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WHAT DOES DIGITAL MEAN?

July 30th, 2010

By: Scott F. Young, Au.D., CCC-A
Doctor of Audiology
Hearing Solution Centers
5525 E. 51st St., Ste 500
Tulsa, OK 74135
(918) 388-6644
www.hearingsolutioncenters.com

Many times patients come to my office and ask about what do those “digital” hearing aids mean to me?  To answer this we have to look back and understand what hearing aids use to be.  Hearing aids generally have three classical definitions for the circuitry inside:  Analog, Programmable, and Digital.

Analog hearing aids are types of circuitry which are set by the manufacturer and give little adjustment to the Audiologist to control.  Analog hearing aids were used for many decades until around 2000-2008 where the manufacturers stopped requesting and making parts for these devices.  Because of the lack of parts available for these devices, it is essentially not repairable and needs to be replaced.

Programmable hearing aids were the beginning of the revolution to allow the Audiologist to change the settings of the aid to better suit his/her patient’s lifestyle more individually.  These were used in the 1990’s primarily and now are virtually unavailable for any repair issues because these parts are also not made anymore.

Digital devices began and started a few times in the 1970-1980’s but began in earnest in the late 1990’s.  Now all devices are digital.  But do not be fooled by sales people telling you that all digital hearing aids are the same because they are not.  Digital devices could have as few as 10 individually adjustments to around 100 separate adjustments that only your AudigyCertified Audiologist can effectively handle.  If, as one of my favorite patients asked me, the birds on the golf course were too loud for you, it can be adjusted effectively and easily.  Many patients have not realized that their devices could be modified to accommodate their specific needs according to their hearing loss and listening lifestyle.

“So can digital hearing aids take away all the sounds I do not want to hear?” This is a common question I hear but the answer is yes and no.  We all hear sounds we do not wish to hear, such as a yelling child in a restaurant, but we all still have to deal with this problem.  What can be fixed is the comfort of that noise to make it not exceed your ability to tolerate that sound (or hurt your ear), unless everyone around you is holding his or her ears as well.

Every year the manufacturers are creating new devices to accommodate the difficult lifestyles our patients see to handle the noise, whistling and other unwanted issues and putting them literally in the rearview mirror of hearing history.  Keep asking an AudigyCertified Audiologist what new technology might be available for you or your loved one.

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Posted in Analog, AudigyCertified, Audiologist, Digital, Digital Hearing Aids, Digital Hearing Devices, Hearing Aids, Hearing Loss, Hearing Technology, Listending Lifestyle, Programmable, Uncategorized

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Hearing Care, the Internet, and “Big Box” Retailers

July 23rd, 2010

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

A full decade into the 21st Century, it would be rare to find an American who has not been to a modern shopping mall or used the Internet.  In fact many of us visit “Big Box” anchored shopping malls at least occasionally, and the number of Americans who regularly use the Internet far exceeds the number who do not.  Even amongst senior citizens — the final demographic to embrace this technology — the gap between Internet users and non-users continues to narrow.

Without doubt, the Internet is a fabulous tool, providing us with a wealth of easily obtainable information in mere seconds.  And the amount of relatively low-priced goods and services that “Big Box” and chain retailers supply can certainly help many families stretch their monthly budget.

But are these two venues the be-all-and-end-all for every consumer scenario?

The short answer is, “Absolutely not!” … especially when it comes to professional hearing care technology and follow-up service.  The Internet outlets as well as “Big Box” and retail chain stores simply cannot provide the level of patient care and service that a full-service, AudigyCertified™ hearing care practice must provide to its patients.

These outlets may tout “low prices” but remember that “price” is only an issue in the absence of value.  And when it comes to hearing care services and technology, value is clearly lacking from these types of retailers.

Compare Apples with Apples

You’ve heard that old saying countless times before and there is a good reason for its longevity.  High volume consumer retailers and Internet companies are famous for blow-out prices on a host of products, many of which are either close-outs on outdated technology or are subsidized by the manufacturer.  Then, they make those skinny margins work for them by cutting corners on labor which means poor service … for you!

This may be fine for a lot of goods such as flashlight batteries, printer paper, bulk grocery items, and various sundries.

But because hearing difficulties are so unique to each and every individual a far different approach is absolutely mandatory for a successful solution.  Achieving that solution should be a process built upon a relationship of trust and respect between the patient and a highly trained, competent, and ethical professional whose services and products provide long-term value.

For example, as a private care Doctor of Audiology and member of Audigy Group™ – the nation’s largest member-owned association of hearing care professionals — my practice is AudigyCertified™ in order to guarantee my patients that they will receive nothing less than the most experienced, professional care available in the Untied States.

All my patients receive the following:

● 100% Service Satisfaction Guarantee in Writing

● Complimentary 75 Day Trial Period on all New AGX Hearing Aid Technology Purchases

● 3 Year Warranty

● 3 Year Loss and Damage Insurance

● Free Batteries … for Life!

● Complimentary Monthly Clean & Check of Technology with Fresh Batteries Installed

● Free Annual Hearing Screening

As a smart consumer, you really do need to make sure you are comparing apples with apples.  And one good way is through the Internet, which, as noted above, shines in providing information.  Check websites. Do research.  Verify credentials as well as state and federal consumer protection laws.  A good website should educate you.

In closing, I founded North State Audiological Services with the goal of offering complete hearing health care ranging from diagnostic testing to treatment for tinnitus, with hearing technology sales and fitting based upon patient need and lifestyle; not on manufacturer incentives.  For my staff and I, our jobs are not about selling something.  Instead, it is all about taking care of our patients and helping them hear better.

Do you have questions for me or about my practice?  You can call toll free at (888) 844-7024, post a comment on this blog, email me at drchalmers@nsaudiology.com or visit my website at www.nsaudiology.com …… 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 170 to be members in this elite association. AudigyCertified™ is a trade-mark of Audigy Group, LLC.

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Posted in AGX Hearing Aids, Audigy Group, AudigyCertified, Chain Hearing Aid Retailors, Crystal Chalmers, Diagnostic Testing, Doctor of Audiology, Hearing Aids, Hearing Care, Hearing Difficulty, Hearing Screening, Hearing Technology, Hearing Test, North State Audiological Serivces, Professional Hearing Care, tinnitus, Uncategorized

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Hearing Aid Donation: Putting Old Hearing Aids to Good Use

July 16th, 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

Tucson, AZ, July 7th, 2010 – To help needy children, Arizona Hearing Specialists is accepting donations of all kinds and brands of gently used hearing aids. The staff repair, clean and then donate them to the children of St. Andrew’s Clinic in Nogales, Arizona.

For many years, Arizona Hearing Specialists has been a proud supporter of St. Andrew’s Children’s Clinic in Nogales, AZ. Dr. Gasch and her staff volunteer time and services to children from Mexico with hearing loss. This is made possible by the generous donations of hearing aids and batteries from our community. Their dedicated team assists in the fitting and follow-up for these children. Ask any team member at Arizona Hearing Specialists about how you can help make a difference with the “gift of hearing.” Arizona Hearing Specialists takes pride in being an upstanding member of the community. That is why they continually strive to provide education to the members of our communities through various educational seminars about hearing, hearing loss, communication and the latest developments in hearing aid technology.

The free clinic is held the first Thursday of every month (except July) and serves over 200 needy children. These children come from all over Mexico and have a wide variety of medical conditions for which they are unable to get treatment elsewhere. The program was founded in 1973 and is the longest running border health project in the United States.  To view a video on the clinic and the volunteers, please watch: http://www.borderbeat.net/default/1262-st-andrews-volunteers
Hearing aid donations are accepted (in person or by mail) at Arizona Hearing Specialists, Monday to Friday from 9 am – 5 pm (closed for lunch) at the following locations:
7574 N La Cholla Blvd, Tucson, AZ 85741; or 512 E Whitehouse Canyon Road, Green Valley, AZ 85614

Founded over 27 years ago by Janis Wolfe Gasch, Au.D., Arizona Hearing Specialists concentrates on the identification, prevention and treatment of those who have hearing loss. In three locations Arizona Hearing Specialists fits the most current technology in hearing aids available from all the major manufacturers. Those who have concerns about hearing loss can reach them at (520) 742-2845 or http://www.arizonahearing.com.

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Posted in Arizona Hearing Specialists, Au.D., Doctor of Audiology, Hearing Aid Batteries, Hearing Aid Donations, Hearing Aids, Hearing Technology, St. Andrew's Clinic, Tucson Hearing Aids

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The Personal Impact of Untreated Hearing Loss

May 6th, 2010

  

The Personal Impact of Untreated Hearing Loss

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 

One of the most commonly unaddressed health conditions in America today, hearing loss affects more than 31.5 million Americans- most of whom are below retirement age. 

Hearing loss can strike at any time and at any age. And when left unaddressed, hearing loss can affect virtually every aspect of an individual’s life. Numerous studies, in fact, have linked untreated hearing loss to a wide range of physical and emotional conditions, including irritability, negativism, anger, fatigue, tension, stress, depression, avoidance or withdrawal from social situations, social rejection and loneliness, reduced alertness and increased risk of personal safety, impaired memory and ability to learn new tasks, reduced job performance and earning power, and diminished psychological and overall health. 

Three in ten people over age 60 have hearing loss. And among Americans age 41 to 59, about 15 percent already have hearing problems- that’s one in sixty baby boomers. Younger still, 74 percent- or one in 14- Generation Xers, ages 29 to 40, suffer from hearing loss. What’s more, at least 1.4 million children, 18 or younger, have hearing problems. And it’s estimated that 3 in 1,000 infants are born with serious to profound hearing loss. 

Despite the numbers and the far-reaching impact hearing loss has on so many aspects of an individual’s life, many people who are aware that their hearing has deteriorated are reluctant to seek help. Unfortunately, too many wait years, even decades, before getting treatment, becoming more and more disconnected as time goes by. 

But the fact is that with modern advances in technology, there are solutions for many. In fact, 90 to 95 percent of people with hearing loss can be helped with hearing aids- and their quality of life significantly improved. 

Common signs of hearing loss: 

Socially, individuals with hearing loss may: 

  • Require frequent repetition
  • Have difficulty following conversations involving more than two people
  • Think that other people sound muffled or like they’re mumbling
  • Have difficulty hearing in noisy situations, like conferences, restaurants, malls, or crowded meeting rooms
  • Have trouble hearing children and women
  • Keep the TV or radio turned up to a high volume
  • Answer or respond inappropriately in conversations
  • Have ringing in their ears ; and/or
  • Read lips more intently watch people’s faces when in conversation.

Emotionally, individuals with hearing loss may: 

  • Feel stressed from straining to hear what others are saying
  • Feel annoyed at others because they can’t hear or understand them
  • Feel embarrassed to meet new people or from misunderstanding what others are saying
  • Feel nervous about trying to hear and understand; and/or
  • Withdraw from social situations that they once enjoyed.

Medically, individuals with hearing loss may: 

  • Have a family history of hearing loss
  • Take medications that can harm the hearing system (ototoxic drugs)
  • Have diabetes, circulation, or thyroid problems; and/or
  • Have been exposed to very loud sounds over a long period or single exposure to explosive noise.

If you or someone you love has shown signs of a hearing impairment, seek out the diagnosis and treatment options from a Board Certified Doctor of Audiology. If you have any questions or would like to make an appointment, please call our office at (360) 892-9367.

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Posted in Audiologist, Doctor of Audiology, Hearing Aids, Hearing Device, Hearing Difficulty, Hearing Impaired, Hearing Loss, Hearing Technology, Ringing in the Ears, Signs of Hearing Loss

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A Guide to an Exceptional Sound Experience

April 29th, 2010

A Guide to an Exceptional Sound Experience

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

May is Better Hearing month- but despite the fact that more than 34 million Americans report hearing problems, relatively few are screened annually. Hearing loss is the third most common health problem in the United States. Although hearing problems are commonly associated with the aging process, they affect all age groups. More than half of hearing impaired persons in the United States are under the age of 65, including 6 million people between the ages of 18 and 44- and more than 14 million are school-age children. Here are some things to be aware of concerning hearing.

Sound voids. Do you hear “ool” but not sure if someone is saying “pool” or “cool”? Do you find yourself saying, “I hear OK, but I have trouble understanding,” or “Soft sounds are too soft but loud sounds are too loud.” Hearing clearly when there’s background noise can be especially difficult for someone with hearing loss, as can be trying to explain your hearing situation.

It’s common for people to be unaware of their hearing loss due to the gradual nature of its progression. As hearing slowly declines, an individual develops compensation strategies without even realizing it. Often it’s others, who are trying to communicate with the individual, who are more aware of the situation. Sometimes it takes years before sufferers seek professional help.

Causes. Sometimes it’s readily apparent, such as wax buildup. Other causes include hereditary factors, trauma, ear disease and certain medications. The cause of hearing loss is sometimes presumed. For instance, noise induced hearing loss is attributed to the use of stereo systems or portable music players is a growing phenomenon.

There are eary ways to tell if a particular sound is potentially harmful. Do you have difficulty talking or hearing others talk over sounds? Does the sound make your ears “ring” (tinnitus), “hurt” or seem “muffled ” after exposure? If you answered “yes” to any of these questions, the noise may be damaging your hearing. Most people don’t realize how loud everyday sounds actually are. Nearly 30 million Americans are exposed to dangerous noise levels each day and 10 million Americans suffer from irreversible hearing damage due to noise.

The diagnostic hearing evaluation. The purpose of a complete evaluation is to determine the true nature of any hearing loss. The diagnostic process may include a variety of tests: audiometric tests to measure hearing at different pitches; speech evaluation to measure how well you hear and recognize ordinary conversation at different volumes; immitance tests of the middle ear; and complete medical evaluations.

Tinnitus is a medical condition characterized by persistent ringing in one or both ears. These sounds can come and go; however most sufferers experience symptoms constantly. The American Tinnitus Association estimates mre than 50 million Americans suffer from tinnitus. It’s also the number one complaint from United States Veterans. In some cases, tinnitus retraining therapy TKT and tinnitus retraining instruments TRI may provide individual solutions.

The balance system. Due to its close proximity to the hearing mechanism, balance is also a part of the comprehensive hearing evaluation. Fear of falling is a major health concern of older individuals. Nearly 300,000 hip fractures result from balance related falls every year. The natural aging process may affect one or all of these senses, as well as the central nervous system’s ability to interpret and react quickly to them. It’s very common to hear from someone who has fallen that they saw the curb or step, but just were not able to react fast enough. With proper diagnosis and therapeutic exercise called balance retraining, many older adults are able to return to a more active lifestyle.

The Communication Needs Assessment. In addition to a medical evaluation and after medican and/or surgical intervention, if an individual still suffers from difficulty communicating, a complete communcation needs evaluation is now the gold standard of hearing care. The first step is identifying the individuals needs: What are the listening situations where they individual would like to hear well? The second step is indentifying the individuals lifestyle. For example, not just if they have trouble hearing in restaurants, but how often they do, or would like to, go to restaurants.

Technology alone doesn’t help people hear better. Instead, it’s how well the practitioner works with the individual and applies the technology. If an individual doesn’t see well through a pair of glasses, it’s not due the “glass”, per se. It has to do with either the measurement of the individual’s vision, the prescription or fit, or some combination. Hearing technology is similar in application. What helps someone hear better is the correct amount of sound at the appropriate pitches for that individual’s heairng loss, environment, and communication needs. Individuals with similar hearing loss may require completely different amplification strategies based on all of the factors mentioned here.

The all-important aftercare completes a comprehensive communication needs assessment for an exceptional sound experience. This includeds assessment of need for assistive listening systems for telephone, Bluetooth, TV, loops, or music systems. In addition to assistive solutions, aftercare will include lip reading and listening skills counseling.

It is important that a hearing-impaired individual take an active role in listening and participate in the recommended auditory retraining and rehabilitation program. The auditory system may not have heard the certain voices and sounds for many years, and the reintroduction of new sounds and voices needs to be presented gradually. In other words, just as the hearing loss may have occurred gradually, the reintroduction of new sound needs to occur gradually.

A hearing screening can quickly and accurately evaluate an individual’s hearing, determine the degree of hearing loss and put him or her on the path toward treatment. After treatment, it’s important to monitor the hearing loss to ensure the technology is meeting an individual’s needs.

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Posted in AudigyCertified, Audiologist, Balance, Dizziness, Hearing Aids, Hearing Device, Hearing Difficulty, Hearing Impaired, Hearing Lifestyles, Hearing Loss, Hearing Technology, Ringing in the Ears, tinnitus, 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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Why Choose an AudigyCertified™ Hearing Care Professional?

March 4th, 2010

  

Trust Audigy Group

Why Choose an AudigyCertified™ Hearing Care Professional? 

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

Did you know that the most exciting news in the field of hearing health care during the past three years isn’t a hearing aid breakthrough, nor is it a software programming revelation. 

No, the most exciting thing to happen in the last three years – perhaps even during my nearly 30 years in audiology — is the formation of Audigy Group™, the largest member-owned association of independent hearing care professionals in the United States. 

Purpose 

Audigy Group’s purpose is to strategically select and certify the most elite practitioners in each market who exemplify the core values of the group’s mission and vision in delivery of hearing and diagnostic services.  Our shared mission is to deliver: 

● Unsurpassed patient satisfaction 

● Excellence through continued education 

● Effective analysis and diagnosis of our patient’s hearing difficulties or balance condition 

● Customized technology solutions that effectively integrate speech comprehension back into our patient’s lives 

● Ongoing investment in the most advanced processes, procedures, and technology to ensure superior results for each patient  

Elite Practices 

Not every audiologist can qualify for membership in this elite, demanding association.  Since its inception three years ago, Audigy Group has interviewed over 5,000 of the 18,000 audiologists in the United States, and, to date, has selected only 140 to be members, of which I am one … and the only one in the entire northeast part of California. 

I am proud and honored to be part of such a prestigious group, because while Audigy Group’s membership may only comprise 2% of the professionals in our field, those professionals represent over 400 offices coast-to-coast in 39 states!   And having been actively involved in the association’s numerous training sessions, conferences, and events for the past two years, I can assure you that its members and staff are simply superb individuals who are committed to being the very best in their profession. 

Raising the Bar in Hearing Care Excellence 

So what does this all mean to you?   By seeking out and insisting on being seen by an AudigyCertified™ professional you are guaranteed to receive the highest level of care available in the nation today.  AudigyCertified™ practices provide to each of their patients the following core values: 

► Experienced Professionals – AudigyCertified™ professionals are carefully selected based on their proven ability to provide the highest level of patient satisfaction. 

► Expert Advice – As independent practitioners, AudigyCertified professionals provide advice and recommendations to their patients based solely on the patient’s needs. 

► Extraordinary Technology – Audigy Group empowers its members to provide their patients with the very best technology solutions from a variety of the top manufacturers in the world.  

►Excellent Service – Through continuous training and self improvement, the goal of every AudigyCertified professional and their staff is to fully and completely stand behind their expertise and technology … every day, of every week, of every month … all year long! 

► Exceptional Value – AudigyCertified professionals understand that “value” is not measured by price alone.  Rather, value is about how well we utilize our knowledge and experience to create a customized solution to meet our patient’s hearing expectations for their unique lifestyle. 

In closing, don’t settle for anything but the best.  Your hearing is too important!  It affects your daily life, as well as the lives of your family and friends.  Insist on seeing an AudigyCertified professional … 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/owner of Audigy Group, the nation’s largest member-owned association of independent hearing care professionals.

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Psychosocial Implications of Hearing Loss

February 26th, 2010

Psychosocial Implications of Hearing Loss

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

When someone discovers that he, she, or a loved one has a hearing loss there is a tendency to experience a feeling of distress.  Oftentimes this emotion coincides with concerns about aging and self-perceived negative social stigmas associated with aging.

These emotions, if turned inward, can cause the person with hearing difficulties to become alienated from family and friends.  Here is what generally occurs.  (Note that this is for individuals who have chosen not to receive professional hearing healthcare.)

1.)  Family members and friends, no matter how well intentioned, become frustrated trying to communicate with the hearing impaired person.

2.)  The person with the hearing loss becomes even more frustrated with the family member(s) and friends who do try to communicate, but lack the learned skills, such as those taught in “Clear Speech”, to do so effectively. 

3.)  The person with the hearing loss sometimes places the blame for miscommunications on the family members or friends because “they speak too fast” or “mumble their words”.  The person with the hearing loss begins to withdraw.

4.)  Family members and friends sometimes confuse the miscommunications with memory loss and erroneously conclude that the person is experiencing diminishing memory capabilities.

5.)  The person with the hearing loss and the family members and friends drift apart in a sort of vicious cycle in which no one involved can help or reach out to the other. 

Left unaddressed, hearing loss can lead to depression, sadness, paranoia, anxiety, insecurity, and a measurable decrease in an individual’s social activity, further enlarging the gap between family and friends. 

 What a sad situation!  And what makes this scenario all the more sad is that it actually occurs quite frequently – and in most cases it doesn’t have to. 

That’s because studies have shown that most people diagnosed with hearing loss can benefit from appropriately chosen and properly fit hearing aids designed for their unique audiological profile. 

One study, conducted in 1999 by the Seniors Research Group for the National Council on Aging (NCOA) found that people within its sample (2,304 hearing impaired people aged 45 and older, with both treated and untreated hearing loss) who had been properly fit with correct hearing aids experienced these benefits:

  • Better relationships with family members and friends
  • Better feelings about themselves
  • Improved mental health
  • Greater independence and security

 Many of the participants also reported improvements in their confidence, relations with children and grandchildren, and a better view of life overall.

The NCOA study confirmed what many audiologists already believed – hearing loss is closely linked to emotional well-being and quality of life.

And yet, many – too many – Americans keep themselves from seeking treatment for a variety of reasons.  In fact, only about 22% of people who could benefit from hearing aids actually do use these products.  If you or a family member are among the 78% who are not using hearing technology, my advice is to seek professional advice from an AudigyCertified professional who has the education, training, and experience for successful hearing technology fitting and counseling. 

Hearing is, after all, one of our five senses and a cornerstone in our ability to communicate with others. 

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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