 Exposure to noises can quickly or gradually worsen a person’s hearing health. It only takes a single loud noise, like fireworks going off near your ears, to cause damage to your hearing. If the sound is very loud, your hearing can be lost instantly. Repeated and extensive exposure to loud sounds can lead to severe hearing loss.
Here’s a list of loud noises that you may regularly be exposed to. If you don’t already do so, wear earplugs or ear muffs whenever you are around these noises. Daily Activities
Entertainment Events
Tools and other Loud Noise Sources
Common Noises and their Decibel Levels Sound is measured through decibels (dB). They can be measured through a decibel meter app that can be downloaded onto your smartphone or tablet. The average human whisper is just 30 dB, normal conversation is about 60 dB, and a running motorcycle engine can reach up to 95 dB. Any noise reaching at least 70 dB can damage hearing if you are exposed to it for an extensive period. Noise over 120 dB can immediately harm your ears and hearing health. Examples of Everyday Noises and How Loud They Are The sounds at these levels usually do not damage hearing. Softest sounds heard by the human ear: 0 dB Normal breathing: 10 dB Ticking watch: 20 dB Soft whisper: 30 dB Refrigerator hum: 40 dB Normal conversational voice, air conditioner: 60 dB These noises may cause minor irritation. Washing machine, dishwasher: 70 dB These noises may cause more irritation. Heavy city traffic (while in a car): 80-85 dB This noise may cause a lot of irritation. Gas-powered lawn mowers and leaf blowers: 80-85 dB A person’s hearing may become damaged after 2 hours of exposure. Motorcycles: 95 dB After 50 minutes of exposure, a person may experience hearing loss. An oncoming subway train, a car horn that is 16 feet away, or a sporting (football) event in an arena: 100 dB Hearing loss may occur after at least 15 minutes of exposure. The maximum volume level for a personal listening device, TV, or loud entertainment venue: 105 - 110 dB Hearing loss may occur in less than 5 minutes of exposure Shouting or barking in the ear: 110 dB Hearing loss may occur within less than 2 minutes of exposure. Being near sirens: 120 dB May experience pain and ear injury in addition to hearing loss. Fireworks: 140 - 150 dB May experience pain and ear injury in addition to hearing loss. If you have hearing loss that was caused by dangerous noise levels, contact us at Pure Sound Hearing for a complimentary hearing test and consultation.  Tinnitus is an incurable ear disorder with symptoms that include a phantom ringing noise that only the person with these indicators can hear. It’s a continuous noise that can range from mild annoyance to torment.
Habituation exercises make the noises less bothersome. The Hidden Ailment Tinnitus is not a condition in and of itself. It is, however, the result of one or many underlying conditions. Hearing loss, head and neck injuries, infections, temporomandibular joint disorder (TMJ), traumatic brain injuries (TBI), vestibular disorders such as acoustic neuroma, circulatory disorders, and Meniere’s Disease can lead to tinnitus. Vitamins, supplements, and medications may also cause these symptoms. About 50 million Americans and over 600 million across the globe are affected by it. That’s nearly 10-15 percent of the people, and most are unaware of this health issue. Dismissive Reactions and Tinnitus Treatments There are ways to treat tinnitus, from sound therapy to hearing aids with masking sounds. Some people get used to the noise to the point where it becomes less annoying. Others are fortunate enough to learn that there are treatment options. Ask yourself whether the noise bothers you. There’s a way to cope with it. Managing Tinnitus How an individual reacts to tinnitus is the key to better dealing with it. Some have an emotional, physical, or psychological reaction to it. You can train your brain to filter out repetitive stimuli, such as sound, from your conscious awareness through habituation. It’s the same as concentrating on something while mentally blocking out background noises or not feeling the clothing on your skin. Everyone who can hear is programmed to respond to noises that can suggest imminent danger, and it’s important not to miss these sounds. The brain cannot distinguish differences between an imaginary threat (tinnitus) and an actual danger. As a result, the emotional reaction that we make is the same. We get the stress and fight-or-flight response. It’s a vicious cycle. You can’t control the sound, but you can gain control over your reactions. How you react can lead to a healthier and more manageable way to deal with this phantom noise. Habituation through Meditation Meditation is a great tool to manage stress. It can be tricky to get the hang of it and focus at first, but with a lot of practice and patience, concentrating on something other than the noise, like breathing or the voice-recorded meditation, can help you ignore the tinnitus. When your mind starts wandering, you may begin noticing the tinnitus again. Simply bring your attention back to focus. For some, meditation can reduce the sound of tinnitus. If you’ve tried meditation, a change in diet, and various exercises, but the tinnitus remains, please contact us at Pure Sound Hearing for a complimentary hearing test and consultation. Programmed hearing aids with a tinnitus masking feature might be the solution.  The month of June is dedicated to men’s health. Be honest. If you’re a man, ask yourself if you have ever shrugged off a health concern as being a minor inconvenience. That neglection can lead to serious consequences later in life.
So, Men’s Health Month is here as a reminder to take care of yourself when it comes to preventable health problems. Early detection and treatment are crucial to maintaining and improving your health - not just for yourself but also for your family and loved ones who care about you. Hearing loss is one health issue that should be detected early for the best treatment options. Hearing problems that remain untreated - including, but not limited to, dementia, depression, and social withdrawal. Preventative treatments are not the only thing to consider when dealing with hearing loss. Good communication and the joys of music, movies, TV, conversations, and other activities are also part of a fulfilling life. Today, there isn’t the same stigma about wearing hearing aids. Just about everyone wears a Bluetooth® device or earbuds in their ears. Address Your Hearing Health and Overall Health If you are or have noticed changes in your ability to hear, this is your reminder to get a hearing test. Contact Pure Sound Hearing for a complimentary hearing test and consultation with one of our hearing aid providers. Recognizing Alzheimer’s and Brain Awareness Month and the Importance of Taking Care of Your Hearing5/30/2023
 June is Alzheimer’s and Brain Awareness Month. Hearing loss, when left untreated, can lead to social isolation due to poor communication and giving up on socializing. As a result, dementia or Alzheimer’s can set in.
According to the World Alzheimer’s Report in 2022, the organization focused on the support available after a person’s dementia is confirmed. This covers various official and informal services. It also provides information that primarily targets the health, psychological, and social wellness of those with dementia and their caregivers post-diagnosis. Alzheimer’s Disease International (ADI) has estimated that 75% of people who have dementia are not formally diagnosed on a global level. The rate of dementia patients is believed to have risen to nearly 90% in different lower and middle-income countries. Alzheimer's is intimidating to manage, especially when professions created to support these patients can be complicated, have various restrictions, or don’t even exist in certain areas. Another report about Alzheimer’s by experts across the globe analyzed the lives of dementia patients, their caregivers, and healthcare providers. Key issues covered in this report included:
If you, or a loved one, are experiencing hearing loss, contact us at Pure Sound Hearing for a complimentary hearing test and consultation.  In honor of Memorial Day, all Pure Sound offices will be closed on Monday May 29, 2023.
 Pure Sound Hearing Aids has won the Readers’ Choice favorite hearing specialist for 8 years in a row thanks to your support!
We would appreciate your vote again this year. To vote for us:
Thank you in advance for your vote! Voting takes place: Now through Friday, June 2, 2023 P.S. - Since we are not holding our Customer Appreciation Picnic this year, you may take a screenshot of your ballot that shows you participated in voting. Send your screenshot to: info@puresoundhearingaids.com, and we will enter you into our drawing to win some great prizes!  With normal hearing, humans use both ears to locate sound in their environment with auditory cues. Studies have shown that people with single-sided deafness (SSD), or loss of hearing in one ear, can detect the location of sound by hearing the various volume levels or noticing a different arrival time of sounds to one ear over the other.
Researchers from the Japan Advanced Institute of Science and Technology (JAIST) and Toyama Prefectural University proposed a state-of-the-art process that estimates the direction-of-arrival (DOA) of sound signals in three dimensions. Applied Acoustics published this study. In it, they reveal the system utilizes monaural cues to estimate DOA and can aid in simplifying microphone designs. The average human can detect environmental sounds with both ears while deciphering auditory cues. Individuals with monaural hearing or SSD can distinguish the location of sounds by hearing how loud or how soft a sound is, in addition to the arrival time of sounds at each ear. Conducting This Study These researchers simulated sound signals using synthetic modulation noise and human speech signals from various directions while taking into account how the ears, torso, and head separated sounds. They collected the monaural modulation spectrum (MMS) of signals and gave a description of their frequencies to recognize important features related to DOA. Their model could correctly estimate the DOA for 829,440 speech signals, which surpassed human monaural hearing. The research needs more testing to take background noise and unique ear shapes into account when making the model. This study can lead to progress in sound surveillance techniques and hearing aid technology. If you or a loved one are experiencing hearing loss, get in touch with Pure Sound Hearing for a complimentary hearing test and consultation.  Generally, symptoms of tinnitus are fleeting, but some people do have symptoms that are so relentless that they can affect their sleep, which can lead to poor mood and difficulty with concentration.
Tinnitus is more of an annoyance than a life-threatening condition. It is the symptom of an underlying problem. Anyone who constantly experiences symptoms of tinnitus may find navigating life a little more challenging than someone who does not have it. Even though there’s no cure, there are ways to find relief. The Cause If you notice symptoms of tinnitus, contact a hearing healthcare provider immediately. The sooner you receive help, the easier it is to control symptoms. Narrowing down the underlying cause will help them determine your best treatment option. 1. White Noise Machines A silent space is the worst environment for anyone with tinnitus. Your brain must redirect its attention to other noise and force the tinnitus into the background. White noise machines or apps can help with this problem. A constant, low-frequency sound will muffle the tinnitus and teach your brain to disregard the noise. Air conditioners, air purifiers, or refrigerators can conveniently be used instead of a white noise machine. 2. Do Not use Ototoxic Medicines If you notice tinnitus after taking a new medication, the pills may be the culprit. Some prescriptions or over-the-counter medications are ototoxic, indicating they can harm your hearing abilities. 3. Treatment Options There is currently no cure for tinnitus, but training your brain to ignore it is possible. If this training, the white noise machines, or changing your medication does not work, find a specialist who focuses on tinnitus treatment. Hearing aids or apps that connect to your hearing aids can drown out tinnitus symptoms. Some hearing aids feature a white noise generator which must be programmed into the device by a hearing instrument specialist. Are you or a loved one experiencing symptoms of tinnitus and hearing loss? Contact us at Pure Sound Hearing for a complimentary hearing test and consultation.  Most people think medical ID bracelets are worn only by patients with health problems involving heart conditions, epilepsy, or other similar illnesses. But people with hearing loss can also benefit from wearing them if they have a medical emergency.
Medical ID Bracelets These are bracelets inscribed with your name, medical condition, the medications you take, and allergies you have. These are NOT the same as medical alert bracelets - wearable alert devices that notify emergency services during a critical medical situation. Instead, these medical ID bracelets are discreet and intended to provide crucial information regarding your health if you can’t communicate after an accident or emergency. Should People with Hearing Loss Wear Medical ID Bracelets? The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends patients with hearing loss should don a medical ID bracelet. If you get into an accident and your hearing aids are damaged, have fallen off, or can’t speak/communicate, the medical ID bracelet would specify vital health information to first responders. Medical ID bracelets will help guarantee that patients receive proper care promptly. Please remember to keep your medical ID bracelet updated. Make sure your emergency contact and medication list are correct. Some ID bracelets have a QR code for medical providers to access the most recent information about a patient’s medications and allergies. A medical ID bracelet for patients with hearing loss lets first responders understand that you cannot easily communicate and prevent mistakes caused by miscommunication or a misdiagnosis. According to a study by Johns Hopkins, medical errors is the third most common cause of death in the U.S., following heart disease and cancer. Medical staff will also be able to assess whether you can get an MRI, CT scan, and X-rays if you wear hearing aids or cochlear implants. If you or a loved one are experiencing hearing loss and believe hearing aids would be beneficial, please contact us at Pure Sound Hearing for a complimentary hearing test and consultation.  Rexton's CROS Hearing Solutions Hearing well is vital to a person’s overall health. Healthy hearing helps a person’s physical and mental health. The human ear is the most favorable and accurate area to track motion and oversee a person’s health.
Why are Ears the Optimal Area to Record Activeness? Your wrist has too many muscles and tendons that move around. The human ear is solely made of cartilage and is one of the most immobile areas of the body. Placing a sensor inside the ear canal makes the signal nearly 100 times clearer than the wrist. The ear creates a stable environment that correlates with your body’s movement. Your wrist can make other movements - not connected to the steps you made. It can lead to inaccurate calculations of steps you’ve taken and record them on your device that displays activity tracking. Hearing aids that feature AI can be found in all modern hearing aids. These devices let you monitor everything from physical activity to hearing activity. You can see graphs on your hearing and physical activity daily, monthly, or annually. If you’ve been holding out on getting new hearing aids, contact us at Pure Sound Hearing for a complimentary hearing test and consultation to learn more about the options available for your specific listening needs.  In addition to Better Hearing and Speech Month, the month of May to raises awareness about strokes. A stroke happens when there’s an obstruction in a blood vessel that transports blood to the brain. It can occur in the form of a clot or rupture that stops oxygen and nutrients from reaching the brain. When this happens, cells can die off.
A stroke that remains untreated can lead to a higher risk of permanent damage to the body. This can range from experiencing debilitation/paralysis on one side of the body, to spasticity, and fatigue. Changes in cognitive functions, including communication, memory, speech, and lack of control in facial muscles may occur. Hearing loss is also a common side effect of enduring a stroke. Some may even experience an ear stroke. Hearing Loss Following a Stroke It is common for patients to experience hearing loss after having a stroke. A person’s auditory system can be negatively impacted at every level. The way they hear and recognize sounds can also be affected. If someone has a history of strokes, they are more prone to experiencing hearing loss. Strokes that alter the outer part of the brain stem have a higher chance of inducing sudden hearing loss. What is an Ear Stroke? An ear stroke can harm your hearing health. Another name for an ear stroke is Sudden Sensorineural Hearing Loss (SSNHL). Just like a regular stroke, it can’t be predicted. It can be a daunting experience because it can happen to anyone at any time, and unfold within a few days. Some people suddenly wake up and notice their hearing has changed, while others will notice a gradual loss over the course of three days. SSNHL usually happens in one ear. The conclusive explanation of SSNHL remains unknown. There might be various causes, including autoimmune diseases, inner ear membranes that have been torn, tumors, vascular occlusion, viral infections, or bacterial infections. Treatment Options that Should be Implemented Immediately If you or someone is experiencing and suffering from a stroke, act fast. The acronym FAST stands for:
Go to the hospital immediately if you or someone near you suddenly experiences a drooping face, weakness in the arms or numbness on one side, or problems with speech (slurring words). You will complete a neurological exam in order to determine and understand the cause of your stroke, along with appropriate treatment options. If you’ve experienced hearing loss after an ear stroke, or for any other reason, please contact Pure Sound Hearing for hearing aid options.  The Journal of the American Medical Association stated that adults 70 years of age and older - with moderate or severe hearing loss had more than a 50 percent chance of mortality than those without hearing loss. Hearing loss itself is not proven to shorten lives. It’s the effects of hearing loss and a combination of factors, such as loneliness and isolation, which leads to dementia or Alzheimer’s that leads to higher death rates.
To get more information on hearing loss and whether hearing aids would benefit you if you have hearing problems, please contact one of our hearing instrument specialists from Pure Sound Hearing.  We’re raising awareness for the month of May about communication which involves hearing and speech.
About five percent of the earth’s population has some range of hearing loss. About five percent of the world’s population also has difficulty with speech. Good communication is crucial in every facet of life. Better Hearing and Speech Month informs others about problems when communicating with someone who hears or speaks differently and how to improve those interactions. A Historical Overview of Better Hearing and Speech Month Better Hearing and Speech Month has had formal recognition in the US for 90 years. Established by the American Speech-Language-Hearing Association in 1927, Better Hearing and Speech Month will raise awareness about obstacles surrounding speech and hearing. Everyone is encouraged to reflect on their speech and hearing and make improvements if necessary. When a person’s hearing becomes impaired, they may slur their speech or mispronounce certain words because they haven’t heard these sounds for so long. Ways to Observe Better Hearing and Speech Month Throughout this month, think about how you hear and speak. Ask yourself if you are being effective enough with your communication or if you accurately receive verbal information. Signs of hearing problems may include:
If you have children or grandchildren, this month also urges you to be aware of any changes in their hearing, speech, or language. Seek help and treatment immediately. Unaddressed hearing loss may impact their confidence and learning skills. If any of these problems become noticeable, get a hearing test. Spread the word about taking care of your hearing and speech. Pure Sound Hearing offers complimentary hearing tests and consultations.  Do you engage in lip reading, cupping your ears and ensuring you sit close to the action? Do you nod your head in agreement and smile even when you can’t hear what others are saying? And do you laugh because others are laughing, just to mask your confusion? If you find yourself doing these things, you may have hearing loss. These are common coping strategies for someone on the fence about getting hearing aids.
Lip Reading coupled with Hearing Aids Relying on lip reading as a primary means of communication is a mistake. It can be challenging to follow along in a conversation this way. When paired with hearing aids, however, it can be a good coping strategy. Reading lips alone is exhausting and overloads your cognitive function. Making mistakes about what someone says is frustrating, but using hearing aids as your primary tool lets lip reading add a whole new dimension to the conversation, especially in noisy environments. Cupping Your Ears Does Not Work Trying to funnel sound into your ears by cupping them doesn’t work as well as wearing hearing aids. It’s a useless coping strategy unless you are in a loud environment or someone speaks very softly. As a result, you may miss vital spatial and speech cues important for understanding conversations. False nodding and Smiling Faking your way through a conversation only hurts you. Stick with a patient friend or family member who doesn't mind repeating things for you. It is better to ask again what someone is saying versus pretending to hear. Why? If you struggle to converse with loved ones, you will miss out on the fun if you don’t ask what’s happening. And, if you are at work, you could get fired for not doing assigned tasks you didn’t hear or for missing crucial points in a meeting. Pretending to understand a conversation only invites trouble. You deprive yourself of the meaning of these conversations and miss important information. Laughing to go along with Others Laughing to go along with others only makes things worse. If someone is insulted, and everyone laughs, you might not want to do the same. Also, the joy of conversing with others becomes absent because you can lose track of what was said. Authentic laughter is best; that is another reason hearing aids are the best coping strategy you can employ. Trying to cope without Hearing Aids can be Very Challenging There are some strategies commonly utilized by people with hearing loss. And where lip reading counts, it is only a secondary strategy at best. Enjoy your life, save your job, and be true to yourself--get hearing aids to have the best coping mechanisms possible. You will preserve your cognitive function, your life will be more enriched, and you will have less mental strain and stress. Contact one of our hearing instrument specialists at Pure Sound Hearing for a complimentary hearing test.  Today is the 28th annual celebration of International Noise Awareness Day. This day is recognized in order to raise awareness about potential harm that noise can cause to hearing, health, and overall quality of life. It's meant to create changes that need to be made within your community when it comes to harmful noise and taking care of your hearing.
Participants are encouraged to safely organize noise awareness activities within your local community. You may also bring attention to it through social media posts with hashtags like:
The main message that International Noise Awareness Day wants to get across is: Protect Your Hearing, Protect Your Health! If you or a loved one are experiencing hearing loss, get in touch with one of our hearing aid providers at Pure Sound Hearing for a complimentary hearing test and consultation.  Life is full of ups and downs, and challenges are bound to occur. These challenges often lead to stress.
To anyone reading this blog, you are fully aware that hearing loss can cause stress. Whether you feel anxiety over engaging in a conversation in a loud and crowded area, experience listening fatigue, or have tinnitus, we’ve got some tips on how to deal with the stress of these problems. Simply receiving treatment for hearing loss can significantly lower your stress levels. Hearing better and having smoother interactions with others can be less stressful. Improving stress management skills can have a lasting effect on your overall health. We’re recognizing Stress Awareness Month by sharing how hearing loss treatment with hearing aids can help with your interactions, reconnections, and lower stress. 1. Wearing Hearing Aids can Reduce Social Anxiety and Withdrawal Connecting with others on a social level is a great way to relieve stress. If you’re feeling overwhelmed, it helps to divert attention away from problems you may face while offering support and encouragement. Wearing hearing aids can make you feel more confident to talk to family and friends, participate in volunteer work within your community, or enjoy things like going to a movie theater and hearing live music again. 2. Tinnitus Relief Tinnitus can cause a lot of stress. Wearing hearing aids can help lower those stress levels. According to one study, 60 percent of patients felt small to significant alleviation from their tinnitus while donning hearing aids. The rest of the patients felt significant relief with their hearing aids. These devices can be programmed by your hearing instrument specialist to feature tinnitus relief, which may be accessed through a customized channel on your hearing aids. 3. Keeping Fit with Hearing Aids Being physically active has been a proven stress reliever. Your brain receives endorphins when focusing your attention away from daily problems to the movements in your body. Donning hearing aids helps with an active lifestyle (including light or intense exercises) by reducing the risks of tripping and/or falling. Hearing aids can help you be more aware of your environment with omnidirectional microphones programmed as an optional feature. These microphones will capture sound from every direction, but you can switch back to a directional microphone if you are in a situation where you want to focus on sounds that are coming from the angle in which you face. If you are biking, and want to be aware of sounds from all directions, use the omnidirectional feature. 4. Don’t miss out on a Joke Everyone knows that laughter is a huge stress reliever. The Mayo Clinic has found that laughing decreases your mental load while starting up and lowering your stress response. Stream a comedy through your hearing aids or hang out with your funniest friends. It’ll make you feel much better and you’ll have a fun time. Work on managing your stress this month, so that you can set yourself up for managing it better from now on. If necessary, get help from hearing aids by scheduling an appointment with one of our providers from Pure Sound Hearing in Elizabethtown, Lititz, or Strasburg.  Dating is difficult all around. But hearing loss adds another dimension of difficulty. Do you tell your date about your hearing loss upfront? It’s probably best. If communication fails, will it lead to no second date? Since people rarely change how they communicate--like speaking softly, for example, losing out on another date might not be so bad. You’ll want to find someone who understands and will work with you, so here are five tips to help better your chances:
 Connecting with others is crucial in every kind of relationship from romantic ones, to your family members, co-workers, friends, and ordinary people who help you throughout your day.
Good communication requires listening, which is key to understanding. You can’t be close to someone unless you can properly communicate with them. Getting help from an actual hearing instrument specialist is important. It saves you time and money compared to purchasing a cheap hearing device online or over-the-counter. Hearing aid professionals are highly trained and skilled to listen to patients and understand the problems that they encounter on a daily basis, versus a salesperson online or over-the-counter. The Difference Between Hearing Instrument Specialists and Online/Over-the-counter 1. Hearing instrument specialists will listen to you in order to understand the obstacles you face each day. Your hearing aids will be programmed and fitted based on your individual needs. 2. Online and over-the-counter providers simply “listen to respond” so that they can make a sale. Do Not Waste Your Time, Energy, and Money on Someone who does not Listen to Your Hearing Needs Do yourself a favor by getting advice and feedback from an expert in the field, who will work with you at your initial consultation, during your trial period, and provide aftercare services once you’ve settled in with your new hearing aids. An actual person who tirelessly works to understand and help you with your hearing situation will not only help you create better connections and communication skills but they will also be available whenever you have questions or concerns about your devices. To schedule an appointment with one of our hearing instrument specialists, contact us at Pure Sound Hearing.  More than 37 million Americans experience some range of hearing loss. Severe hearing loss can turn the average conversation into whispers and music may only sound like a faint humming noise.
What are the Symptoms of Severe Hearing Loss? Hearing loss, whether it’s sudden or gradually occurs over time, can make conversations difficult to follow. In addition to hearing loss, you may also experience:
What are the Degrees of Hearing Loss? In order to determine the range of your hearing loss, an audiogram may be used during a hearing test. This can show your degree of hearing loss by looking at the range of decibels (dB) - a measurement of sound - that you are able to hear.
1. Conductive hearing loss: caused by an issue in the ear canal, eardrum, or middle ear that restricts sound from traveling to the inner ear. This can happen due to an ear infection, fluid build-up, a mass (cholesteatoma), or an object in the ear - like earwax build-up. 2. Sensorineural hearing loss: typically caused by damage done to the inner ear’s hair cells. Other causes may include damage to the auditory nerve which impacts your hearing, or the brain. It normally occurs as you age, or due to excessive exposure to noise, genetic factors, trauma, radiation, or chemotherapy. 3. Mixed hearing loss: this is a combination of conductive and sensorineural hearing loss. There could be complications in the outer ear, middle ear, inner ear, or auditory nerve. This can happen as a result of a serious or even seemingly minor head injury, long-term infection, or genetic disease. Hearing loss can occur in one or both ears. It can be sudden or gradually worsen as you age. If you notice sudden hearing loss, contact us a Pure Sound Hearing for a complimentary hearing test and consultation. What causes Severe Hearing Loss? In normal, healthy hearing, sound waves are harnessed from the outer ear and travel to the eardrum and middle ear bones which then vibrate. The sounds then move to the inner ear through the cochlea (a shell-shaped tube). While the fluid is moving, thousands of tiny hair cells also move and then translate the vibrating sounds into nerve signals. These signals travel to the brain and are converted into detectable sounds. Hearing loss occurs due to complications in the areas of your ear that allow you to hear. The following conditions can induce severe hearing loss: Age: Also known as presbycusis, as people age sections of the ear, like so many other areas, become less resilient. When tiny hairs become damaged, it’s permanent. As a result, they cannot respond to sound waves as effortlessly. Without any intervention, hearing loss may worsen over time. Exposure to Loud Noise: Noises that come from the music blaring through earbuds to power tool noises, or planes, trains, and automobiles can harm the hair cells located in the cochlea. The volume level, plus the length of time you spend hearing the sounds can determine how much hearing you’ll lose. Learn more about noise-induced hearing loss (NIHL) from “9 Facts About Noise-Induced Hearing Loss”. Ear Infections: These can cause a build-up of fluid in the middle ear. Normally, the hearing loss caused by an ear infection is mild and goes away within a short period of time. If infections are not treated, they could become serious long-term problems. Perforated Eardrum: An ear infection, exposure to loud sounds, head trauma, or too much ear pressure from flying in an airplane or scuba diving can harm the eardrum. A hole, that may or may not heal, could form. Based on how large the hole is, a person might experience mild to moderate hearing loss. Cholesteatoma: This is an accumulation of skin in the middle ear that is caused by a collapsed eardrum or when the skin grows and spreads through a hole in the eardrum. Cholesteatomas can develop over time and cause hearing loss by ravaging the middle ear bones or, in rare instances, the inner ear. Diseases or Infections: Measles, meningitis, mumps, and syphilis are some conditions that can cause hearing loss. Ménière's Disease: There are some symptoms of this inner ear disorder including dizziness, feelings of fullness in the ear, temporary hearing loss, and tinnitus. Hearing loss that is associated with Ménière's disease tends to worsen, but only affects one ear. Tumors: Cancerous or benign tumors can induce hearing loss. This includes acoustic neuroma, paraganglioma, and meningioma. If a patient has a tumor, they may also experience feelings of numbness in their face, weakness, and tinnitus. An obstruction in the ear caused by an object: When there is a foreign object that is lodged in your ear, it can block out the ability to hear. This may include debris or hardened earwax buildup. Misshapened ear: Some patients are born with ears that are shaped differently, and may create challenges with hearing. Trauma: Skull fractures or a punctured eardrum can induce severe hearing loss. Medications: Certain drugs, such as antibiotics, aspirin, chemotherapy drugs (carboplatin, cisplatin), and large quantities of Vicodin can cause hearing loss. In some cases, the hearing will return after you stop taking the drug. In many cases, hearing loss becomes permanent. Genetic Factors: Scientists have discovered that there are genes that make people more likely to experience hearing loss, especially as they age. In most cases, screenings for newborns find genetic hearing loss, but it can be found later. Autoimmune Disorders: Lupus and rheumatoid arthritis can impact hearing. It is one of the main symptoms of a number of autoimmune disorders, which include Behcet’s disease, Cogan’s syndrome, and Wegener’s granulomatosis. If you or a loved one are experiencing hearing loss, please contact us at Pure Sound Hearing for a complimentary hearing test and consultation. Our specialists will go over your test results and suggest appropriate treatment options. Immediate testing and wearing hearing aids is required to slow down and properly treat hearing loss.  When it comes to failing vision, people usually seek help immediately, but that’s not always the case with hearing loss. The average person waits nearly 7-10 years to seek help. Hearing loss is gradual in many cases, but evidence points to many adverse effects on a person’s physical and mental health. If you get treatment for hearing loss, you eliminate at least 12 negative consequences to your life. Think about that. Is it worth it?
12 Reasons Why You Should Address Hearing Loss 1. It may cause impaired memory, cognitive decline, and risks of dementia/ Alzheimer’s. 2. Safety can be a concern, for example the inability to hear oncoming traffic or potential danger approaching. 3. Income disparity may occur due to making more mistakes at work. 4. You might miss a connection with someone. 5. It causes social isolation, which can lead to depression. 6. You won't be able to hear someone call for help. 7. You'll miss a child's first words. 8. People with unaddressed hearing loss tend to have a lower quality of life. 9. There's an increase in anxiety because you'll be less aware of your surroundings. 10. There is a greater chance of falling due to balance issues related to hearing loss. 11. Missing out and forgetting what nature sounds like. 12. You may be misjudged or miss-characterized based on what you thought was stated and what was actually stated. Don’t let hearing loss progress. Improve the quality of your life by scheduling an appointment with Pure Sound Hearing.  When provided with a pair of hearing aids, your hearing instrument specialist will program the device based on your hearing test results. You should also receive a tutorial about caring for your hearing aids.
You may notice some changes with your hearing aids, including a difference in snugness/comfort, volume levels, feedback noise (high-pitched squealing noises), or some other issues that have come up. It’s a common occurrence within the first few months for anyone who tries new hearing aids. A few short visits with your hearing instrument specialist will get you back on the right track when adjusting to your hearing aids. Home Care for Your Hearing Aids All technology, whether dealing with hearing aids or any electronic device - like your phone, needs appropriate care. Regular cleanings with a soft cloth can keep your hearing aids clear from debris. Check the power levels on the batteries or make sure they are fully charged for the next day. If they come in contact with any moisture, store them in a dryer box container. You can also submerge them in a container of uncooked rice to draw out the moisture. Our specialists at Pure Sound recommend receiving a thorough cleaning from one of our professionals once every six months. When Should You Get Your Hearing Aids Adjusted? You should schedule an appointment with your hearing instrument specialist at least two times each year. Schedule a check-up if your hearing aids don’t fit comfortably or you can’t hear clearly from them. If you experience any of the following problems, come and see one of our hearing aid specialists:
The Hearing Aid Adjustments It’s common to have fluctuations in hearing so eventually, your hearing aids will require reprogramming. Why Reprogramming is Needed
Your hearing aid provider can make adjustments to your hearing aid settings that include blocking out background noise, frequency settings, and volume settings. If your provider believes your hearing has changed, an additional hearing test may be conducted. Your test results will help determine your optimal hearing aid settings. The material from your custom ear molds can become worn and weathered, leading to an uncomfortable fit. Your hearing instrument specialist can create new molds or tailor the current ones to fit better. If you need a hearing test, a re-test, and customized or standard hearing aids, contact Pure Sound Hearing.  Everyone knows that hearing loss is generally caused by exposure to loud noise and aging. But did you know that some chemicals and medications can also damage the inner ear, and cause hearing loss? The literal translation of “ototoxicity” is “ear poison”. Medications or chemicals that are ototoxic can cause balance problems, hearing loss, and tinnitus.
Typical Ototoxicants There are five primary categories of ototoxicants, which include:
Most people do not store these powerful solvents and compounds inside their homes, therefore the ototoxicants that the general public comes across are nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) like aspirin, ibuprofen, and naproxen sodium. Ototoxic symptoms can include fatigue, headaches, nausea, nystagmus (involuntary eye movement), and vertigo. Before hearing loss becomes noticeable, tinnitus normally occurs first. Are there Treatment Options for Ototoxicity? The hair cells located in the inner ear are extremely fragile, so there’s no helpful treatment for ototoxicity. Once your hair cells are damaged, that is permanent along with your ability to hear. Preventative action is the best way to approach this. If your hair cells are not permanently damaged after an exposure, hearing, and balance may recover in a matter of months. If your hearing is permanently damaged, hearing aids and other hearing therapies can help. A professional hearing healthcare provider can help you choose the best options for you. How to Avoid Ototoxicity Ototoxicity can be averted by refraining from coming in contact with substances that contain ototoxic substances. It may be difficult to attain this as many life-saving medications like chemotherapy drugs are also ototoxic. You must decide by weighing the risks and benefits. Raising awareness for the general public as well as drug manufacturers who are developing ways to diminish these side effects and figuring out advanced treatment options that won’t impact hearing health, is the first step to tackling this issue. Talk to your healthcare provider about your concerns with ototoxicity, and understand what substances you’ll be coming in contact with if there are any risks in your work environment. Understanding and reducing these risks will help keep you safe. If you, or a loved one, are experiencing hearing loss and believe hearing aids would be helpful, please contact us at Pure Sound Hearing for a complimentary hearing test and consultation.  Everyone’s ears produce earwax - some more than others. It’s normal and healthy. The purpose of earwax is to protect your ears from bacteria, dirt, and dust particles from getting deeper into the ear canal, which may cause an infection. It moves these particles to the outer part of the ear so you can gently clean it off with a warm, damp cloth. Too much earwax buildup can become a problem, especially while wearing hearing aids.
The buildup of earwax can lead to damaged hearing aids. Loud feedback noises, muffled/poor sound quality, an uncomfortable fit, and worsened hearing may also occur. Contact your hearing instrument specialist for professional and thorough cleanings so that you can remove earwax buildup. Your hearing aid provider should have reviewed how to handle light, daily cleanings, and general maintenance practices with you during the initial hearing aid trial period. How can Hearing Aids lead to Earwax Problems? Earwax tends to build up more for hearing aid users. The devices are more likely to cause the cerumen glands located in the ears to become stimulated and create more earwax. Sometimes, hearing aids can prevent the wax from instinctively clearing itself out of the ears. A hearing healthcare provider can discuss regular cleanings with you if you frequently experience earwax buildup. Regular cleanings can lower the chances of buildup, ear infections, and additional hearing loss while keeping your hearing aids functioning. How can Earwax lead to Hearing Aid Problems? If you experience too much earwax build-up in your ears, and it doesn’t clear out on its own, your hearing aids can become damaged. The wax can obstruct sounds, making them harder to hear. The hearing aid receiver (the piece that goes in the ear canal) can become clogged. Sounds from the microphone won’t be able to transfer through. This ricochet’s the sound waves back, which creates feedback noise - the high-pitched sounds that can be painful to hear. When the vents and receivers become blocked with earwax, the hearing aids won’t be helpful. Any moisture from the earwax can also harm the hearing aid and cause battery erosion, leading to severe defects in hearing aids. Preserve Your Hearing Aids with Cleanings Nearly 60-70% of hearing aids that need professional repairs are due to damage caused by earwax buildup or other natural materials. Simply cleaning them on your own or getting a professional cleaning can save you the hassle of regularly dealing with glitches, problems, and repairs. Your hearing instrument specialist will help you select the proper cleaning kit for your hearing aids if necessary. Tools such as dry cloths, professional strength cleaning wipes, wax picks, tube and vent cleaners, and brushes will be available. Clean your hearing aids using a soft, dry cloth to wipe them down. You should be able to see most of the wax on the devices. If your hearing aids have a wax guard or filter, check and change them out regularly if dirty. The sound bore (the tip where sound releases from the hearing aid) can become obstructed with earwax or debris. Use a cleaning tool with a brush or loop to remove any debris. Hearing aid tubing can also become obstructed. Use a wax loop or air blower to extricate earwax or other debris. We’ve mentioned earlier that earwax can build up and cause too much moisture to accumulate on the hearing aids. Moisture can harm your hearing aids and lead to a corrosive battery. If this happens, inform your hearing instrument specialist and ask about a hearing aid dryer or dehumidifier. What is the Proper way to Clean Your Ears? If you need to clean out the earwax in your ears, you need to be careful. Depending on how much earwax you produce and how thick the wax is, cleaning your ears out with cotton swabs or any other small object may push the earwax deeper into the ears. It can cause a blockage which can restrict your ability to hear. Do not engage in ear candling. It's best to use a warm wet cloth to wipe off earwax that naturally releases from the ear. You may also gently wipe your ears with warm water during a shower or a bath. If you need a professional cleaning for your hearing aids, please contact us at Pure Sound Hearing.  A clinical trial conducted by Frequency Therapeutics has ceased to continue its research on the stem cell drug FX-322 due to poor outcomes. There were too many obstacles when treating hearing loss with medication.
The best option for treating hearing loss continues to be hearing aids for sensorineural hearing loss. FX-322 is an injection for the ear drum. The objective of the drug trial was to discover whether it could succeed in changing stem cells into stereocilia - hair cells located in the cochlea which make hearing possible. Studies on different types of hearing loss included age-related hearing loss (presbycusis). The Results are Not Hopeful In the category of improved speech perception, the data collected revealed little differences at the 90-day mark between individuals given FX-322 and those who received a placebo. In the summer of 2021, investors filed lawsuits against Frequency Therapeutics for their false claims about the clinical trials. The company also stopped developing another drug in its first phase of safety trials, known as FX-345. There is no Hearing Loss Cure The trials are part of research to find a way to reverse specific types of sensorineural hearing loss. Sensorineural hearing loss is when hair cells in the inner ear and/or auditory nerve - which attaches the ear to the brain - become damaged. Hair cells can become damaged due to genetic disorders, aging, and/or a single or prolonged exposure to very loud noise. Wearing hearing aids can help with sensorineural hearing loss. It uses the patient’s residual hearing and specific programmed settings that amplify what they need to hear. Modern digital hearing aids are significantly more advanced than old rudimentary models, but they still cannot restore hearing back to normal. Seeking immediate treatment after experiencing hearing loss due to noise exposure is crucial for reducing further damage and loss. Steroids are commonly used in these cases. You still need to be careful about using steroids so as not to worsen or induce hearing loss. Don’t wait to seek Treatment for Hearing Loss These drugs will eventually get injected into the middle ear, but this treatment will not be available at your local hearing clinic anytime soon. Approval from the Food and Drug Administration is needed first, which will take several years. So, if you are or have been noticing hearing loss, get tested and treated as soon as possible. Hearing aids don’t just help with daily communication, but they also reduce loneliness, isolation, and the onset of dementia and Alzheimer’s. Contact one of our hearing aid providers from Pure Sound Hearing as soon as possible. |
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