How Severe Is Your Hearing Loss?
According to a cross-sectional analysis of data collected between 2001 and 2010, “An estimated 25.4 million, 10.7 million, 1.8 million, and 0.4 million US residents aged 12 years or older, respectively, have mild, moderate, severe, and profound better-ear hearing loss.” If you suspect you have hearing loss, you may be wondering how it would be…
What Is TMJ-Related Hearing Loss?
Temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disorder refers to dysfunction of the hinge that connects your lower jaw to your temporal bone. Because this joint is located so close to the ears, TMJ disorder can sometimes affect their function, too. We review the connection below. Symptoms of TMJ-Related Hearing Loss Some of the more common symptoms of TMJ…
Protect Your Hearing This Audiology Awareness Month
Exposure to loud noise is one of the most common causes of hearing loss. Since October is Audiology Awareness Month, we thought it was the perfect time to talk about how to protect your hearing. How Noise Can Cause Hearing Loss Prolonged exposure to any noise over 85 decibels can lead to noise-induced hearing loss…
How To Make the Most of Virtual Meetings When You Have Hearing Loss
If you’re like millions of other Americans who have transitioned to either working full-time or part-time from home, you’ve certainly experienced an increase in virtual meetings. If you have hearing loss, this may present some unique challenges. The good news is that there are many ways to make it easier to hear and participate in…
Is There a Link Between Cystic Fibrosis and Hearing Loss?
Multiple health conditions have been linked to an increased risk of hearing loss, including high blood pressure and diabetes. Research has shown that patients with cystic fibrosis may be at a higher risk of hearing issues as well. Cystic Fibrosis and Temporary Hearing Loss Cystic fibrosis (CF) is an inherited disorder affecting the cells that…
The Link Between Hearing Loss & Chickenpox
While once a common childhood disease affecting millions of kids each year, chickenpox cases have been drastically reduced through routine vaccinations. Chickenpox is a viral infection that causes an itchy rash and small, fluid-filled blisters to develop. A lesser-known symptom of this viral infection is hearing loss. Understanding Chickenpox The varicella zoster virus (VZV) is…
Why Do Some Antibiotics Cause Hearing Loss?
Some antibiotics are ototoxic. This means they have the potential to damage the ear, resulting in tinnitus, balance issues and hearing loss. Let’s take a look at how this happens, when these medications are used, and what to look out for if you have recently taken them. How Antibiotics Can Damage the Ear Aminoglycosides are…
Habits You Should Quit for Your Hearing Health
Even though we all have our bad habits, some are more harmful than others. In fact, some can harm your hearing health. Below we review four habits to quit today. Smoking/Vaping Within the inner ears are tiny hair cells called stereocilia that convert soundwaves into electrical energy that the brain interprets as sound. These cells…
Traumatic Brain Injury and Your Hearing
A traumatic brain injury (TBI) is a serious medical condition that often results from a violent blow or jolt to the head that temporarily impairs the function of the brain. Some common causes of TBI include: Car accidents Falls Sports or recreational injuries Gunshot wounds The symptoms of a TBI can vary widely depending on…
Helping a Loved One with Hearing Loss
Hearing loss happens gradually. Sometimes a family member or close friend might notice a person is having hearing problems before they notice themselves. Have you noticed that a loved one: Frequently asks you or others to repeat themselves when talking Expresses difficulty hearing in loud environments Complains that everyone is mumbling Always has the TV…