Archive for the ‘Hearing Health’ category

Constant Ringing in Your Ears?

February 1st, 2012

By: Bettie Borton, Au.D., FAAA
Doctor of Audiology
Doctors Hearing Clinic
7025 Halcyon Park, Suite A
Montgomery, AL 36117
(334) 396-1635
“Like” Doctors Hearing Clinic | Facebook
www.doctorshearingclinic.com

If it seems like your ears ring constantly, it’s probably not crickets, your imagination or the economy . . . and you’re not alone. You may have tinnitus, an inner ear ailment that affects between 25 million to 50 million Americans — with about 12 million people experiencing such severe symptoms it affects their daily lives. The good news is treatment, including hearing aids, can offer relief to some from the persistent ringing, buzzing or humming associated with tinnitus, according to the Better Hearing Institute.

Tinnitus can be intermittent or constant. Causes range from ear infections and exposure to extremely loud noises, to underlying health problems like allergies or heart and blood pressure problems. Often, sufferers are unable to pinpoint the cause of their tinnitus. “Tinnitus can have a direct impact on a person’s emotional well being,” says Dr. Sergei Kochkin, BHI’s executive director. “Not only can their hearing be affected but also their ability to sleep or concentrate.”

Tinnitus Treatment, Ringing in the Ears CausesKochkin and Dr. Richard Tyler, professor and editor of The Consumer Handbook on Tinnitus (Auricle Ink, 2008), published a survey of 230 hearing health professionals in the United States and Canada. Their survey found that six out of 10 patients reported some tinnitus relief when using hearing aids and two out of 10 reported major relief. The symptoms of tinnitus “influence basic life functions such as socialization and relaxation,” the duo wrote. “In severe cases it can interfere with the individual’s ability to perform adequately on the job, or contribute to psychological disorders such as depression, suicide ideation, posttraumatic stress disorder, anxiety and anger.”

Although tinnitus is actually common and can cause major life disruptions, the number of sufferers who seek treatment for tinnitus is relatively small. One reason may be that they mistakenly believe their condition is untreatable. Unfortunately, many doctors are also unaware of the latest treatment options, and as a result patients may think they simply have to learn to live with the noise.

“No one should ever ignore persistent tinnitus,” Kochkin says. “Not only is every individual entitled to a chance to regain his or her quality of life, but in rare cases tinnitus also can be a symptom of a more serious health issue that could demand medical intervention. What’s more, nearly everyone with tinnitus has hearing loss as well.”

In a recent large-scale survey of the American hearing impaired population, 39 percent (more than 9 million adult Americans) indicated they had not sought help for their hearing loss specifically because they also had tinnitus. “Research shows that untreated hearing loss has its own negative social, psychological, cognitive and health effects on the individual suffering from it,” Kochkin adds. “So those with both untreated tinnitus and untreated hearing loss suffers an even more diminished quality of life than individuals with just tinnitus or just hearing loss alone.”

While hearing aids are not a cure for tinnitus, they may be able to help tinnitus patients by:

1. Improving communication and reducing stress, which makes it easier to cope with the condition.

2. Amplifying background sounds, which can make tinnitus seem less prominent.

A new type of hearing aid, called the open fit hearing aid, may be particularly useful in alleviating tinnitus. The open fit hearing aid can reduce the effects of the tinnitus ringing sensation while still allowing sounds from the outside to pass into the ear. If you think you have tinnitus have your hearing evaluated by an audiologist and to explore the use of hearing aids to alleviate tinnitus. The American Academy of Otolaryngology (AAO-HNS) and the American Tinnitus Association recommends these additional tips for minimizing the effects of tinnitus on your health:

1. Avoid exposure to loud sounds and noises.

2. Get your blood pressure checked. If it is high, get your doctor’s help to control it.

3. Decrease your intake of salt. Salt impairs blood circulation.

4. Avoid stimulants such as coffee, tea, cola, and tobacco.

5. Exercise daily to improve your circulation.

6. Get adequate rest and avoid fatigue.

7. Eliminate or reduce some stress in different parts of your life; stress often makes tinnitus worse.

8. Experiment by eliminating other possible sources of tinnitus aggravation, e.g. artificial sweeteners, sugar, alcohol, prescription or over-the-counter medications. (Do not stop taking medications without consulting with your health care professional about the possible ototoxic impact of your medications.)

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Posted in Alleviating Tinnitus, American Academy of Otolaryngology, American Tinnitus Association, Audiologist, Better Hearing Institute, Buzzing in ears, Causes of Tinnitus, Ear Infections, Ears Ring, Hearing, Hearing Aids, Hearing Health, Hearing Impaired, Hearing Loss, Hissing in ears, Humming in Ears, inner ear, Open Fit Hearing Aids, Persistent Ringing Ears, Ringing in the Ears, Symptoms of Tinnitus, tinnitus, Tinnitus Relief, Treatment for Tinnitus, Uncategorized, Untreated Hearing Loss

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Hearing is Big Business!

January 25th, 2012

By: Bettie Borton, Au.D., FAAA
Doctor of Audiology
Doctors Hearing Clinic
7025 Halcyon Park, Suite A
Montgomery, AL 36117
(334) 396-1635
“Like” Doctors Hearing Clinic | Facebook
www.doctorshearingclinic.com

Are you Assisting Employees with Hearing Loss? If not, listen up.

In a 2009 survey of 46,000 U.S. households, the Better Hearing Institute (BHI) determined that over the past generation hearing loss grew at an alarming 160 percent of the U.S. population growth— largely attributable to the aging of the American population. Yet the study found that 60 percent of people with hearing loss are below retirement age, indicating that 16.3 million people with hearing loss were in the U.S. workforce in 2010. In other words, untreated hearing loss has serious consequences for both employers and employees. Untreated hearing loss is costing society and those with the loss millions of dollars annually in lost revenue, productivity, and manpower.

Good hearing is good business.  Given the incidence and prevalence of hearing loss, most businesses will confront this challenge in the context of management’s responsibility and oversight of human resources. So, what can companies do to plan for and address the impact of employee hearing loss?  There are a number of simple steps employers can take to educate employees about hearing loss and to facilitate the use of hearing aids, where needed, that are simple to implement and very cost effective.

Previous research at BHI has shown that 50 percent of people with untreated hearing loss have never had their hearing checked by an audiologist and lack sufficient information to know whether they need to take action to correct it. Company owners and human resource professionals can help employees understand if they need treatment by:

 

  • Educating employees regarding the impact of untreated hearing loss on quality of life.
  • Encouraging employees to have their hearing screened on an annual basis, and providing opportunities for them to do so.

Employers can create a corporate climate where hearing loss is recognized so those with hidden hearing loss feel more comfortable. Here are some suggestions:

  • Avoid noisy restaurants as meeting locations.
  • Summarize meeting minutes in writing to be sure that those with hearing issues are clear on the outcome of the meeting.
  • Provide easy accommodations, such as moving an employee’s desk away from noisy hallways, machines, or air conditioning and heating vents, or installing a phone that amplifies high frequencies.
  • Build work environments that facilitate better hearing by choosing cubicles with noise-absorbent materials and equipping meeting rooms with an inductive loop that creates a wireless zone for hearing aids with telecoils, headsets or microphones.

In many cases, hearing aids can help protect employees from being at a competitive disadvantage with peers. Organizations can encourage the use of hearing devices, when needed, by participating with a private practice in Audiology to contract for the provision of services, group discounts, hearing devices, and more! Audiologists can design and implement screening programs (on and off site), as well as effective follow up scenarios to assist employees with managing hearing loss if it is identified.

Companies can also encourage employees to purchase hearing aids using pretax medical flexible spending account funds. In Montgomery, Doctors Hearing Clinic offers just such an option through their BHP program , and the good news is that it is FREE to employers, as well as employees and their families. This Better Hearing Program (BHP) offers free screenings, group discounts on hearing devices, in-service educational presentations, and a host of other hearing related employment benefits.

If you’re currently employed, encourage your employer to seek offerings for the provision of hearing healthcare services, and remember, these services can often be contracted with local audiology practices. If you’re an employer in the Tri County region and don’t currently offer a hearing healthcare package, the program at Doctors Hearing Clinic is an example of what is available to your company. This FREE array of benefits for your staff and their families, offers great value in hearing healthcare at no cost to you or your employees!

So start the 2012  business year out right. By encouraging employees to treat hidden hearing loss rather than hide it, an employer creates a win-win situation by ensuring that the loss of hearing does not interfere with job performance, productivity, safety, or the employee’s career or quality of life on or off the job.

References:

Sergei Kochkin, Ph.D., executive director of the Better Hearing Institute, a not-for-profit that educates the public about hearing loss, prevention and treatment.

Better Hearing Institute (BHI)

The Society for Human Resource Management

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Posted in Audiologist, Better Hearing Institute, Bettie Borton, Doctors Hearing Clinic, Employee Hearing Loss, Good Hearing, Hearing Checked, Hearing Evaluation, Hearing Health, Hearing Healthcare, Hearing Issues, Hearing Loss, Hearing Screening, Hearing Test, Hearing Tested, Treatable Hearing Loss, Uncategorized, Untreated Hearing Loss

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Hearing Loss And Hearing Aid Myths Debunked – Fiction vs. Fact

January 18th, 2012

By Crystal L. Chalmers, Au.D.
Doctor of Audiology
North State Audiological Services
15 Jan Court
Chico, CA 95928
(888) 844-7024
Follow North State Audiological Services | Facebook | Twitter | Youtube
www.nsaudiology.com

A recently completed study by Johns Hopkins University – published on November 14, 2011 in the Archives of Internal Medicine – now confirms that 1 in 5 Americans have hearing loss in at least one ear.  This is well over 50 million people and far exceeds previous hearing care industry estimates of approximately 25 million.

The Johns Hopkins study is unique in that the data used statistically corresponded with the entire US population by including both men and women of all races, aged 12 and older, living in cities throughout the country.

Using the World Health Organization’s definition of hearing loss – not being able to hear sounds of 25 decibels or less in the speech frequencies – the Johns Hopkins researchers found that over 30 million Americans have hearing loss in both ears and that over 20% of the population – in excess of 50 million people – have hearing loss in at least one ear.

Despite there being so many of us with hearing difficulties, too many people are still unaware of how or where to obtain professional help as the misconceptions about hearing loss and hearing aids are commonplace in our society.   The fact that you are reading this article is an excellent first step towards empowering yourself (or a family member) and taking control of your hearing health.

Audiologist & Ear Doctor, Dr. Crystal Chalmers, Chico, CaliforniaCommon Hearing Loss and Hearing Aid Myths

Myth: Buying hearing aids online, by mail, or at a big box store saves time, money, and gets the same results as professionally fit devices.

Fact: The proper diagnosis and selection of hearing technology as a solution for hearing difficulties is not the same thing as purchasing common consumer goods.  Rather, it should be a process built upon a relationship of respect and trust between the patient and a highly trained, competent, and ethical professional whose services and products provide long-term value.

Myth: Anyone licensed to sell hearing aids is qualified to test a person’s hearing.

Fact: By law in the state of California, only audiologists are licensed to perform diagnostic hearing evaluations.  The “free” tests that hearing aid dispensers frequently advertise are not comprehensive exams and are merely designed to determine if a person could be helped by a hearing aid.

Myth: Hearing loss affects only “elderly” people and is merely a sign of aging.

Fact: Hearing loss can affect people of all ages.  As mentioned in the Johns Hopkins study, 20% of the US population aged 12 years and older have hearing difficulties severe enough to impact communication.

Myth: Hearing aids don’t really do anything but amplify sound.  Besides they’re unsightly and uncomfortable.

Fact: While the hearing aids from 20 years ago left a lot to be desired from both technology and cosmetic standpoints, today’s hearing devices are exceptional technological performers and are so small as to be very discreet.  However, the most important consideration for you, the consumer, is not what the product is, but rather how it is fit to your hearing lifestyle, and to what extent you are provided with expert follow-up in the fitting of that device.   That is what makes my patients so successful in being able to enjoy better hearing.

Would you like to learn more about solutions to hearing difficulties and  hearing aid technology?  Here are two great places to start:

#1.) My Internet website at www.nsaudiology.com. This educational website offers a world of information, including highly informative videos, a free guide to better hearing, online specials, current “News & Events”, and the “Ask Dr. Chalmers” section where I have posted previously published original articles such as the one you are reading now.

#2.) Attend my upcoming Free Educational Luncheon Seminar which will be held Wednesday, January 25, 2012, starting at 11:30 AM at the Chico Women’s Club.  I’ll be providing an in-depth discussion covering everything from how your hearing works, to what are the different types of hearing care professionals, to insights about technology solutions for hearing difficulties.  A delicious catered lunch will be served.  There is no cost or obligation to attend, but due to limited seating, reservations are required.  Simply call my office today at 1 (888) 893-1352 …. Because hearing is wonderful gift.

About the writer:  Crystal Chalmers, Au.D., is an AudigyCertified™ Doctor of Audiology, the owner of North State Audiological Services in Chico, and a member of Audigy Group, the nation’s largest member-owned association of independent hearing care professionals.

Since 2006, Audigy Group has interviewed over 5,000 of the 18,000 audiologists in the United States, yet has selected only 230 to be members in this elite association. AudigyCertified™ is a trade-mark of Audigy Group, LLC.

To learn more about Dr. Chalmers, her practice, and Audigy Group visit online at www.nsaudiology.com.

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Posted in Audiologist, Buy Hearing Aids, California, Chico, Diagnostic Evaluations, Doctor of Audiology, Hearing Aid, Hearing Aid Dispensers, Hearing Aid Technology, Hearing Aids, Hearing Care, Hearing Difficulty, Hearing Health, Hearing Lifestyles, Hearing Loss, Hearing Technology, North State Audiological Serivces

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The Hearing Aid Tax Credit – Not Moving at the Speed of Sound

June 16th, 2011

By: Bettie Borton, Au.D., FAAA
Doctor of Audiology
Doctors Hearing Clinic
7025 Halcyon Park, Suite A
Montgomery, AL 36117
(334) 396-1635
www.doctorshearingclinic.com

As a member of the American Academy of Audiology Board of Directors, the “big picture” with regard to hearing healthcare is one of my primary focus areas. With all the talk about the new healthcare plan currently being debated in the Senate, you may be wondering what is the status of the Hearing Aid Tax Credit Act? Unfortunately, it is not part of the current healthcare reform legislation and it has been moving through the House and the Senate at a snail’s pace.

Bettie Borton, Au.D. Doctor of Audiology AudiologistThere are some differences between the House of Representatives and the Senate bills: the House one (H.R. 1646) calls for provision of a tax credit towards the purchase of each hearing aid of up to $500 per device, available once every five years. It would be available to people age 55 and over, or those purchasing a hearing aid for a dependent. This bill excludes coverage for people earning over $200,000 a year. The Senate bill (S. 1019) would provide the same $500 credit but cover all age groups.

Although similar bills are introduced on the Hill every year, they never get very far. However, since August 2009, the bill has reached the threshold of 100 bipartisan co-sponsors (66 Democrats and 34 Republicans), so there is every reason to be optimistic that it will finally be passed. This hope is shared by leading healthcare and advocacy organizations, including Better Hearing Institute (BHI), the Hearing Loss Association of America, the American Academy of Audiology, the American Speech-Language Hearing Association and the AARP, among others.

Why should you care about the passage of the Hearing Tax Credit legislation? Well, for one thing, hearing loss is one of the most common conditions affecting older Americans. As Better Hearing Institute, points out that:

  • 3 in 10 people over age 60 have hearing loss
  • 1 in 6 baby boomers (ages 41-59) have a hearing problem
  • 1 in 14 Generation Xers (ages 29-40) already have hearing loss
  • At least 1.4 million children (18 or younger) have hearing problems; it is estimated that 3 in 1,000 infants are born with severe to profound hearing loss.  In fact, hearing loss is the most common of birth defects, occurring more frequently than, for example, Down Syndrome.

While sensorineural hearing loss can’t be “cured”, studies have conclusively shown that hearing technology, such as hearing aids, not only helps users hear better, but, at the same time, it vastly improves the overall quality of their lives by allowing them to participate in conversations and social activities, as well as reducing isolation, getting better compliance with medical concerns, and a host of other advantages.

By the same token, those who do not wear hearing aids are at an increased risk of loneliness, isolation and depression. For children, untreated hearing loss means that their language and social skills development will be delayed and / or diminished. Any way you look at it, hearing aids are necessary for quality of life, safety, and skill development for many Americans, young and old.

Unfortunately, for far too many people with hearing loss they remain out of reach.

Millions of people need hearing devices, but don’t get them, and a large part of the problem is the cost. There are currently an estimated 36 million Americans with some degree of hearing loss. Yet, according to BHI, only nine million actually wear hearing aids. Of those who do not, many cite the high cost of assistive technology for not getting treatment; in fact, two out of three adults with hearing loss say financial constraints are the main reason they do not use hearing aids.

The cost of hearing aids – ranging from $1,000 to 4,000 per hearing aid – is not covered by either Medicare or most private insurers, making it too expensive for many people. But a survey carried out by BHI demonstrates that 10 million of the 27 million Americans with untreated hearing loss would likely buy hearing aids if tax credits were available.

That’s why it is crucial that the Hearing Aid Tax Credit Act does not languish on the Hill much longer.

Make your voice heard! Congressmen do listen to their constituents, so it is critical that you write your representatives urging them to support this legislation.

For optimum effect, Doctors Hearing Clinic and BHI recommend that you personalize your letter, sharing the story of why the hearing aid tax credit is important to you and your family. For example, you may mention that your elderly parents are on fixed income and can’t afford the full price of hearing aids. Or, you are struggling financially and can’t pay for your child’s devices.

Alternatively, BHI offers online forms so you can type your message to your Congressperson directly, and Doctors Hearing Clinic provides copies of written directives to take further action.

Hearing Aid Tax CreditAdditionally, three states – New York, North Dakota and Montana – are currently debating hearing aid tax laws similar to the federal ones. Consider asking our state representatives to entertain such legislation. The more feedback and comments your representative receives, the better a chance of him or her sitting up and listening. For more information about this very important legislation, visit www.hearingaidtaxcredit.org, or call the professionals at Doctors Hearing Clinic. If we work together on this issue, we will all benefit.

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Posted in AARP, Alabama, American Academy of Audiology, Assisitve Listening Technology, Audiologist, Better Hearing, Better Hearing Institute, Doctor of Audiology, Healthcare Plan, Hearing Aid Costs, Hearing Aid Tax Credit Act, Hearing Aids, Hearing Health, Hearing Healthcare, Hearing Loss, Hearing Loss Association of America, Hearing Problem, Hearing Technology, Uncategorized, Untreated Hearing Loss

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A Surprising Proactive Method to Delay or Prevent the Onset of Dementia

June 1st, 2011

By: Linda S. Remensnyder, Au.D.
Doctor of Audiology
Hearing Associates, P.C. . . . Eliminating the Sound of Silence
755 S. Milwaukee Avenue, Suite 189
Libertyville, IL 60048
www.hearingdoc.com

New research (Archives of Neurology) from Johns Hopkins University National Institute on Aging finds that seniors with hearing loss are significantly more likely to develop dementia over time than those who retain their hearing.  The greater the degree of hearing loss, the stronger is the relationship.  In fact, the link is so strong that the authors hypothesize new preventative treatment options to delay or prevent dementia may include the use of hearing aids.

Linda Remensnyder, Au.D. - Doctor of Audiology AudiologistThere is a well accepted link between hearing loss and typical diseases often seen in aging.  Diabetes, cardiovascular disease, and kidney disease are not just prevalent in our culture but are also rampant in my hearing impaired patient population.

These diseases cause specific changes in the ear that result in diminished hearing.  In the case of dementia, the link is reversed.  Changes in the ear (hearing loss) in seniors alters the brain secondary to diminished language stimulation. It is hypothesized that this lack of consistent language stimulation is what contributes to dementia.

Much of hearing is incidental hearing.  Hearing colleagues greeting one another after a weekend, hearing the grocery store clerk speak to another customer, hearing a mother’s dialogue with her child in a restaurant booth, and hearing the speech of others at an adjacent bridge table are all examples of incidental hearing.  Incidental hearing provides a rich, diverse, and omnipresent means of language stimulation that is not deliberately sought out by the listener.

So many of my hearing impaired patients say they “hear what they want to hear,” and note that they only hear others that face them, speak up, or get close before talking.  Not only does the listener’s range of audibility get smaller as hearing diminishes (physical isolation from sound restricts incidental hearing) but hearing loss causes social isolation as well.  Those with hearing loss may cease frequenting activities where their hearing is challenged.  They might avoid certain restaurants, stop going to large gatherings, discontinue attending services at their Place of Worship, and cease speaking to certain individuals whose voices they cannot understand. As outlined in the ASHA Reader, “the strain of decoding sounds over the years may overwhelm the brains of people with hearing loss, leaving them more vulnerable to dementia.”

May is Better Hearing Month.  Get your hearing tested now and get treatment now.  The ramifications of untreated hearing loss are very serious, indeed.

Linda S. Remensnyder, Au.D., Doctor of Audiology, is President of Hearing Associates, P.C., with offices in Libertyville (847.680.7580) and Gurnee (847.662.9300).

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Posted in Au.D., Audiologist, Clinical Audiologist, Decreased Hearing, Dementia, Digital Hearing Aids, Doctor of Audiology, Gurnee, Hearing Aids, Hearing Associates, Hearing Difficulty, Hearing Health, Hearing Loss, Hearing Tested, Illinois, Incidental Hearing, Libertyville, Linda Remensnyder, Normal Hearing, Uncategorized

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Hearing Loss Contributes to Lost Income & Impacts Employers

May 25th, 2011
By: Jennifer Bentley, Au.D.
Doctor of Audiology
The Hearing Assessment Center
9101 Franklin Square Drive
Baltimore, MD 21237
(410) 583-7021
Follow The Hearing Assessment Center | Facebook | Twitter | Youtube
www.hearingassessment.com
 

When the topic of hearing loss comes up in a conversation, most people don’t think twice about it—dismissing it as a problem faced by “old” people, and more of an inconvenience than a real health issue.

The fact is, hearing loss is a serious condition affecting nearly 30 million Americans. Studies report that one out of six baby boomers (ages 42-60) and one out of 14 in the Gen X population (age 30-41) are affected by hearing loss. Given these age breakdowns, it is fair to assume that most of these individuals are still active in the workforce.

Jennifer Bentley, Au.D. - Doctor of Audiology Baltimore, MarylandFor this large portion of the work force, hearing loss is more than “inconvenient.” If left untreated, even a mild hearing loss can jeopardize safety and cost them (and their employers) dearly.

In terms of safety, consider this: a person with untreated hearing loss, regardless of age, is given instructions to take medicine at specific times and in certain dosages. If those instructions are not crystal clear, the results can be life-threatening. Add in other outside factors such as the noise from the hospital emergency room, or a crying toddler, and the difficulty of hearing proper instructions increases.

The “danger” in these scenarios doesn’t even factor in the ability to hear sirens, smoke alarms, baby cries, car horns, and other alerting signals. The more significant the hearing loss, the greater the risk is to oneself or others, and that’s more than an inconvenience.

In addition to safety, job security and income for an employee with untreated hearing loss may be at risk. Consider a scenario where a boss gives a series of instructions and deadlines to a staff person. Even a mild hearing loss could impair the employee’s ability to hear the details correctly. This puts the project at risk and may even jeopardize that person’s job.

A survey conducted by the Better Hearing Institute indicates, “Working Americans who ignore their hearing problems are collectively losing at least $100 billion a year in earnings.” The survey showed that, “Even people with mild hearing loss, who may miss a consonant here or a word there, may lose income if they can’t completely grasp the latest news at the water cooler or a phone message from the boss.”

The report goes on to estimate that the average worker with untreated hearing loss loses from $1,000 per year (those with mild hearing loss) to $12,000 a year with profound hearing loss.

Given the fact that most hearing loss is noise-induced (contrary to years of thinking it was related to age), it is not likely that the number of people suffering from hearing loss will decline in our noisy society. As a matter of fact, there is an epidemic of hearing loss in young people.

Reports indicate that children as young as 7 are being diagnosed in unprecedented numbers with noise-induced hearing loss. The impact of this epidemic, of course, is yet to even be a reality for employers.

Being Proactive Can Make A Difference

It is easy to be proactive in addressing hearing loss in the workplace. The best place for individuals and businesses alike to begin is with a hearing-loss awareness program. The goal of an awareness program is to commit to the prevention and the proactive treatment of hearing loss for those who are affected.

In terms of prevention, hearing conservation programs are recommended for noisy businesses. When around high levels of occupational noise, the employee’s hearing sensitivity should be monitored on an annual basis. In low-noise environments, such as an office building, employers should include hearing-loss awareness education as part of their worksite wellness programs.

In terms of proactive treatment, encourage employees to get their hearing tested and treated if a loss does exist. Offering to help pay or share the cost of hearing aids (or other assistive listening devices) could speak volumes about an employer’s commitment to staff and hearing health. Such minor “investments” on the part of the business can be huge in terms of employee loyalty and enhancing morale.

Additionally, businesses can take steps to make it easier for employees with hearing loss to hear more efficiently.

For instance, offer phone amplifiers, install loop systems in meeting rooms, and encourage greater sensitivity and awareness among all staff members—offering tips or training to help them communicate more effectively with their co-workers who have hearing loss.

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Posted in Baltimore, Hearing Aids, Hearing Assessment, Hearing Care, Hearing Difficulty, Hearing Evaluation, Hearing Health, Hearing Impaired, Hearing Loss, Hearing protection, Hearing Technology, Hearing Tested, High-Frequency, Impaired Hearing, Kids Hearing Loss, Loud Noise, Low-Frequency, Maryland, Noise Exposure, Noise Hazards, Noise levels, Noise-induced, Noisy, Reduce Noise, Signs of Hearing Loss, The Hearing Assessment Center, Treatable Hearing Loss, Uncategorized

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Sound Advice: Noise-Induced Hearing Loss Prevention

April 22nd, 2011

By: Peter J. Marincovich, Ph.D., CCC-A
Audiology Associates
1111 Sonoma Ave., Suite 308
Santa Rosa, CA 95405
(707) 827-1630
www.audiologyassociates-sr.com

Have you noticed that daily life in our society gets louder every year? The change is subtle and is a problem that most of us take for granted and even ignore. According to many leading Audiology professionals, casually ignoring the sounds around us can lead to serious hearing problems, including noise-induced hearing loss (NIHL).

One of those professionals is David Coffin, Audiology clinic coordinator at Indiana’s Ball State University. “We are exposed to all sorts of sounds that can lead to permanent hearing loss,” Coffin says. “The average person will wear a helmet when riding a bike, or a seat belt in a vehicle, but doesn’t even think about ear protection when going to watch a rock band, a fireworks display, or even an auto race.”

According to the Better Hearing Institute, 30 million Americans are exposed to dangerous noise levels each day and 10 million Americans have already suffered irreversible hearing damage from noise.

The problem of noise induced hearing loss has been around for decades. It occurs at home, in the yard, at the office, at the factory, on the farm and in the military. But today, because of technology, virtually everyone is effected and at younger and younger ages. It is not uncommon for audiologists to see 20-year-olds with the hearing of 60-year-olds.

However, there is good news as well: NIHL is easily identifiable and completely preventable. Today, audiologists can assist with the prevention, diagnosis and rehabilitation of hearing loss.

Hazardous Noises

Normal conversations occur at approximately 60 decibels. Raising your voice over a noise in order to be heard by someone an arm’s length away is a good indication that the noise could be within risky range. Knowing which noises can cause damage, such as jet engines, lawn mowers, motorcycles, chainsaws, powerboats, and personal media players is the best arsenal against NIHL.

“Risky noise,” says Coffin, “can come in the form of the pop of fireworks, the snarls of traffic, the buzz of lawn mowers, or the percussive tones of marching bands.”

According to Coffin, such sounds are typically within the range of 90 to 140 decibels, but any noise above 80 can cause long-term hearing damage. The maximum exposure time per day for the exposed ear is 8 hours at 90 decibels. The risk of noise-induced hearing loss depends on both the intensity and duration of the exposure. As intensity increases, the length of time for which the exposure is “safe” decreases. For example, exposure to 85 decibels (often produced by gas-engine lawn mowers) for 8 hours can be as equally damaging as exposure to 110 decibels (often produced by a chain saw) for only a few minutes. For every 5 decibel increase in volume, the maximum exposure time is reduced by 50 percent. Therefore, according to Sight and Sound Associates, the maximum daily exposure time at 95 decibels is four hours; at 120 decibels, seven minutes, 30 seconds.

Warning signs that exposure to hazardous noise has occurred or is occurring include: the inability to hear someone a few feet away, ear pain after leaving a noisy area, ringing or buzzing (tinnitus) in the ears immediately after exposure to noise, or hearing people talking but being unable to understand them.

Loud explosions that peak for a few milliseconds at levels greater than 130 to140 decibels may cause hearing loss. More often, however, hearing loss is caused by repeated exposure to noise above 85 decibels over long periods. Some sources of common noises and associated decibels are: lawn mower, 90 decibels; stereo headphones, 105-110 decibels; automobile horn, 110 dB; baby’s cry, 115 decibels; rock concert, 115-120 decibels; and firearms, 125-140 decibels.

The commercial popularity of portable media players with earphones, such as the iPod and similar devices, and their long-term use by consumers, increase the risk of NIHL in those users. According to the National Center for Health Statistics, almost 15% of Americans below the age of 19 suffer from some measure of hearing loss. And according to Sight and Hearing Association, the incidents of teenage hearing loss has increased 400 percent over a ten-year period, as found in a recent study of eighth graders.

Symptoms of NIHL

NIHL usually develops gradually. People may lose a significant amount of hearing before becoming aware of its presence. The first sign of NIHL is not being able to hear high-pitched sounds, such as the singing of birds, or not understanding speech when in a crowd or an area with a lot of background noise. If damage continues, hearing declines further, and lower pitched sounds become hard to understand.

Signs of hearing loss from unsafe sound exposure include the inability to comprehend somebody talking from two feet away, hearing muffled speech, experiencing pain or ringing in the ears following exposure, and needing others to speak louder in conversation.

People often fail to notice the impacts of unsafe exposure to noise because it causes few symptoms. Hearing loss is rarely painful. Symptoms may go away minutes, hours or days after the exposure to noise ends. Many people naturally assume that if the symptoms abate, their ears have recovered to normal. However, even in the absence of more symptoms, some cells in the inner ear may have been destroyed by the noise. Hearing returns to normal only if enough healthy cells are left in the inner ear. But if the noise exposure is repeated and more cells are destroyed a lasting hearing loss will develop.

Sensorineural Hearing Loss

When the hearing system is exposed to noise at a risky or hazardous level, mechanical and metabolic changes can occur. Scientific research, based on studies of industrial workers, as well as lab studies of humans and animals, have investigated the effects of noise on hearing.

In these studies, excessive noise stimulated cells in the inner ear, resulting in chemical processes that can exceed the cells’ tolerance. This damages cell function and structure and results in sensorineural hearing loss (as opposed to a conductive hearing loss, where the outer or middle ear have been affected) and tinnitus (ringing of the ears).

The sensory cells in the cochlea may recover from their damage (as you have possibly experienced after a loud concert or work with a loud machine). Usually, recovery from temporary threshold shift (or TTS) occurs quickly, largely disappearing in 16 to 48 hours after exposure to loud noise. However, if the hearing sensitivity does not recover within a few days, an irreversible and permanent threshold shift has taken place.

Prevention

Hearing loss is not reversible, but NIHL is preventable. Individuals vary in their susceptibility to hearing loss and hearing typically declines with age, but a healthy person who is not exposed to hazardous noises can enjoy normal hearing into his senior years.

Noise is probably the most common occupational hazard facing workers today. Employers at noise-hazardous workplaces, and physicians, are in a position to advise those at risk for developing NIHL that there are three simple keys to prevention:

1)      Understand what noises put them at risk – those above 85 decibels, commonly portable media players, lawn mowers, motorcycles, chain saws, jet engines, etc. A general rule of measurement is that if one has to shout to be heard an arm’s length away, assume the noise is above a hazardous threshold.

2)      If possible, decrease noise at the source – for example, keep the volume low on portable media players, purchase motorized equipment with an effective muffler, etc.

3)      Buffer loud noises with earplugs or other forms of hearing protection. These are known as hearing protective devices (HPDs) and are required by law to be labeled with a Noise Reduction Rating (NRR) based on performance obtained under ideal laboratory conditions. HPDs are powerful tools for preventing NIHL if worn correctly and throughout the duration of the hazardous noise. Also sound absorbing materials, such as floor mats, can help reduce noise.

Early identification is important in order to recognize the presence of NIHL and take steps to prevent further hearing loss. Those regularly exposed to hazardous noise in the workplace or elsewhere should have an annual hearing test. If hearing loss is developing, it might indicate under-protection and could suggest preventative measures, such as better HPDs or turning down the volume on the iPod

Dr. Peter J. Marincovich, Ph.D., CCC-A

Clinical Audiologist

Dr. Peter Marincovich earned his graduate degree in communicative disorders from Louisiana State University, and his Ph.D., in Audiology from the University of Memphis. A Santa Rosa native, Dr. Marincovich has practiced in his hometown since 1984. Dr. Marincovich works with patients of all ages and levels of hearing loss. He is also a frequent presenter at seminars and academic conferences. He holds specialized credentials in teaching the handicapped, and conducts courses at Santa Rosa Junior College. Dr. Marincovich is owner of Audiology Associates with offices in Marin, Santa Rosa and Mendocino.

References

ANSI (1996). American National Standard: Determination of occupational noise exposure and estimation of noise-induced hearing impairment. New York: American National Standards Institute, Inc., ANSI S3.44-1996.

National Institutes of Health (1990). Noise and Hearing Loss. NIH Consensus Development Conference Consensus Statement 1990, Jan 22-24; 8 (1).

National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (1998). Revised Criteria for a recommended standard – Occupational noise exposure, U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, Public Health Service, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health, DHHS (NIOSH) Publication 98-126.

National Institute on Deafness and Other Communication Disorders (1999). Noise-Induced Hearing Loss. NIH Pub. No. 97-4233.

Occupational Safety and Health Administration (1983). Occupational Noise Exposure Standard. 29 CFR Chapter XVII, Part 1910.95.

Yattaw, M. (1999, July 21). Audiology doctorate among nation’s first. Ball State University News. Retrieved October 19, 2010, from http://www.bsu.edu/news/article/0,1370,-1019-1169,00.html

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Baby Boomers: The Next Generation to have Hearing Loss

April 15th, 2011

By Crystal L. Chalmers, Au.D.
Doctor of Audiology
North State Audiological Services
15 Jan Court
Chico, CA 95928
(888) 844-7024
Follow North State Audiological Services | Facebook | Twitter | Youtube
www.nsaudiology.com

For many of you between the ages of 46 to 64, your time is coming.

Time, that is, to experience what so many of your parents and grandparents came to learn of fist hand: hearing difficulties caused by exposure to excess loud noise.

The “Baby Boomer” generation – those Americans born between 1946 and 1960 – accounts for some 76 million of us in the Untied States today and at least 15 percent of Boomers already have hearing loss.

This is a far cry from the previous 2 generations, who typically did not show symptoms of hearing loss until they were in their 70’s and 80’s.  Indeed, when I was an audiology student at Minot State University earning my Master’s of Science degree I was taught that only men in their 70’s and 80’s got hearing loss.

What has changed?  Our world is now much, much louder.

An Unprecedented Century

Prior to the Industrial Revolution of the 1890’s, relatively few Americans were exposed to loud noise.  At the turn of the 20th Century, much of our population inhabited rural areas with males working in non-mechanized agriculture and females involved in homemaking chores, which they performed by hand.  There were no vacuum cleaners or food processors.

However, with unprecedented technology, mechanization, and involvement in two World Wars, the US population got its first dose of exposure to excessive levels of loud noise.

Still, the field of audiology – born of the technological research in sonar for the Navy in WWII  — was in its infancy in the 1950’s and was relying on the only set of data on hearing loss available till then, which was testing conducted at the 1939 World’s  Fair in San Francisco.

But a funny thing happened.  That data was proven wrong when, in the mid 1980’s women in their 60’s started showing up in audiologist’s offices across the country with identical hearing loss of their male counterparts.

Audiologist & Ear Doctor, Dr. Crystal Chalmers, Chico, CaliforniaWho were these women and why, for the first time in recorded history, were they suddenly experiencing hearing loss?  She was, in fact, the “Rosie the Riveters” of WWII: those young American women who, with all the men serving in the armed forces, went to work in the factories and shipyards providing the “Arsenal of Democracy” with much needed war effort labor.  These women built the Liberty ships, Sherman tanks, and B-17 bombers used to defeat the Axis Powers …. And got themselves a hefty dose of impaired hearing in the process!

Post War Boom

After victory in WWII Americans got busy in the greatest economic surge in human history … and had babies.  Lots of babies.

And as those babies grew into young adults in the 60’s and 70’s a flourishing American economy provided them with all sorts of loud recreational activities.  From rock concerts to ski boats to hot rods to stereo systems, Americans got a steady diet of loud noise long before subsequent research showed the direct correlation between the noise and hearing loss.

Early Hearing Aids: Low-Tech = Bad Reputation

Parents of the Boomers had lousy timing as hearing aids back then were pretty awful.  These devices only made sounds louder for the wearer.  While a few people benefited from this simplistic approach to solving hearing difficulties, most did not and hearing aids got a deserved bad reputation.

So bad in fact that after graduating from school, I steered my career towards diagnostics, performing testing of the hearing system for the determination of medical problems such as the location and size of brain tumors and loss of balance problems.

The Digital Breakthrough

Everything about hearing aids changed in the late 1990’s with the breakthrough of digital hearing technology.  In essence, digital hearing aids are miniature computers that dramatically increase the amount of sound processes possible (and available to the wearer) as opposed to the old linear and analog products.  And digital products keep getting better, with several major advancements taking place during the last decade with the last two years seeing some terrific gains.

Today’s digital products are so advanced we don’t even call them hearing “aids” anymore.  Instead we prefer to call these amazing products “hearing technology” as they are smaller than ever with superb sound quality.  Top-of-the-line models have features that Boomers need such as “directionality” for enhancing sound coming to from the front, while tuning down sound coming from behind such as someone might experience at a noisy restaurant or party.  Also, Bluetooth capability enhances the lives of 21st century on-the-go active Americans.

Educate Yourself: Get the Facts about Hearing Care

The myths and misperceptions associated with hearing loss and hearing aids of 30 years ago should be put to rest.  The science of Audiology has come a long way as has hearing technology.  No one needs to suffer all the serious communication issues associated with hearing difficulties … if they would only seek help.

Get the facts!  As the month of May is National Better Hearing Month, I will be providing a Free Luncheon Seminar on Hearing Care on Wednesday May 4th at the Chico Women’s Club.  This informative seminar will answer all of your questions about hearing difficulties and technological solutions.   The seminar if free but advance reservations are required, so call my office at 1 (888) 893-1352 … because hearing is a wonderful gift!

About the writer: Crystal Chalmers, Au.D., is an AudigyCertified™ Doctor of Audiology, the owner of North State Audiological Services in Chico, and a member of Audigy Group, the nation’s largest member-owned association of independent hearing care professionals.

Since 2006, Audigy Group has interviewed over 5,000 of the 18,000 audiologists in the United States, yet has selected only 190 to be members in this elite association. AudigyCertified™ is a trade-mark of Audigy Group, LLC.

To learn more about Dr. Chalmers, her practice, and Audigy Group visit North State Audiological Services.

SIDEBAR:  More baby boomers showing signs of hearing loss

  • More than 55 million Americans have some degree of hearing loss—approximately one in 5 individuals — and this number is expected to increase further by 2030.  Much of that looming surge is a baby-boomer phenomenon.
  • Among Americans ages 46 to 64, about 15 percent already have hearing problems, according to a survey by the Better Hearing Institute.
  • Two out of three people with hearing loss are below retirement age.
  • Sixty percent of people with hearing loss are male.
  • Only 12 percent of physicians today ask patients if they have any hearing problems.
  • Only one in five people who could benefit from hearing aids currently wear them.

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Hearing Loss Now Third Most Common Health Problem in the United States….

August 6th, 2010

By: Janis Wolfe Gasch, Au.D.
Doctor of Audiology
Founding Director
Arizona Hearing Specialists
7574 N. La Cholla Blvd.
Tucson, AZ 85741
(520) 742-2845
www.arizonahearing.com

Hearing Loss Now Third Most Common Health Problem in the United States and Americans believe their social life and safety are suffering…..

Tucson, AZ – With more than 50 million Americans suffering from its effects, hearing loss is now the third most common health problem in the country today, behind only arthritis and heart disease.  Additionally, Americans believe their social life and/or safety is the most negatively impacted by substantial hearing loss, results found from a nationwide survey of 1,000 adults (conducted by HearUSA – Kelton Research).

“More than half of all hearing impaired persons are younger than 65,” says Janis Wolfe Gasch, Au.D., Doctor of Audiology and Founding Director of Arizona Hearing Specialists in Tucson and Green Valley.  “Sadly, too many people either do not recognize that they are having hearing difficulties, or do not want to admit their difficulties due to preconceived notions or social stereotypes.”

Findings have shown that even mild hearing loss can lead to avoidance of social situations, reduced alertness and reduced job performance and earning power. Because not seeking treatment can have long-term negative effects on communication and cognition, Dr. Gasch wants to remind people that help is available. 

Arizona Hearing Specialists wants to encourage people in the community to seek answers to their questions about hearing difficulties and to educate themselves about available solutions.  For over 25 years, the locally owned hearing care practice has been helping people improve the quality of their lives through better hearing.  Additionally, they are certified by Audigy Group as being one of the leading hearing care providers in the nation. 

During August, two educational seminars, with breakfast included, are free to the public on two separate dates.  However, due to limited seating, the Seminar requires advance reservations. Interested persons should call 520.742.2845 to reserve their space.  Spouses or significant others are encouraged to also attend. People are also welcome to visit www.arizonahearing.com for other events and information throughout the year.

“My goal in sponsoring these events is to provide people in our community with the knowledge they need to make informed decisions regarding their hearing health,” says Dr. Gasch.

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Posted in Arizona Hearing Specialists, Audigy Group, Doctor of Audiology, Hearing Care, Hearing Difficulty, Hearing Health, Hearing Loss, Uncategorized

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