Ear infections are a very common problem. Identifying the signs early can help prevent complications and ensure swift treatment. Infections can become painful and irritating, but recognizing the symptoms and seeking medical attention can alleviate concerns. What is an Ear Infection? An ear infection occurs when the middle ear becomes inflamed, often due to bacteria or viruses. This condition tends …
Finding the Perfect Hearing Aid
Hearing aids are small electronic devices that help individuals hear better. They come in various shapes and sizes, and technological enhancements have made them more effective over the years. Hearing aids have a microphone, amplifier, and speaker. Sound enters through the microphone, gets amplified, and then plays through the speaker into the ear. The advanced models have additional features, such …
What to Expect at a Hearing Aid Adjustment Appointment
Hearing aids must be fine-tuned to match an individual’s hearing loss profile. At an adjustment appointment, a hearing health professional will check how the hearing aids perform. These visits ensure that the devices are calibrated to the specific needs of their wearer, improving sound clarity and overall comfort. Hearing aids, when newly acquired, may not perfectly match a person’s sound …
The Difference Between Over-the-Counter & Custom Hearing Aids
Hearing loss affects many people, making simple conversations difficult and impacting daily life. There are different types of hearing aids available to help with this issue. Two common choices are over-the-counter (OTC) hearing aids and custom hearing aids. Understanding the differences between these two options is critical when deciding between them. What Are Over-the-Counter Hearing Aids? OTC hearing aids are …
How Certain Medicines Can Harm Your Hearing
The term “ototoxicity” refers to the damage caused to the ear (oto) by toxic substances. These substances include certain medications, which may harm parts of the ear responsible for hearing and balance. The results can range from temporary hearing loss to permanent damage. It is important to identify medications that carry these risks to minimize the adverse effects. Common Ototoxic …
Understanding Genetics and Hearing Loss
Hearing loss affects millions of people worldwide, and its causes can be complex and varied. Genetics plays a significant role in hearing, determining both the likelihood of hearing loss and the type and severity. Understanding the genetic factors can help in early diagnosis and treatment, improving the quality of life for those affected. Genes carry the instructions for building and …
Renting Versus Buying Hearing Aids
Hearing aids play a vital role in enhancing the quality of life for those with hearing loss. Deciding whether to rent or buy hearing aids though is a significant choice that impacts both one’s lifestyle and finances. Renting hearing aids can offer flexibility and affordability. This option provides the chance to try different models without committing to a large purchase. …
How to Protect Your Ears at Concerts
Attending concerts can be an exhilarating experience. The thrill of live music, the energy of the crowd, and the sheer volume of sound contribute to unforgettable moments. However, without proper precautions, the intense noise can cause lasting damage to the ears. Concerts often reach sound levels above 100 decibels, which can harm one’s hearing after just a few minutes of …
The Most Common Misconceptions About Hearing Loss
Hearing loss affects millions of people worldwide. Despite its prevalence, many misconceptions exist about hearing loss that can lead to misunderstanding and stigma. Hearing Loss Only Affects the Elderly One of the biggest misconceptions about hearing loss is that only the elderly are affected. While it is true that age-related hearing loss is common, hearing loss can affect individuals of …
What is Noise-Induced Hearing Loss?
Noise-induced hearing loss (NIHL) is a common yet preventable condition affecting many individuals worldwide. The main cause is exposure to loud sounds, which can damage the structures of the inner ear. By understanding how this form of hearing loss happens, we can take steps to protect our hearing in the future. What Is Noise-Induced Hearing Loss? Noise-induced hearing loss occurs …