Archive for the ‘Hearing protection’ category

Otoprotectants for Noise Induced Hearing Loss

June 29th, 2011

Hearing Professional Center
By: Allison McKenzie , Au.D.
Doctor of Audiology
5462 Glen Lakes Drive
Dallas, TX 75231
(214) 987-4114
Follow Hearing Professional Center | Facebook | Twitter | Youtube
www.hearing-center.com

Noise induced hearing loss (NIHL) is the second most common cause of sensorineural hearing loss (SNHL) in industrialized societies. Excessive noise exposure is the only preventable cause of SNHL (Kopke, 2007). The hair cells of the inner ear are the specific structures damaged by excessive noise exposure and, in mammals, are unable to regenerate spontaneously. This physical damage can cause permanent and irreversible hearing loss as well as degrade a person’s quality of life. Knowing how the physical structure is affected by noise can aid researchers in their search for therapeutic agents that act as otoprotectants against NIHL (Ciorba et al, 2008). Personal hearing protection devices along with environmental engineering are the most prevalent protection methods of hearing conservation programs. Even with the required participation in hearing conservation programs, by workers who are exposed to noise at or above the action level, NIHL is still quite common. The current methods of protection are limited in their ability to save every listener from a NIHL. Researchers are actively searching for a pharmacologic approach that, when combined with environmental engineering and personal hearing protection devices, will more completely protect people from NIHL (Kopke, 2007).

Antioxidants

Vitamin E

Oxidative stress has been proven to contribute to the degradation of hair cells in the cochlea. Drugs with antioxidant properties, such a vitamin E, have been tested on both animals and humans. The success with vitamin E as an otoprotectant in animals is far greater than the results seen is human subjects. The different effects of antioxidants between human and animal subjects may be due to differences in pharmacokinetic and pharmacodynamic principles. More research is needed to determine when and in what intervals antioxidant treatments are needed to be the most useful in preventing NIHL in humans (Fetoni et al, 2008).

N-acetyl-l-cysteine (NAC)

The glutathione pathway is a very important antioxidant pathway in the cochlea. NAC acts as a glutathione substrate and aids the body in glutathione synthesis. Research shows the effectiveness NAC has on NIHL when given intraperitoneally and via oral gavage. ABR recordings on chinchillas show the differences between dosing methods and different types of noise exposure. Many studies have shown the otoprotectant effectiveness of NAC in animal subjects, but this particular study chose to administer high-kurtosis noise in order to simulate a typical industrial environment. The goal was to show whether NAC would be considered an effective treatment method in human subjects with a NIHL (Bielefeld et al, 2007).

Clifford and Rogers (2009) looked at the effect of antioxidants as otoprotectants for impact noise trauma. They stated that people who are exposed to impact noise are at greater risk for NIHL. They chose to study the otoprotectant effect of NAC on chinchillas. The antioxidant effected the way the cochlea reacted to changes in oxygen and nitrogen which helped protect the inner ear from severe hair cell damage. There were limitations to this study due to the difficulty the researchers faced when trying to measure the physical changes during impulse noise stimulation. Clifford and Rogers (2009) cite the work of Kopke’s unpublished pilot study of 566 Marine recruits which reported a 25% reduction in the number of Marines suffering a NIHL after a two-week period of M16 rifle exposure. These Marines were given NAC as the antioxidant otoprotective agent. There is more research on the usefulness of antioxidants as otoprotectants currently being conducted with military personnel.

A study conducted in 2006 looked at NAC given thirty minutes prior to exposure to loud music. This is the only study that administered the NAC by effervescent tablet form. The results indicated that the results from the NAC group were no different than the results from the placebo group. The author pointed out other research that suggests dosing schedule is very important to the success of NAC in preventing permanent threshold shifts (Kramer et al, 2006).

Hearing Professional Center StaffHPC Staff: (From Left) Dr. Allison McKenzie, Jared Lacy & Dr. Deborah Price

C-Jun N-terminal Kinase (JNK) Inhibitors

JNKs are stress activated protein kinases that have been shown to be responsible in the apoptosis or death of oxidative stress-damaged cells. Knowing the signaling chain of JNKs can effectively help researchers provide otoprotectants that are efficient in preventing cochlear damage. JNK inhibitors are cell permeable peptides that target specific protein groups and block the JNK from carrying out its natural course in the cell. One research study showed that the  peptide conjugate D-JNKI-1 can be injected locally to the scala tympani of explanted cochleas to provide protection from acoustic trauma as well as aminoglycosides. JNK inhibitors as otoprotectants have shown the ability to keep a temporary threshold shift from becoming a permanent hearing loss (Zine and Van de Water, 2004).

A more recent study looked at the effect of JNK inhibitors on patients whose hearing was affected by firecrackers on New Year’s Eve. The 11 subjects were selected within 24 hours of the firecracker display and had at least a 30 dBHL loss at 4 and 6 KHz. The subjects were given topical anesthesia and then given a single intratympanic injection of either .4 or 2.0 g/ml of the JNK inhibitor AM-111. The results showed no difference between the dosage groups. The study shows improvement in the thresholds of all 11 subjects, but there was not a control group to compare these results to. There is not enough evidence to say that AM-111 should be used clinically to treat acute acoustic trauma (Suckfuell et al, 2007).

Coenzyme Q10

Coenzyme Q10, which is used to increase cellular metabolism, was used to determine otoprotective effectiveness in 30 guinea pigs. The coenzyme Q10 was given intraperitoneally 2 hours before the guinea pigs were exposed to 130 dBSPL of noise centered at 4 KHz for 3 hours. ABR was used to measure pre and post results. The guinea pigs showed no differences in ABR recordings prior to noise exposure, but 7 days after the exposure the treatment group showed less of a shift than the control group. There was a marked improvement in antioxidative activity noticed 2 days post coenzyme Q10 injection (Hirose et al, 2008).

Hepatocyte Growth Factor (HGF)

HGF is a protein responsible for cell growth and different morphogenic factors. Gelatin hydrogels that had been dipped in either HGF or saline were placed on the round window of 18 guinea pigs 1 hour after a 3 hour exposure to 120 dBSPL noise. The results were measured using ABR throughout the testing process. The ABR results showed that the guinea pigs who were given the gelatin hydrogels dipped in HGF had better ABR thresholds than the saline group. The results differed in the basal portion of the cochlea only. The apical region remained unchanged for both groups (Inaoka et al, 2009).

Tacrolimus (TCR) and Melatonin (MLT) vs. Dexamethasone (DXM)

A recent study compared TCR, MLT and DXM under the same conditions to determine which if any was the most effective otoprotectant. TCR is a calcineuron inhibitor that was administered to a group of rats the day before exposure to traumatic noise and for 14 days following the noise exposure. The TCR group of rats showed an improvement in ABR thresholds within one week post noise exposure. The rats given MLT, a pineal gland hormone and antioxidant, were reported to show a marked improvement in ABR thresholds by week three post noise exposure. The group given DXM, an anti-inflammatory and immunosuppressant, showed no difference in ABR threshold recordings from the control group (Bas et al, 2009).

Implications

Most of the research on otoprotectants that has been published is based on an animal model. There are a few human subject based articles, but the methods of otoprotectant use are varied. The study that looked at the effect of NAC on people exposed to loud music used an effervescent tablet. I question whether the outcome would have been different if the dosing method had been different. My concern is the feasibility of intratympanic injections every time a person is exposed to excessive amounts of noise. More research is needed to determine which of the treatments presented in this paper are useful clinically. Every research article mentioned the need for more research to fully understand how the system works. I would like to see more human subject research to better understand how an otoprotectant might be most effective.

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Posted in Cochlea, Dallas, Hair Cell Damage, Hearing Conservation Programs, Hearing Loss, Hearing Professional Center, Hearing protection, inner ear, Noise Exposure, Noise Hazards, Noise levels, Noise-induced, Otoprotectants, Sensorineural Hearing Loss, Texas, 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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Hunting Ear Protection

January 14th, 2011

Hearing Professional Center
By: Jofie Lamprecht – Patient of Dr. Deborah Price
5462 Glen Lakes Drive
Dallas, TX 75231
(214) 987-4114
www.hearing-center.com

I decided early in my Professional Hunting career to look after my hearing. That decision has saved my hide several times, from leopard charges, a spotted hyena sticking his nose inquisitively into a leopard blind, buffalo that were less than pleased, and charging black rhinos – to name a few. Like the animals we prey upon, when hunting you are using all your senses in a heightened state.  Sight, hearing, and smell aid a P.H. in sensing the wind direction and listening for your prey when you are close. There is nothing like a final approach, stalking quietly, and being able to smell and and hear wild creatures in their element without them knowing you are there. Hearing the grass part as they move, as well as hearing them breathe.  (Pictures below – the orange set is the Non-Electronic Hearing Protection and the Beige is the Electronic Hearing Protection.)

Non-Electronic & Electronic Hearing Protection

I used to wear molded ear plugs, but have recently upgraded to “electronic ears”. Dr. Deborah Price, owner of Hearing Professional Center in Dallas, built me a pair of these electronic ears.  They have really saved my hearing, my hide and enhanced my hunting efficiency. I am able to hear everything within a 50 yard range while hunting, give and hear questions in the adrenaline filled moments before my hunters take a crucial shot, and have my hands free to assist the shooter or watch the targeted animal through my binoculars.

Earlier in my professional dangerous game hunting career, I would go without ear-plugs due to the danger of blocking one of your senses in potentially life threatening situations. My hearing  was numbed with the concussion of a big caliber rifle for several days after a successful hunt.  The thought that there is no way of repairing the damage done to my hearing was aching in the back of my skull.

I have worn my “electronic ears” for a total of 360 days of plains and dangerous game hunting over two seasons. I was surprised by the battery life, often lasting more than 14 days with one set of these tiny batteries… all through rain and shine, dust and dirty, blood, sweat and tears. Performance – cutting even the biggest bore rifles discharge down to nothing, and being able to hear the impact has impressed me time and again. They made it through it all.

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Posted in Dallas, Deborah Price, Earplugs, Electronic Ears, Hearing, Hearing Professional Center, Hearing protection, Protecting Ears, Uncategorized

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Noise, Hearing Loss and Your Health

October 8th, 2010

By Kevin M. Liebe, Au.D., CCC-A
Doctor of Audiology
Columbia Basin Hearing Center
1149 N. Edison Street, Suite D
Kennewick, WA 99336
(509) 736-4005
www.columbiabasinhearing.com

Exposure to hazardous noise still remains one of the most common causes of irreversible hearing loss today.  The National Institutes of Health currently estimates that approximately 10 million Americans have suffered irreversible hearing loss due to noise, with another 30 million being exposed to dangerous noise levels on a daily basis.

For most people, the symptoms of Noise-Induced Hearing Loss (NIHL) tend to be subtle in the earlier stages.  Hearing loss begins to occur first for high-pitch sounds.  As a result, the bass or “volume” of speech appears unchanged, but the clarity of speech decreases.  The ability to communicate in the presence of background noise becomes increasingly difficult and can cause anxiety, stress and fatigue for the individual trying to understand speech.  Over time, communication even in quiet environments can become difficult for the affected individual if a person is not directly facing them when they speak.

While it is possible to obtain immediate hearing loss after exposure to a loud sound, most often NIHL is the result of repeated exposure to loud sounds over an extended period of time.  Prolonged exposure to sounds reaching or exceeding 85 decibels (dB) can result in permanent hearing loss.  The louder the noise, the less time an individual can be exposed before permanent damage will occur.  Beyond hearing loss, exposure to loud noise can even cause physical changes to occur in other parts of your body:  increased blood pressure, disturbed digestion, increased breathing rate, fatigue, irritability and sleeping difficulty.  A ringing or buzzing in the ears, called tinnitus, is one of the most common side effects and may become permanent.  When combined with exposure to various chemical compounds, such as those frequently encountered by industrial workers (vehicle exhaust, paint, organic solvents, etc), the damaging effects of noise can be increased.

NIHL is almost always preventable.  You can help prevent NIHL by:

  • Limiting the length of your exposure
  • Always wearing your hearing protection in the presence of loud noise
  • Advocating for hearing conservation programs with your employer
  • Having your hearing tested and monitored by a licensed Audiologist

Foam plugs are no longer the only option to preserve your hearing when you’re exposed to loud noise.  Advancements in hearing protection technology now allow customized hearing protection for a variety of applications, including military personnel, musicians, sport shooters and industrial workers.  In addition, for those parents concerned about their child’s exposure to loud music through personal music (MP3) players, a new type of earphones were recently released that have the ability to regulate the volume to prevent dangerous levels of sound from being produced. Kidzsafe Earbuds® are compatible with all types of MP3 players and will help ensure the music your child enjoys will stay safely below 85 dB, giving parents peace of mind.

Facts/figures:

 

110 dB

Exposure of more than 1 minute risks permanent hearing loss.

100 dB

No more than 15 minutes of unprotected exposure recommended.

85 dB

Prolonged exposure to any noise at or above 85 decibels can cause gradual hearing loss.

****(Table adapted from National Institutes of Health, 2010)***

How Loud is too Loud?
Decibels (dB) Noise Source
150+ Firecracker
120 Ambulance siren
110 Chain saw, Rock concert
105 Personal stereo system at maximum level
100 Wood shop, Snowmobile
95 Motorcycle
90 Power mower
85 Heavy city traffic
60 Normal conversation
40 Refrigerator humming
30 Whispered voice
0 Threshold of normal hearing

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Posted in Columbia Basin Hearing & Balance Center, Hearing Loss, Hearing protection, Kennewick, Kevin Liebe, Noise Exposure, Noise levels, Noise-induced, Ringing in the Ears, tinnitus, Uncategorized

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Now Hear this…. Are You at Risk for a Hearing Loss?

June 18th, 2010

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

Did you know hearing loss…

  • Is the third most prevalent chronic health condition in America, behind high blood pressure and arthritis?
  • Affects 36 million Americans (about 17% of adults)?
  • Is more common in men than women?
  • Costs our economy billions of dollars in lost wages and hidden costs annually?

Is not being adequately identified by healthcare professionals? Only 38 percent of adults ages 70 years and older and only 29 percent of adults ages 20 to 69 have had their hearing tested within the last 5 years!

Do you or someone you love have a hearing loss? If so, you’re not alone. Almost 20% of adults in the United States will develop hearing loss during the course of their lives, and if undiagnosed and untreated, its affects can be devastating. Impaired hearing can have a profound impact on emotional, physical, economic, and social well-being.  People with hearing loss have documented decrease in quality of life, reporting symptoms of depression, dissatisfaction with life, reduced functional health, and social isolation. Statistically, they have lower income levels, and frequently complain of frustration in relationships and various communicative situations, as well as inability to enjoy social situations, and fatigue. Despite the fact that most people with hearing loss can be helped with today’s state of the art amplification, many never seek help, or resist the use hearing aids or other assistive listening technologies.

The causes of hearing loss are varied and resultant impact on auditory capability may range from mild to pronounced. Sometimes the cause or etiology, such as wax build up in the external ear canal or an ear infection, is readily apparent. In other instances, the cause of hearing loss may be more obscure. Decreased hearing is often called “the invisible handicap”. Because hearing impairment (especially loss related to aging) often presents very gradually, those with significant hearing impairment can be unaware of their loss. Family members, significant others, co-workers and friends are frequently the first to notice communication problems related to decreased hearing sensitivity.

Given that 36 million Americans are faced with this “invisible handicap” what kinds of risk factors increase the likelihood that someone will develop hearing loss? Why do some people develop hearing loss and while others do not? Some risk factors are obvious, but others are much more obscure.

Perhaps the most widely recognized risk factor is aging. Presbycusis, or the loss of hearing that gradually occurs as we grow older, is a familiar scenario for those of us with older family members. In fact, about 30-35 percent of adults between the ages of 65 and 75 years have a hearing loss, while an estimated 40-50 percent of people 75 and older have a hearing impairment.

Loss associated with presbycusis is usually greater for high-pitched sounds, resulting in the frequent comment “I can hear people talking, but can’t understand them clearly”. It is most commonly binaural (in both ears), affecting the ears equally. Because this type of loss in hearing sensitivity is so gradual, people who have presbycusis frequently lose their frame of reference for normal loudness of sounds, and often do not realize that their hearing acuity is diminishing.

The resultant relationship dynamic is frequently the subject of jokes – “My husband suffers from ‘selective’ hearing and he’s driving me crazy”! In reality, however, hearing impairment is no laughing matter and can take quite a toll on communication with significant others. Research indicates that for couples where one person has unaddressed hearing loss, the divorce rate is actually significantly higher.

Most people would agree that we now live in a very noisy world. Noise levels for rock concerts, radios, motorcycles, traffic, industrial and lawn equipment, and even our personal listening devices constantly bombard our auditory system. It is not surprising that noise exposure is another one of the most frequently cited risk factors for hearing loss, and now rivals aging as the number one cause of hearing loss in this country.  Noise from occupational, recreational and sporting activities all pose significant hazards to hearing in the United States today. Firearm use is one of the biggest culprits in our area of the country. A single shot from a shotgun, experienced at close range, can permanently damage hearing.  Repeated exposures to loud machinery in the work place or as part of yard maintenance or recreational experience may, over an extended period of time, present a serious risk to hearing. Even something as seemingly benign as blow dryers for styling hair put hearing at risk.

Consider the noise levels for such activities as NASCAR, jet ski and power boat usage, and lawn equipment. The cumulative effects of these noise hazards and many others pose a serious risk for hearing. Noise exposure risk is a time weighted function – in other words, the longer the exposure time, the greater the risk, and lower the loudness level required to cause damage. According to the National Institute on Deafness and Other Communication Disorders (NIDCD), 10 million Americans have already suffered irreversible hearing damage from noise, and 30 million more are exposed to dangerous noise levels each day. A one-time exposure to hazardous noise resultant from gunfire or a rock concert, no matter how brief the time, of 120 dB or more can leave hearing permanently impaired. Prolonged exposure to only 85 dB (which can be generated by a commonly used appliance such as a blow dryer or hand held power tool) can do the same. 

Children and young adults are bombarded with potentially damaging noise exposure, most of which is easy to overlook. Most people intuitively recognize that “boom boxes”  IPODS, and other personal listening devices, if played too loudly, constitute a risk to hearing. However, consider the noise levels inherent to playing in a school band or orchestra. Students engaged in this commonplace activity spend hours practice in noisy environments within the context of their academic activities, yet many of them are not wearing appropriate ear protection, nor are schools effectively addressing this problem. To complicate matters, for reasons that are not fully understood some people are more susceptible to noise exposure than others.  As an example, research indicates that those with blue eyes are more prone to noise exposure than those with darker eye color!

Aging and noise exposure are two rather obvious risk factors for hearing loss, but there are many other factors that are more insidious. Studies suggest that there is a strong genetic component inherent to hearing loss, both for childhood deafness as well as presbycusic loss. If your parent or grandparent had hearing loss, your risk factor for developing a similar impairment may increase. If you had a relative who was hearing impaired from birth, family members of child bearing age need to be mindful of this risk factor, and be particularly vigilant with regard to insuring that the newest members of the family are effectively screened at birth for hearing sensitivity.

Various diseases of the ear certainly pose risk to hearing sensitivity. Ear infection, otosclerosis (a bony growth in the middle ear cavity), Meniere’s Disease, acoustic neuroma (a tumor on the auditory nerve), and a host of other maladies are obvious risk factors for hearing loss. But did you know that hearing loss is about twice as common in adults with diabetes compared to those who do not have the disease, according to a new study funded by the National Institutes of Health (NIH)? Visual deficits have long been associated with diabetes, but hearing loss is an under-recognized complication. Because of the strong correlation between diabetes and hearing loss, The National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases (NIDDK), recently suggested that people with diabetes should consider having their hearing tested.

Use of common drugs such as antibiotics, aspirin, diuretics and chemotherapy can cause hearing loss. Typically, hearing loss from ototoxic drugs is high frequency, which often results in the hearing impairment less obvious to those it affects. All radiation and chemotherapy patients should insist on baseline hearing assessments before, during, and following their course of treatment to insure that auditory effects of ototoxic interventional strategies are carefully monitored and treated.

Race and gender also play a role in hearing loss risk factor determination. Researchers now know that compared to women, men are five and one half times more likely to have hearing loss. White and Mexican American men have a higher incidence of both high-frequency hearing loss and hearing loss in both ears than blacks, who were 70 percent less likely than white participants to present with hearing loss.

With the dramatic increase in airbag use, motor vehicle accidents (MVA’s) are common culprits for increased risk of hearing loss. In fact, 17% of those involved in MVA’s with airbag deployment will have permanent loss of hearing as a result. Other insidious risk factors for hearing loss include smoking and cardiovascular disease. The incidence of hearing loss is significantly more pronounced among smokers, as well as those with any type of cardiovascular disease.

Many healthcare professionals simply don’t make these associations, and as a result, do not refer patients for hearing evaluation as often as risk factors might dictate. So, the message is be aware, and be proactive in assessing your risk, or that of your loved one, for hearing loss. For a comprehensive audiometric evaluation, see a Board Certified Doctor of Audiology. If you’ve never had a baseline audiogram, it’s certainly in your best interest to do so. Only 38 percent of adults ages 70 years and older and only 29 percent of adults ages 20 to 69 have had their hearing tested within the last 5 years.   If you’re over 65, hearing evaluation each year by a Board Certified Audiologist should become part of your annual medical maintenance program.
(Sources: BHI, NIDCD, ABA)

Dr. Bettie Borton is a Board Certified Doctor of Audiology, and a nationally recognized expert in hearing healthcare. She has more than 30 years’ experience diagnosing and treating hearing impairment in children and adults. Dr. Borton has served as the President of the Alabama Academy of Audiology, National Chair of the American Board of Audiology, and currently serves on the National Board of Directors for the American Academy of Audiology.

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Posted in Acoustic Neuroma, Assisitve Listening Technology, AudigyCertified, Audiogram, Audiologist, Audiometric Evaluation, Auditory, Bettie Borton, Binaural, Binaural Hearing, Clinical Audiologist, Diabetes, Doctor of Audiology, Doctors Hearing Clinic, Ear Disease, Ear infection, Ear wax, Hearing Aids, Hearing Assessment, Hearing Damage, Hearing Difficulty, Hearing Evaluation, Hearing Impaired, Hearing Loss, Hearing protection, Hearing Test, Hearing Tested, Impaired Hearing, Meniere's Disease, Noise Exposure, Noise Hazards, Noise levels, Otosclerosis, Ototoxic Drugs, Presbycusis, Signs of Hearing Loss, Treatable Hearing Loss, Uncategorized

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A Guide to Healthy Senior Living: Take steps to protect and keep your hearing!

April 22nd, 2010

A Guide to Healthy Senior Living: Take steps to protect and keep your hearing!

By: Amit Gosalia, Au.D.
Board Certified Doctor of Audiology
Audiology Clinic, Inc
505 NE 87th Ave #150
Vancouver, WA 98664
(360) 892-9367
www.audiologyclinic.com

Over 32 million Americans have hearing loss, and a half of them are under the age of 65. In the U.S., it is predicted that the number of Americans with hearing loss will exceed 70 million by the year 2030. Most of these people will suffer from noise induced hearing loss (NIHL). In 1999, the Veterans Administration (VA) spend $300 million to compensate over 50,000 veterans for noise-induced hearing loss, That number is expected to rise significantly.

Everyday, sounds over 85 decibels can cause some type of hearing loss. Types of these sounds include a gun shot, bombs exploding, jets taking off, power tools, and a musical concert (not just rock and roll), to name a few. However, even common, everyday items, such as a hair dryer, Walkman/IPod, lawn mower, and blender, can cause some type of NIHL. If you have stood next to someone listening to music through headphones, and you can hear the music, then that volume has reached a damaging range. If you cannot hold a conversation while a choir is singing, then that volume has reached a damaging range. Some side effects to NIHL include tinnitus (ringing in the ears), and diminished speech understanding (especially women and children’s voices). With NIHL, common sounds in our language, such as k, s, f, t, and p, can be mixed up (i.e. hearing the word cat, when someone said cap).

Unlike most other types of hearing loss, NIHL can be prevented. Because NIHL is gradual and cumulative, repeated noise traumas can impact hearing loss in a greater fashion. A noise trauma from 50 years ago can cause problems now. Many of my patients who served in the military during World War II, the Vietnam War, and even the Gulf War, are now seeing the effects of NIHL. Usually, the sensitive hair cells in our inner ears (cochlea) can recover from noise trauma, within 48-72 hours. The hearing loss can become permanent if the noise overwhelms the self-repairing function of the hair cells, and they do not recover.

So what can we do? First, avoid all types of loud noises. If it is necessary, then use some form of noise attenuators, such as ear plugs or earmuffs. Custom earplugs can be made for you in our office. Secondly, turn down the noise. Turn down the IPods, and Walkmans. The volume should not increase past the half-way mark. Finally, there is initial research to indicate that certain antioxidants and certain drugs (otoprotective agents), if taken prior to exposure, can reduce the damage done by noise. Newer studies, are working on a “morning-after noise pill” to prevent inner ear hair cell damage. However, none of these drugs will counter a healthy regimen of reducing noise.

Because NIHL creeps up gradually, it is very difficult to notice it. It is the family members, friends and co-workers who notice your hearing loss first. If you feel that you or a family member may be feeling the symptoms of NIHL, then call our office at (360) 892-9367, and I will conduct a full audiological evaluation and determine a course of action. Most NIHL patients choose a treatment option that may include the use of hearing aids. The American Medical Association concluded that 95 percent of people with hearing loss would benefit from hearing aids. If this is the only option available, I, or any audiologist, will help in the decision- making process, and stay committed to help you hear better. Turn down the noise and protect your hearing.

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Posted in AudigyCertified, Audiologist, Doctor of Audiology, Hearing Aids, Hearing Device, Hearing Difficulty, Hearing Loss, Hearing protection, Hearing Technology, Noise-induced, Treatable Hearing Loss, Uncategorized

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Why YOUR Lifestyle – Regardless of Age – Needs to be Considered When Selecting Hearing Aids

March 19th, 2010

Why YOUR Lifestyle - Regardless of Age – Needs to be Considered When Selecting Hearing Technology

By Crystal L. Chalmers, Au.D.
Doctor of Audiology      
North State Audiological Services
15 Jan Court
Chico, CA 95928
www.nsaudiology.com

Ah, high-technology consumer-oriented electronic devices.  They’re everywhere we look in our daily lives.  From the L.E.D. read-out timer-controlled automatic coffee maker to the hands-free cellular phone to digitally enhanced music and television systems, high-tech products are all the rage, enhancing our lives in ways that couldn’t have been imagined less than a generation ago.

And judging from some of the advertisements that are out there one might get the impression that high-tech hearing aids are the end-all answer to communication difficulties for someone with hearing loss.  People are bombarded with ads on hearing aids telling them that by purchasing the “latest and greatest” from Brand ABC that they’ll immediately hear like they did when they were a teenager.  Being good consumers, they research for hours on end, and then decide on a product with high expectations.      

But for someone with hearing loss, taking that path is like trying to follow a map without directions nor a compass. 

That’s because the first step towards better hearing lies not in selecting a hearing aid, but rather in examining one’s lifestyle and listening needs. 

Regardless of age, people have different lifestyles.  While one person might lead a very active life, another seemingly similar individual might lead a more quiet life.  If both have similar levels of hearing loss, should they both select the “latest and greatest” from Brand ABC?  Of course not!

Instead of focusing on the hearing aid one of the first things I like my patients to do is talk with me about their lifestyles and how that lifestyle is affected by their hearing and communication difficulties.   Whenever possible, I also like to involve a spouse or significant life partner; oftentimes those close to the patient can offer helpful insight about their loved one’s difficulties as well as positive support.

Only after this communication process — coupled with a thorough audiological assessment – is complete is it time to start discussing the appropriate level of hearing technology. 

That is the path that will lead to successful use of today’s hearing aids  …. because hearing is a wonderful gift!

SIDEBAR –  A Slice of Life (Well, 4 of Them, Actually)

Following are four different lifestyle categories.  Where do you fit in? 

Active lifestyles: Characterized by a variety of video and audio entertainment, diverse restaurant dining, sporting events, outdoor activities, demanding careers, group participation, family gathering, movies, driving, mall shopping, and church activities.  Frequent background noise.

Casual Lifestyles:  Typically include activities such as regular conversation, frequent television, quiet restaurant dining, small meetings, family gatherings, driving, shopping trips, movies, and weekly church services.  Occasional background noise

Quiet Lifestyles:  Often feature one-to-one conversations, some television and radio, quiet shopping, trips, and weekly church services.  Limited background noise.

Very Quiet Lifestyle:  Comprised of activities in and around the home, such as limited television, radio, or recorded books, and small church services. Rarely includes background noise.

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/owner of AudigyGroup, the nation’s largest member-owned association of independent hearing care professionals.

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Posted in Audigy Group, AudigyCertified, Cell Phone, Hearing Aids, Hearing Device, Hearing Difficulty, Hearing Lifestyles, Hearing Loss, Hearing protection, Hearing Technology, High-Technology, Treatable Hearing Loss, Uncategorized

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Noise-Induced Hearing Loss: an Epidemic that is Preventable

March 12th, 2010

Noise-Induced Hearing Loss – an Epidemic that is Preventable

By Linda S. Remensnyder, Au.D.
Doctor of Audiology      
Hearing Associates, P.C. . . . Eliminating the Sound of Silence
35 Tower Court, Suite A
Gurnee, IL 60031
www.hearingdoc.com

In the United States, hearing loss is the third most common condition in those over 45 preceded only by high blood pressure and arthritis. A large factor contributing to this statistic is the high noise levels in the United States. From the subway to the airport, to the power tools on the weekends to the motorcycles we drive during the summer, to the music levels we listen to while exercising, to the loud movies our children attend; our citizens are becoming hearing impaired.

Prolonged exposure to potentially damaging noise levels in the workplace has been the subject of much litigation. Certainly, manufacturing environments such as steel mills, foundries, and welding plants are places people typically think of when they think of noise-induced hearing loss. The Occupational, Safety, and Health Administration (OSHA) has made great strides in terms of resolving the issue. Workers such as carpenters, electricians, and construction workers who are not employed in the manufacturing industry are not so lucky. OSHA is unable to exert pressure on their employers because those workers frequently work at different workstations and often work for different employers depending upon the season. Tinnitus (ringing of the ears) and eventual hearing loss is shrugged off as an occupational side effect because everyone has it. Our military has aggressively tried to prevent noise-induced hearing loss by mandating ear protection during target practice and other noisy maneuvers. Research conducted by the U.S. Navy has resulted in the formulation of special antioxidants (one such product is called The Hearing Pill) that can be taken prior to and after exposure to help prevent noise-induced hearing loss. Other preventative substances are in various stages of research and production. Even the sound levels of air-powered instruments that orthopedic surgeons use during surgery exceed those sound levels of manufacturing plants that are being monitored by OSHA.

Many TV and radio professionals have noise-induced hearing loss secondary to the use of earphones for monitoring equipment. And certainly, noise-induced hearing loss is an occupational hazard with musicians. Incidences of noise-induced hearing loss occurring among musicians range up to 52% in classical musicians and up to 30% in rock/pop musicians. Over the past ten years, functionally superior hearing protection products have become widely available for performing artists. Musicians have learned that if they lose their hearing, they’ve lost their livelihood. Unfortunately, they are not making the same diligent effort to preserve the hearing of their audiences. The amplifiers which face out during concerts often cause tinnitus, ear fullness, hearing loss, and sometimes hyperacusis (intolerance to loud sounds) in their attendees. Motorcycle drivers, especially those with Harley Davidsons whose mufflers have been tampered with, generally have a noise-induced hearing loss that’s worse in the right ear. Right-handed use of guns (even when restricted to the hunting season) causes noise-induced hearing loss more pronounced in the left ear. That’s because the right ear is sheltered by the right shoulder as the rifle/shotgun is positioned. Airbags and some leaf blowers have been measured to have the same noise levels as aircrafts. Aerobic instructors can have noise-induced hearing loss because they play the music so loud in the attempt to motivate their students.

IN CHILDREN: Research has confirmed that children are being exposed to excessive and potentially damaging levels of noise. A 7-year nationwide survey indicated that approximately 5.2 million Americans ages 6 to 19 have a noise-induced hearing loss in at least one ear (July 2001, Pediatrics). This is approximately one child in eight having a noise-induced hearing loss. The low-level chronic noise of everyday local traffic has also been shown to cause stress in children and raise blood pressure, heart rates, and levels of stress hormones. In addition, traffic noise has been found to adversely effect children’s motivation. Children’s toys need to be tested before purchase. If the noise levels hurt the parent’s ears, then it will definitely hurt the child’s. According to a recent newsletter from the Sight & Hearing Association, Baby’s First Cell Phone, for example, generates 90dB of noise.

Two things are certain, noise-induced hearing loss is preventable and everyone has unknown and different susceptibility to noise exposure. My own son developed bilateral tinnitus after dropping a few cherry bombs in our driveway before leaving for college. He’s now thirty-five and still has to sleep with a fan running to relieve his tinnitus. He will suffer a lifetime because of that isolated exposure. Be vigilant with your children. If you have to raise your voice to be heard while they are listening to music under earphones, then the sound levels are too high. Original earphone CD players that did not have a maximum loudness level should be replaced with newer ones which have limiting devices in place to preserve the user’s hearing.

WHAT YOU CAN DO: Purchase multiple packets of those squishy spongy yellow earplugs available at sporting good stores or the pharmacy. Also purchase a good pair of headset noise protection earphones. Keep the earplugs in your purse or briefcase and keep a pair of earplugs and earphones in the garage/basement where your power tools are stored. The combination of both earplugs and earphones provides the best hearing protection. If your ears ring or you suspect hearing loss, call for an appointment so the nature of the hearing loss can be documented and you can learn further techniques to prevent further self-inflicted hearing loss. If you are taking ototoxic (hearing toxic) medications (and there are MANY of them—ask your pharmacist), be especially vigilant about not being exposed to noise because your chance of developing a hearing problem is higher than those who are not taking the medications. Your susceptibility is also significantly enhanced if you smoke or if you are a blue-eyed blond. PLEASE, don’t take your hearing for granted. You and your children need good hearing for a lifetime.

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Posted in Audigy Group, Audiologist, Hearing Aids, Hearing Difficulty, Hearing Impaired, Hearing Loss, Hearing protection, Hearing Technology, Noise-induced, Treatable Hearing Loss, Uncategorized

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