 

If symptoms last more than a day, it may be time to see Dr. Bhayani. 

Enjoy the holidays without putting your ears at risk

You don't have to choose between protecting your hearing and having fun. With small adjustments, you can enjoy every party, concert, and gathering without risking long-term hearing loss.

If you’re ready to learn more and protect your hearing, contact us to schedule your appointment with Dr. Bhayani in either Brooklyn or Queens today.