What to Know About Sound Machines and Noise-Induced Hearing Loss
Noise-induced hearing loss (NIHL) is a form of permanent hearing loss that occurs from prolonged exposure to loud sounds. This damage happens when high-decibel sounds harm the delicate hair cells in the inner ear, which are responsible for sending sound signals to the brain. Recently, studies have shown that certain sound machines, often used to…
The Connection Between Loud Noise Exposure and Hypertension
While many people are aware that loud noise can damage their hearing, fewer realize that it can also significantly impact overall health, including blood pressure. A study from 2023 highlighted a strong connection between prolonged exposure to loud noise and the development of hypertension, a condition that can lead to health complications if not managed…
How to Celebrate Audiology Awareness Month
Each October, Audiology Awareness Month occurs to promote awareness about hearing health and the importance of hearing protection. Audiology Awareness Month was established in March 2008 and prioritizes sharing resources and educating the community. According to the World Health Organization, more than 1.5 billion people, or 20% of the world’s population live with hearing loss…
Tips To Address the “Plugged Up” Sensation in Hearing Aids
In 2019, approximately 7.1% of adults aged 45 and older used a hearing aid. Hearing aids are tiny devices that amplify external sounds to improve communication understanding. If you’ve been wearing hearing aids for a while or recently started using them, you may have experienced a “plugged up” feeling similar to how your ears feel…
How Can You Help Your Child Embrace Their Hearing Aids?
Change can be a little scary when you’re a kid. From small changes like new friends and classrooms to significant changes like new schools and homes, a child’s life is constantly shifting, and it is natural for them to feel a little unsteady. Hearing aids are one big change you and your child may not…
What Is Reactive Tinnitus
Tinnitus is ringing or buzzing in one or both ears. Reactive tinnitus is when average noises in your environment affect the intensity of your tinnitus symptoms. Nearly 10% of the U.S. population has experienced tinnitus lasting at least five minutes in the past year. If you’ve experienced an increase in the intensity of your tinnitus symptoms after…
When Should You Get A Hearing Test
Approximately 15% of American adults report some trouble hearing. You may sometimes wonder how much hearing loss is too much and when you should seek out a hearing test. Nearly 28.8 million adults could benefit from the use of hearing aids, and hearing aids are a helpful tool in improving the overall quality of life…
Three Ways Hearing Loss Can Increase Your Anxiety
Studies have shown that untreated hearing loss is linked to higher rates of anxiety. Let’s look at a few of the reasons this happens, as well as what you can do to improve your mental health. Worries About Your Hearing Health There can be a lot of questions and worries when you start to experience…
Common Misconceptions About Hearing Loss
Treating hearing loss is an integral part of staying healthy and connected to your family and your community. Unfortunately, many people with hearing loss delay or completely avoid getting treatment. While many factors play a part in this, one reason people don’t get the treatment they need is because of common misconceptions they believe about…
How Should I Prepare My Child for Ear Tube Surgery?
If your child has chronic, recurrent ear infections, an ear, nose and throat (ENT) physician may recommend ear tubes, also known as tympanostomy tubes (TT). According to one 2022 article published in the National Library of Medicine, “Almost 7% of all children will have a least one set of TT by 3 years of age,…