 The holidays are coming, so people are getting ready to gather with friends and family to celebrate! Planning and communicating through texts, emails, social media, and phone calls can get hectic.
November is Alzheimer’s Awareness Month. It is commonly associated with hearing loss that has gone untreated, so we also want to remind people to monitor their hearing health - which often goes unnoticed. Alzheimer’s is Not a Natural Part of Aging Alzheimer’s is a disease that impacts the area of the brain that manages memory, speech, thought processing, and problem-solving. The most common type of Alzheimer’s is dementia. Not all elderly people develop Alzheimer’s. Simply being a little forgetful does not indicate that you have Alzheimer’s. Alzheimer’s can manifest itself as standing in a familiar spot and not knowing where you are, getting lost in familiar places, difficulty handling money and paying bills, repeating yourself over and over again in a short span of time, taking longer to complete simple tasks, having poor judgment, losing things or putting them in strange places, or changes in mood and personality. Dementia and Hearing Loss Over 48 million people in the U.S. have some range of hearing loss. Most people who would benefit from hearing aids do not use them. Several factors can account for the reason why including the stigma that comes with hearing loss, the cost of hearing aids, or not believing their hearing is as bad as it actually is. Evidence and professional research have associated dementia with hearing loss that went untreated. Problems with hearing can affect the way the brain functions and researchers believe that untreated hearing loss shifts cognitive performance - overworking some areas while not using others - which raises the chances of dementia. The brain works like muscles in the body, they become atrophied if you don’t exercise them. Hearing is an exercise for the brain. When you find it difficult to process information during conversations due to hearing loss, this is known as cognitive overload. Struggling to process sounds, while reading people’s lips when they talk, or reading non-verbal cues causes stress to the brain. As a result, other parts of the brain that are used to solve problems or create memories can’t function properly. Brain imaging that was done on seniors who had untreated hearing loss showed evidence that there were areas of the brain which were inactive. Isolation and Dementia caused by Hearing Loss A healthy brain thrives on socializing, exercising, and keeping up with your hobbies. Those with untreated hearing loss have been shown to be socially isolated due to struggles with hearing and communication. Alienating themselves feels easier and less frustrating than trying to make out a conversation with someone. Hearing loss that goes untreated can have a ripple effect on your life and mental health. It’s best to seek treatment as soon as possible. Get Your Hearing Tested Immediately If hearing aids are recommended after your hearing test, studies have shown that seniors who have hearing loss and cognitive problems can find hearing aids to be helpful. Contact Pure Sound Hearing for a complimentary hearing test and consultation from one of our hearing aid providers. They’ll go over your hearing test results and recommend the appropriate treatment options. Do You Have Trouble Hearing? Check out these 5 Apps to Help with Communication and Hearing Health.10/18/2022
 If you have difficulty with hearing, conversing with others, and find yourself feeling left out in certain situations, in addition to using hearing aids, you can try an app.
Here’s a list of five apps to help you communicate with the people around you.
If you, or a loved one, are noticing hearing loss please contact us at Pure Sound Hearing for a complimentary hearing test and consultation.  It’s normal for your hearing aids to get clogged with earwax after wearing them for an extensive amount of time.
Earwax, or cerumen, is crucial for ear health. It’s a natural, protective coating for the skin inside your ear canals. It traps bacteria and debris while keeping the ears lubricated so that your ears don’t get itchy and dry. If you produce too much earwax, it can get impacted and obstruct your ear canals and hearing aids. The sounds you hear may become distorted. If earwax is causing problems with your hearing aids, here’s some advice on cleaning out the wax from your devices. 1. Use a Hearing Aid Cleaning Kit Your hearing instrument specialist should offer cleaning kits when you purchase hearing aids. If they don’t provide a cleaning kit, you can stop by one of our Pure Sound Hearing offices and buy one. The kits include a soft cloth, a brush, a wax pick/wire loop, and a wax guard tool. You may also purchase professional-grade cleaning wipes. Do not use alcohol or alcohol wipes to clean your hearing aids or any electronics, as they can damage the devices. 2. Examine Your Hearing Aids Before cleaning the devices, look at your hearing aids to see what areas need polishing. You should be able to pinpoint the grimy spots where earwax, dust, and other debris have built up. To remove it, carefully use the soft, dry cloth or a brush tool from your hearing aid provider to brush it off. If earwax cannot be removed, use the wax pick/wire loop. 3. Filters and Wax Guards Most standard hearing aids feature a filter or wax guard. The user can remove and replace these without trouble. Depending on how much earwax you produce, you should change them regularly. Examine these areas each day and replace them as necessary. 4. Earmolds and Sound Bores Sounds get collected to your ears through earmolds (the part that rests in the ear canals) or sound bores (avenues through the earmold where sound is received from the hearing aid and transmitted to the ear canal). These sections need to be regularly checked. If there’s earwax on it, use the brush or wax pick/wire loop to clear it off. 5. Clean the Tubing Earwax can clog the tubing in behind-the-ear (BTE) hearing aids. If there’s earwax in the tubing, use an air blower or small flexible wire to dislodge it. If you are experiencing any problems with your hearing aids or need help cleaning them, please contact us at Pure Sound Hearing. We recommend getting a professional hearing aid cleaning at least every six months or less.  When you’ve scheduled your hearing fitting, you might want to prepare yourself for what will happen during your appointment. A proper fitting is more than just receiving the right hearing aids.
What to Expect After the hearing instrument specialist (HIS) presents you with options for hearing aids, the next step is selecting which pair to try out during your fitting appointment. This session will help determine comfort and compatibility in different situations. You will also learn about various features, how your hearing aids function, and maintenance practices. There will be a discussion about your lifestyle and hearing needs. How to Prepare Yourself There aren’t any specific things to do to prepare for your appointment, but you can alleviate any concerns you may have by learning about hearing aids. Understanding a little bit about the devices will make you feel less anxious. Ask your HIS about the devices before settling on your hearing aids. Be prepared to receive a tutorial from your provider when you have your follow-up appointment. Do Your Hearing Aids Hurt while being Worn? Some people give up on wearing hearing aids because the devices hurt their ears. Hearing aids should not cause pain when inserted in your ear canals. If they feel uncomfortable, your provider should readjust the size of your domes or create a new hearing aid mold until they feel comfortable. During the fitting session, you and your HIS will discuss which hearing aid style you prefer and how they will help with your listening needs. Aftercare Services After being fitted for hearing aids, you will need to revisit your HIS. Your provider may need to recalibrate your hearing aids so that you are getting the most out of them. Don’t hesitate to ask questions about the devices if you have any problems. Are you, or someone you know, looking for new hearing aids? Contact us at Pure Sound Hearing for a complimentary hearing test and consultation with one of our specialists.  Ear infections can make wearing hearing aids complicated for any user. If you are experiencing an ear infection, immediately receive antibiotics. This usually helps to clear the infection. Regular cleanings (completed by you on a daily basis or your hearing aid provider every 6 months or less, depending on how clogged up they are), and replacing hearing aid domes can also reduce the risk of infection.
If you experience swelling in your ears, this can lead to an improper hearing aid fitting. Swelling may also muffle sounds or temporarily alter the way you hear acoustics. Some patients who had ear infections for many years may notice hearing loss for the duration of the condition. Recurring infections may require users to purchase new hearing aids altogether. Bacteria cause ear infections, and if the hearing aids are not thoroughly cleaned or can’t be completely disinfected, infections can occur over and over again. Hearing Aid Users should Treat Minor Outer Ear Infections What you should do if you wear hearing aids and have an outer ear infection, and it does not clear on its own:
If you are a hearing aid user, who experiences recurring ear infections, contact Pure Sound Hearing for a consultation. We offer hearing aid cleanings, replacement parts, and hearing aids.  There are a number of factors that need to be considered when getting your hearing tested. Do you or a family member suspect that you have trouble with your hearing? Or do you notice further hearing loss after receiving a hearing test?
Your age and work environment are also important factors to consider. You should schedule an annual hearing test if:
If you are noticing any additional loss before your annual hearing assessment, contact your hearing healthcare provider to schedule an appointment as soon as possible. The Difference between a Hearing Test and a Hearing Screening A hearing test is provided when you, a loved one, or a healthcare provider think that you may have hearing loss because you’ve been having the common symptoms. A hearing test is conducted by having the patient sit in a sound-proof booth while getting their existing hearing levels measured and recorded on an audiogram. This is known as a comprehensive hearing exam. A hearing screening is provided when you don’t show signs or symptoms of hearing loss. A screening takes less time and is simpler than a test. If you are frequently exposed to loud noises on the job, you can participate in a screening program. What to do if Your Hearing Loss is Confirmed If you have already been told that you have hearing loss through a previous test, you need to be retested regularly by your hearing care provider. You should make observations about your hearing health with a hearing journal, in case you notice any changes. Hearing loss happens slowly, so you may not immediately notice a difference. Get a Checkup for Your Hearing Aids It’s important to understand that wearing hearing aids means that you are going to need to get them adjusted/reprogrammed, especially if they’re a new pair of hearing aids that you’re trying out. Your hearing loss may decline from moderate to severe, which makes the initial programming for your devices ineffectual for your latest degree of loss. The average lifespan of hearing aids is three to seven years. This depends on how often you use streaming features, keep up with daily and professional cleanings/maintenance, and the amount of exposure to cold, heat, and moisture. If you suspect that you have hearing loss, get a complimentary hearing test and consultation from Pure Sound Hearing. We have offices located in Elizabethtown, Lititz, and Strasburg.  Have you noticed after a few months, or maybe a year since you started using your hearing aids that they don’t work as well as they did after you fully adapted to them? Maybe sounds were pretty clear in most situations, but that might not be the case anymore.
We’ll go over some of the most common reasons why your hearing aids are beginning to lose their high performance and quality of sound. 1. Earwax Build-up Your hearing aids may be working fine, and it may actually be your ears that are the problem. Impacted earwax that builds up can block the ear canals, making it harder to hear. If your hearing aids make a whistling sound, that can be another clue that there’s too much earwax build-up. A professional ear cleaning can be performed, or you can carefully remove it on your own. 2. There’s a Problem with the Batteries or the Charger Digital hearing aids are intricate devices. Just like any piece of electronic technology, they need battery power. There are rechargeable batteries and disposable batteries available for hearing aids. One of the most common issues with chargers is that they may not come in direct contact with the charging device. As a result, the hearing aids may not be charged at all, they will die off earlier than expected, or they will only work intermittently. This is common when the hearing aids are 3-4 years old. If you plan to purchase hearing aids, think about getting contactless rechargeable devices that function based on induction. The latest generation of rechargeable hearing aids does not have electrodes but uses induction to charge the battery. If you’re experiencing problems with your hearing aids, contact us at Pure Sound Hearing. Our hearing instrument specialists will help you with a solution. 3. Blockage in the Receiver Path Sounds that are harnessed by the hearing aids will travel through the thin tubes (behind-the-ear model) or a wire (receiver-in-ear model) to the ear canal. At the end of the wire, there’s a receiver made of a silicon dome or a customized earmold. Each of them can be obstructed with earwax. The result is weak or no output. The BTE models can be fixed by detaching the thin tube and checking if the hearing aids can still make any sound. If it did, there’s a good chance that the thin tube just needs to be cleaned or replaced. Look closely and check for any earwax that is stuck in the thin tube or tip of the receiver by the wax guard. Use cleaning wipes or a soft cloth to wipe off the tube or replace the wax guards. Contact or stop by one of our Pure Sound Hearing offices for help, if necessary. 4. Blocked Microphones Every hearing aid features tiny grooves where sounds reach the microphones. This slot could be compacted with dirt and debris. The small cleaning brush that you’ll receive with your hearing aids should be used to sweep over the outer part of the microphones at least once a week, or more often if you produce a lot of earwax so that the entryway for the sound is unobstructed. Sound will not be able to travel through the hearing aids if they aren’t properly cleaned. A deep cleaning done by a professional should take place every six months, or less, depending on how dirty your hearing aids get. The microphones should be cleaned daily or weekly by the hearing aid user. 5. Your Hearing has Worsened Hearing naturally deteriorates as we age. Antibiotics, cancer treatments (particularly chemotherapy), gout, and high blood pressure can speed up and create a weakened auditory system. You should get your hearing tested annually, especially if you are a hearing aid user. Monitor any gradual or sudden changes. Keep a hearing journal if necessary. If your hearing aids worked fine, but then you noticed over 12-18 months that they no longer sound as clear as before, you may need a hearing re-test. Your hearing instrument specialist should reprogram or re-adjust the hearing aids according to your new test results. 6. Technology Malfunction Like all electronics, hearing aids may unexpectedly malfunction. Some common problems include:
Malfunctions in hearing aids usually only occur in one hearing aid. Luckily, the majority of hearing aid providers give patients a long-term warranty on the devices. Get in touch with us at Pure Sound Hearing for troubleshooting or any other repairable problems. 7. Moisture Build-up in the Tubes If you produce a lot of sweat, your hearing aid tubes probably tend to get obstructed with condensation. You can usually see the moisture build-up in the tubes. Based on how much condensation builds up in the tubes, there are multiple solutions. You can place the moistened hearing aids in a special dryer or dehumidifier case overnight. They should be dried out by the next morning. If you sweat profusely and your hearing aids need to constantly be dried throughout the day, get in touch with one of our hearing aid providers at Pure Sound. You may need to get the earmold re-sized or re-shaped. A larger vent size (may acoustically) might be better for air circulation in the ear canal, decreasing moisture build-up. If you need help with your hearing aids, contact us at Pure Sound Hearing to schedule an appointment.  Smartphones can remotely control hearing aid features - such as volume - or help you find your hearing aids if they are misplaced, through apps.
If you are in the process of looking for a new phone that’s compatible with your hearing aids, here are some things to take into consideration:
Just like smartphones, hearing aid technology becomes increasingly innovative each year, so it’s important to ask your hearing aid provider about a suitable solution that will work with your smartphone. They can also help you connect the hearing aids to your smartphone. All Smartphones are Compatible with Hearing Aids Smartphones are currently used by the vast majority of cell phone owners. There are constantly new models and features that are readily available for the general population, and the FCC regulates them in order to make sure they are hearing aid compatible (HAC). Smartphones used by People with Mild to Moderate Hearing Loss Acoustic coupling is a hearing aid feature that allows users to speak over their phones like normal, while the microphone on the hearing aid automatically picks up the sound. Many people with mild to moderate hearing loss benefit from this feature. It is important to note there’s a chance that background noise can get picked up by the hearing aids’ microphones. When shopping for a smartphone, look for the M rating. This signifies whether the phone is compatible with hearing aids. The M scale goes from 1 to 4 - 4 illustrates the highest compatibility level. A higher rating suggests that there will be less background and feedback noise, but some unwanted noise may still be heard. The most common rating is M3. Every iPhone that is currently on the market is rated through this category. Smartphones used by People with Severe Hearing Loss If you experience severe hearing loss - or if you often use your smartphone and want a clearer signal - switch on the hearing aid’s telecoil (t-coil). T-coils transfer sounds to the hearing aid’s processor without using the microphone. The t-coil may automatically switch on, or it may need to be manually switched to telecoil or T mode. Talk to your hearing instrument specialist if you have more questions about this. When you are looking for and testing out different phones, keep this information in mind. Pay attention to the T grade for hearing aid compatibility if you plan on using the telecoil feature. The T rating is also on a scale from one to four - one being the worst, and four being the best. T4 is used in most modern smartphones. If you want to direct sound through Bluetooth®, you need to make sure your hearing aid is compatible with your specific smartphone. Some hearing aids are only compatible with Android® phones, and others are only compatible with iPhones®. Additional Features Another important feature to consider with your smartphone is volume control. A control for the ringer volume is available so that you don’t miss a call. Choosing your own ringtone, one that you can hear better than others, is also something to consider. You also have the option of having a vibration or flashing lights on your phone when someone calls. If you prefer texting to communicate with others, you’ll probably want a phone package that has unlimited texting with a keyboard that’s easy to use. If you are also looking for a new pair of hearing aids, contact us at Pure Sound Hearing for a complimentary consultation with one of our providers. They will give advice on the smartphone that would work best for your hearing aids.  Why are my Hearing Aids making a Static Noise?
Hearing aids can be useful to the user, as long as they are functioning properly. Daily cleanings that are done at home or professionally, along with proper maintenance are crucial in getting the most out of your hearing aids. If you, or others around you, start to hear static noise emanating from your hearing aids, it’s time to schedule an appointment with your hearing instrument specialist. Hearing aids will digitally reproduce or amplify sound, but in some cases, static noises are created, and others can hear them. This can make you feel uncomfortable while wearing your hearing aids. What is Static Noise? Frequencies of electromagnetic or thermal sound make up static noise, and sometimes that noise is recognized by hearing aids. If you hear this noise, it doesn’t always mean that your hearing aids need to be repaired. It might indicate that they are harnessing external noises in specific frequencies. Most homes have appliances - such as radios and Wi-Fi routers - that can generate static noise. If the static noise persists, even if you go into another room or leave your home, you may want to take a closer inspection. Battery Lifespan The batteries are one of the simplest things to check to pinpoint the source of static noise. Make sure to clear out the battery compartment in your hearing aids of dust, and switch out the old batteries with fresh ones. Protection from Moisture Just like any electronic, hearing aids should be shielded from anything that can cause dampness. Be cautious if you are near any body of water, get caught in the rain, closely pass by a waterfall, or tend to sweat profusely when outdoors or during a work-out. Static noise can occur if any moisture gets into your hearing aid. If they do become moist, remove the batteries if the devices use disposable batteries and let them dry out for a few hours or overnight. You may purchase a hearing aid dry kit to place them in. Or you can even submerge them in a container of dry, uncooked rice or desiccant packs. Brushing up Against Clothing If you wear a hat or scarf over your ears, the fabrics can meddle with the sound waves or possibly press up against your hearing aids. This can also cause feedback noise. Try to readjust or remove your hat or scarf and notice whether this resolves the issue. Are Sounds Too High? Did you forget to adjust your hearing aid’s volume when you went from a busy environment to a quiet and calmer one? If you frequently need to change the volume on your hearing aids, visit your hearing instrument specialist for an adjustment. Impacted Earwax If there’s too much earwax that is impacted inside your ears, this can tamper with your hearing aids and create static noise, or any undesirable noise. Your ears should be gently cleaned with a warm, wet cloth while bathing or showering. You should clean your hearing aids each day by using a soft cloth or a cleaning brush/loop and get a thorough cleaning from a professional every six months or less. Noises from Your Environment Maybe your hearing aids are fine, and the noises that you hear are coming from your environment. Ask others around you if they can also hear static noises. Normal sounds that come from a refrigerator humming or a fluorescent light may be producing static noise. Is there a Problem with Your Hearing Aids? The hearing aid itself may have an issue. Regular check-ups for your hearing health and hearing aid devices should be scheduled. Repairs can be made to your hearing aids in your provider’s office or they can be sent to the manufacturer, but if the problem persists, you may need new hearing aids altogether. If you’ve ruled out the common and easy-to-fix problems, and need professional assistance, please contact us at Pure Sound Hearing.  Batteries are the life force behind hearing aids, and they aren’t usually discussed in depth. For any hearing aid user, batteries can hinder the use of their devices due to the cost of replacing them.
You can decide to replenish your batteries on a schedule or pick up a pack whenever you need them. Your hearing aids should alert you with a series of beeps, or a message sent through your phone when your battery starts running low. Research conducted by the Aural Rehabilitation Lab at the University of Connecticut teamed up with the battery industry to find out what hearing aid users do when their batteries are depleted. A qualitative study was used to learn straight from the hearing aid users. One-on-one interviews allowed researchers to refer to hearing aid users as the experts on this topic. Common trends based on responses from people with hearing loss were reviewed and established. Fourteen adult hearing aid users were interviewed about their experiences with hearing aid batteries and how they deal with switching out their batteries. Two trends that were revealed included problems that arose when changing batteries and techniques used to change batteries. Based on what participants said, each topic was examined deeper. The Problem with Battery Changes The participants in this study discussed their concerns about where it was appropriate to change their batteries, the sensory challenges that they faced, and the urgency for more information when it comes to batteries. Here’s a list of some of these challenges:
Waiting for the battery to completely deplete itself allowed participants to get the longest life possible out of them. An extensive life was crucial to participants because they deemed them more cost-effective. Strategies to Keep Hearing Aids Functioning with Batteries Here’s a list of strategies for keeping hearing aids functioning:
At Pure Sound, we offer not only discount batteries, but also discount hearing aids. If you are interested in a free hearing test and a free hearing aid trial, please contact us to schedule an appointment.  If you were told that you need hearing aids, here are some questions to ask your hearing instrument specialist before purchasing:
Contact us at Pure Sound Hearing for a complimentary hearing test and consultation. If you have any additional questions, please let us know.  Did you know that the average healthy human ear can recognize frequencies ranging from 20 to 20,000 Hertz (Hz)? It can also tell the difference between sounds that are familiar and sounds that are new, which can warn you of potential danger and help you be more aware of your surroundings. This is an important sense to have when you’re out camping, hiking, or hunting. The ability to hear rustling bushes and trees, the sound of a twig snapping, or rushing waters isn’t just pleasant - it can be life-saving.
1. Protect Yourself by Being Aware of Your Surroundings Experienced hikers will inform you that you should be alert and on guard if the forest you walk through is too quiet. If birds and other animals are silent, it’s because they know a predator is in the area. Depending on where you live, keep an eye out for bears or mountain lions. DO NOT keep food in a space where you’ll be sleeping and hanging around. The large animals will initially look for that food. Being able to hear unusual noises in your environment can signal that there’s an animal in the bushes nearby. You will normally hear animals before you see them, or don’t see them at all. A sharp sense of hearing will act as a harbinger to keep you prepared for any dangerous encounters. 2. Camping and Hearing Aid Usage If you’re a new or long-time hearing aid user, you may be unsure about the best way to camp or backpack with your devices. Here are some tips to keep your hearing aids working while enjoying the great outdoors: Carry extra batteries or a portable charger Be prepared when traveling anywhere. Purchase extra batteries in case you need them, and store them in a cool, dry place when they are not being used. If you have rechargeable hearing aids, bring a portable charger so that you can recharge them without an electrical outlet. Keep your hearing aids dry Pack a cleaning cloth, dehumidifier, and a hat or headband to cover your ears if the weather is cold, wet, or windy. A Ziplock bag can be used to store these items. Keep your hearing aids cool Extreme temperatures, especially heat, can damage the wiring and other technology in your hearing aids. Remove them if you plan on sitting close to a smoldering campfire, do not place them in direct sunlight, and do not leave them in a hot car. Get your hearing aids checked Before going off on your outdoor adventure, make an appointment with your hearing aid provider. Inform them that you will be camping and might need your hearing aids re-programmed to hear the different environments you’ll be in. Make friends and family aware of your trip Whenever you plan to go into a secluded area, whether it’s alone or with at least one other person, always tell someone you know where you are going and when they should expect you to return. Do not wander away alone for any reason, especially if it’s dark out. 3. Hearing Safety and Hunting Outdoors When gun safety is discussed, protecting your hearing is a topic that doesn’t get covered. In addition to safe gun use and storage, it’s important to protect your ears from the deafening noise of gunshots. The sound from a single shot can cause permanent damage to your hearing. Since hunters need to be aware of their surroundings and hear their prey, choose hearing protection that muffles sounds, but also allows softer sounds in a forest environment to be heard. Custom earplugs are an excellent option. Talk to a hearing aid provider about getting a customized fitting for earplugs. If you, or a loved one, wear hearing aids and plan on spending an extensive amount of time outdoors, contact us at Pure Sound Hearing for a hearing aid tune-up, professional cleaning, or supplies.  Ear infections may occur in your middle ear - the area behind your eardrum - if there’s fluid build-up. That build-up can lead to bacterial and/or viral infections. Ear infections can be caused by allergies, colds, and the flu. Ear infections can also occur in the outer ear or ear canal if it comes in contact with bacteria or contaminated water. Some hearing aids are designed to seal off the ear canal. As a result, an ear infection can linger if they are frequently worn without proper regular cleanings.
Hearing aids are supposed to be worn all day, from the moment when you wake up to the moment when you get ready to sleep unless you take a shower/bath, or go into a body of water. To help prevent ear infections, it’s important to keep up with daily hearing aid cleanings at home and schedule professional cleanings every six months or less. If there's too much debris or earwax impacting the function of the devices, you should visit your hearing instrument specialist sooner. Some signs of an ear infection are pain and swelling. Hearing aids are custom-fit, or a standard dome size is recommended for each user, so if there’s pain and swelling it indicates that the devices were not correctly fit. The improper fitting will also affect the sound quality that you hear when wearing them. What Should You Do if You Have an Ear Infection from Wearing Hearing Aids?
If you or a loved one need a professional cleaning for your hearing aids or a re-fitting for a more suitable fit, contact us at Pure Sound Hearing to schedule an appointment.  We’re winding down towards the end of summer, and the heatwave has felt relentless. In addition to the heat, humidity and moisture can warp the wiring and affect the performance of your hearing aids. Follow these simple tips to make sure you are getting the most out of your hearing aids.
7 Tips to Enhance the Efficiency of Your Hearing Aids
If you, or a loved one, are experiencing hearing loss or any problems with hearing aids, please contact us at Pure Sound Hearing to schedule an appointment.  Sometimes having hearing loss while trying to watch a movie in theaters or at a drive-thru can be challenging. Will you be able to hear and follow along with the movie? Will it be worth your time and money?
Luckily for you, most movie theaters in the U.S. are required to provide closed captioning and audio descriptions. These laws were passed in 2018 through the Americans with Disabilities Act. This makes it easier for anyone with hearing loss to enjoy the movies. Be Sure to Wear Your Hearing Aids Most hearing aid users won’t need additional help. Those with mild-to-moderate hearing loss are still able to hear well in movie theaters when donning their hearing aids. Speech sounds tend to be clearer in movie theaters than watching TV or movies from home. This is mainly due to the volume level, sound system quality, and placement of the speakers. If you are concerned that the film will be played too loudly for you, slightly adjust the volume on your hearing aids to an appropriate level. Today’s hearing aids can be programmed to suppress loud noises so that your hearing health remains protected. Accessibility services at local theaters should be researched if you have severe hearing loss or are deaf. Get there early so that you can request accommodations and have time to set up the equipment. If things did not go as planned, you can ask for a refund. Here are some possible options that may be offered: Movie Captions Opened captioning - text will appear onscreen during the movie so that everyone in the audience can see it. Closed captioning - these captions are private and transmitted through a personal device. It’s rare to see open captions for a general audience. Some theaters have the option of “open caption” viewings for those who need/prefer to watch a movie with subtitles/captions, or if there’s a large group that requested a special screening. There are also captions for foreign films. With closed captions, it is required that you ask for a device that displays the captions at your seat. The device, technology, and availability will be different for each movie theater chain, so you’ll want to do some research before heading to the theater. If necessary, call or email the company. Accessibility Options from 4 Major Theater Chains Regal Theaters Regal had a plethora of information. They feature an accessibility services page, along with a list of every theater in each state and the accessibility options that are available in each local theater. Regal offers open captions through Sony Access eyeglasses. It allows audiences to see captions in their direct line of sight. Users can wear these over their regular eyeglasses. Prior to your visit, it is recommended that you contact your local theater to make sure that you will be accommodated as necessary. The movie descriptions should read “accessibility devices available.” AMC Theaters Last year, AMC announced they would be adding more showings that featured open captions. This is significant because AMC is the largest movie chain in the world. Other accessibility options from AMC include:
Landmark Theaters The accessibility page for Landmark lists which theaters have assistive listening technology and what they use. It’s different for each theater, but typically includes:
Marcus Theatres This large chain provides assistive technology that is similar to Landmark. Assistive Listening If your local theater does not provide the latest captioning technology, they may have assistive listening devices (ALD) like telecoils (which require your hearing aids to be paired with them), assistive listening systems (ALS) which are system-wide technology used in public spaces like a theater, airport, or lecture hall. Three types of ALS recognized by the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) include:
Every ALS must be an option for hearing aid users' access, whether they have telecoils or not. It’s easy to connect to a hearing loop if your hearing aids feature telecoils. Most people prefer using hearing loops out of the three types of ALS. If you are having problems hearing in theaters and need help with your hearing aids, contact us at Pure Sound Hearing for a consultation.  School is almost back in session. Here are three tips to help make learning easier if you have hearing loss.
If you, or a loved one, are experiencing difficulty with your hearing, please contact us at Pure Sound Hearing for a complimentary hearing test and consultation.  In the U.S. there have been laws established to protect everyone with hearing loss. These days they need to be adapted for technology that is constantly evolving. July 26th is the 32nd anniversary of the supreme law granting protections to people with a hearing impairment. It is called the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA). Here are the three titles of the ADA:
Even if you are a hearing aid or cochlear implant user, and those devices can help your hearing limitations, you still have a legal disability status under the ADA. This indicates that under the law, you are guaranteed certain protections and accommodations. Changes in technology are constantly evolving and services are readily available online. As a result, the definition of discrimination has also changed. One example was when the Zoom video chat service charged more money for closed-captioning during video calls. In December of 2020, two individuals who were hearing impaired sued the company. They cited ADA violations and California and New York laws. In March of 2021, Zoom allowed users to sign up for free live captioning (this feature can only be accessed by the host of the meeting). This feature is now free for all users. Hearing Loss Accessibility in the Internet Age The ADA was originally written when the internet was still very new. Judges have provided different rulings on whether “places of public accommodation” include websites and apps, which do not have a physical location. The U.S. Department of Justice stated that it does, but there have not been any regulations issued. Website accessibility guidelines have stated that anyone with vision impairment should be able to see and read a website, and the tools used by people with disabilities should be easily integrated. Closed captions and transcriptions should be available for all prerecorded audio and video. This is not a guarantee, as users of YouTube videos have been made aware of it. Telephone Access for Hearing Loss The law is more straightforward when it comes to telephone systems, which must be available for anyone with hearing loss and speech problems. The options are captioned telephones and web-based captioning services. The 1988 Hearing Aid Compatibility Act orders that every telephone and smartphone must be compatible with hearing aids. The 21st Century Communications and Video Accessibility Act (CVAA), which was enacted in 2010, required text messaging, email, instant messaging, and video calls to be accessible for those with disabilities. Free live captioning on private platforms like Zoom is now available. Additional Rights The U.S. Federal Communications Commission ordered in 2012 that all TV programs with closed captions must be published online. For all airlines, and foreign airlines that are flying to the U.S., the Air Carriers Access Act (ACAA) requires hearing loss accommodations, such as captioning on airport televisions. The ADA requires courtrooms, hospitals, and schools to have sign language interpreters available when necessary. Accessibility in Public Spaces Theaters that have fixed seating for at least 50 people must provide assistive hearing services for audience members who have hearing loss. Assistive listening systems for people with hearing loss must be provided by museums. This does not include sign language interpreters or closed captioning, but some include this as an option for Deaf patrons. Most times, these services are free or a small fee is charged. Other spaces that must provide assistive hearing systems for anyone with hearing loss include hospitals, hotels, concert/lecture halls, convention centers, courtrooms, stadiums, and nursing homes. Facilities that have hearing loops can connect with hearing aids that feature telecoils (or t-coils). Employment Discrimination and Hearing Loss Job seekers and employees are protected by the ADA and Equal Employment Opportunity Commission. If there are at least 15 employees at your place of employment, you do not have to report your hearing loss and your employer cannot ask you questions to determine whether you have a disability. The employer is allowed to ask specific questions about your ability to perform basic job functions, like how good your communication skills are, whether you can perform in a fast-paced noisy environment, or can meet legally required standards in safety. If your hearing loss is obvious or you report it, the person who decides whether to hire you can ask if you need accommodations to perform the job. Your Employer must provide you with Accommodations if You Have a Hearing Loss Your employer must provide reasonable accommodations, which means it should not be too difficult or expensive to make adjustments. Some accommodations may include a sign language interpreter during meetings or assistive listening devices. Discuss these things with your employer, and be prepared to give more information about your conditions and needs from your healthcare provider(s). If you think there’s been a violation of your rights, make a complaint through the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC) within 180 days of the incident. A lawsuit may be filed in federal court after you receive a “right to sue” letter from the EEOC. If you or a loved one are experiencing hearing loss, contact us at Pure Sound Hearing for a complimentary hearing test and consultation.  Rexton's MyCore Sterling 8C ITE/ITC with custom fit molding. Hearing loss is as unique as the shape of a person’s ears. Being able to hear is important. Whether you can manage with a standard hearing aid or require a customized earmold, wearing hearing aids that properly fit can make a huge difference in how you absorb your environment.
Key Facts about Hearing Aid Earmolds The hearing aid receiver is the part of the device that rests inside the ear canals. They are available in two different styles: domes or earmolds. Hearing aid domes resemble a small cone shape. They come in standard sizes, rather than customized sizes. Hearing aid users will be provided with the domes that best fit their ear canals. If it feels uncomfortable, you may try a different size. The domes feature large openings that will harness natural sounds and provide ventilation. Earmolds are comprised of plastic or silicone. They are custom-fit in order to rest close and comfortably in the ear canal. There are usually small air vents featured on them. Why are Earmolds used with Hearing Aids? If you find it difficult to hear low, most, or all frequencies (this is called flat hearing loss), an earmold can make sounds easier and more pleasant to hear because they rest securely in the ear. A secure and comfortable fit will stop amplified sound from seeping out of the ear canal and cause a feedback noise - the loud whistling noise that occurs as a result of sounds that leak and become re-amplified. Individuals with severe to profound hearing loss typically use earmolds. Earmolds are best for any range of hearing loss. Any long-time hearing aid user might prefer wearing an earmold style, whereas new hearing aid users tend to choose hearing aid domes because they feel more comfortable, have less occlusion, and are easier to change out. Everyone is different. Have a discussion with your hearing instrument specialist so that they can make custom earmolds or provide standard domes for your hearing aids. Those with high-frequency hearing loss (who have trouble hearing high-pitched sounds like children’s voices) usually wear dome-style hearing aids. Proper Hearing Aid Fit As mentioned earlier, ear shapes are unique, therefore it’s important to have a professional hearing instrument specialist customize an earmold in order to securely fit your individual ear shape. They need to be comfortable and tight enough to stop sounds from leaking out and causing feedback noise, but not too tight to the point where it feels painful to wear. Customizing a hearing aid is simple. The process requires creating an impression of your ear canal and the outer ear using a soft molding composite, similar to how a dentist makes an impression of your teeth. Common Dilemmas with Earmolds Earmolds may still require additional adjustments after the impression has been made. Ears change in shape and size as you age, so a lot of earmolds are composed of soft materials that can be adjusted by your hearing instrument specialist. Repairing Problems with Earmolds Here are some typical problems that earmold users encounter:
Earmolds used as Earplugs People who don’t wear hearing aids can wear earmolds. Custom earplugs and earmolds can be used to protect your hearing health from loud noise exposure. Musicians, professional football players, and race car drivers wear earmolds that feature an acoustic chamber that obstructs most noise while letting the wearer understand speech sounds. Swimmers wear special earmolds that prevent water from entering their ears. Talk to our hearing instrument specialists if you’re interested in getting custom earmolds. Earmold Maintenance The earmold is a crucial detail of your hearing aids. Just like with standard domes, the earmold should be wiped down with professional cleaning wipes before getting ready to sleep. If you notice any debris in the openings or tubing of the earmold, properly clean them by applying the instructions that your hearing aid provider gave you. If you have questions, don’t hesitate to contact them. If you have any problems with your hearing aids, need a new pair of hearing aids, or are overdue for a hearing test, please contact us at Pure Sound Hearing.  Google introduced Android 10 in 2019, which featured Live Caption and Live Transcribe. These apps highlighted captioning, with the purpose of providing accessibility options for Android users who have hearing loss. These two apps were developed by students and researchers at Gallaudet University - the only university in the world where students live and learn using American Sign Language (ASL) and English.
Live Caption The Live Caption option is accessible on some Samsung devices - and most Pixel devices. It provides captions for any media that’s played on the device. Some have voiced complaints that it does not have built-in auto-captioning. As a result, videos on social media are less accessible. Live Transcribe Live Transcribe is a popular app that became available in 2019. It utilizes machine learning tools to give users captions for spoken words that are gathered by the phone’s microphone. Live Transcribe also lets users pause, save, and search for old transcriptions. It also lets the user transcribe speech to other languages. This was a personal investment by several employees at Google. At least one of the employees is hard of hearing. Sound Amplifier Sound Amplifier is an app that can be found through the Google Play store. It’s pre-installed in Pixel and some Android devices like Samsung. It harnesses sound through the microphone on your phone and plays optimized sound through headphones. You can use the app to adjust volume, fine-tune, and reduce background noise. It can also be used to enhance audio for various media like videos or podcasts. If you have different degrees of hearing loss in each ear, you can make one side louder than the other when wearing headphones or linking hearing aids to the app. Complications with Android Google lends its Android operating system to different smartphone manufacturers such as Huawei, Motorola, Samsung, and Xiaomi. Because of this, Google does not oversee which software features are used on each device. It solely depends on the manufacturer and which software they select. Google’s Pixel is the only exception. It is managed directly by Google, allowing the company to easily introduce new accessibility features on Pixel phones. Compatibility with Hearing Aids Android’s Audio Streaming for Hearing Aids protocol was issued as part of Android 10 in 2019. This audio streaming service lets hearing aids that are compatible stream audio wirelessly through Bluetooth Low Energy (BLE) through the user’s phone. It’s important to be aware that compatibility with hearing aids is not the same for every hearing aid manufacturer. There are lots of inconsistencies with software when it comes to Android phones. Be sure to bring this topic up before purchasing. If you or a loved one are noticing any hearing loss, contact us at Pure Sound Hearing. Our hearing instrument specialists will patiently guide you towards better hearing with their experience and expertise.  Be more Productive on the Job by Treating Hearing Loss
If you have hearing loss and work with other people, missing or mistaking what you heard can lead to an unproductive day. In a survey that was recorded through The Hearing Journal, workers were asked about the repercussions of untreated hearing loss and how it affected their productivity. Nearly all participants in the survey reported serious obstacles they faced while accomplishing their work before using hearing aids. Results from the Survey
These negative impacts of hearing loss should be a case for employers to offer hearing health benefits, encourage employees to seek help and treatment, and offer appropriate accommodations. Not only does it offer employees the hearing treatment that they need for their overall health and well-being, but it can also help them be more productive in the workplace. Another recent survey showed that 51% of adults have reported hearing problems. Just 11% requested treatment. The cost of treatment accounts for 85% of why they do not get treatment, 45% reported the challenges with adjusting to hearing aids, and 28% account for the stigma of wearing hearing aids. Only 12% did not demonstrate any concern. This demographic can give hearing aid providers the chance to educate and provide resources that would help make getting hearing aids easier. If you, or a loved one, are experiencing hearing loss and need hearing aids, Pure Sound Hearing offers a free hearing test and discount hearing aids. Contact us to schedule an appointment.  Auracast™ is the latest Bluetooth® connectivity platform that allows audio transmitters like TVs, laptops, smartphones, or PA systems to relay audio to all Bluetooth® devices like hearing aids or earbuds.
Telecoils (or t-coils) in hearing aids have been available for decades, and they are reliable enough to gather broadcast audio in any area that features loops with a magnetic induction system. Telecoils may not provide a steady stream of good sound quality in every situation. Loops need to be maintained on a regular basis, and a skilled hearing instrument specialist needs to properly program the telecoils. The Basics of Auracast™ Auracast™ is essentially a more powerful version of telecoils. With Auracast™ hearing aid users will be able to access audio streams securely and privately, without being confined to hearing loop cables. Audio will be streamed via a secure Wi-Fi network, without relying on electromagnetism. If you are traveling through an airport, crucial flight/gate changes and other announcements will be streamed directly to your hearing aids. If you attend a live lecture or play, an Auracast™ transmitter will give you an alert on your smartphone to let you know that audio streaming can be accessed. The Auracast Assistant™ will be used to locate and select the sound stream and transmit it to your hearing aids or, other Bluetooth®-connected devices. The only earlier options for these situations were t-coils, FM transmitters, or infrared receivers. Auracast™ may be the future of assistive listening systems. The ability to hear and comprehend speech in different settings is an ongoing struggle for people with any range of hearing loss. New and quality technology is beneficial for everyone, including improvement in communication for those with hearing loss. Giving more options to people with a wide range of hearing loss is important. The Telecoils are Still Beneficial While the Auracast™ has many perks, there’s one significant flaw: it will only work if you have both a Bluetooth®-compatible hearing aid and the Auracast-enabled transmitter (a smartphone, computer, or tablet). Many modern hearing aids feature Bluetooth® audio streaming technology. Most of the hearing aids that do not have Bluetooth® streaming are smaller devices. For example, in-the-ear (ITE), completely-in-the-canal (CIC), and in-the-canal (ITC) hearing aids drain the batteries faster when Bluetooth® streaming is utilized. Basic hearing aids are less likely to feature Bluetooth®. Many behind-the-ear (BTE), receiver-in-the-ear (RIC), and custom-designed hearing aids can feature a telecoil. Venues around the U.S. are required to have assistive listening systems, so a telecoil is useful for these areas. Even if Auracast™ functions well, it may take at least 10 years until the vast majority of hearing aid users can use it to their advantage. Telecoils are still a great solution to hear speakers or in noisy environments that use a loop system. So if you are shopping around for hearing aids, request a pair with telecoils if possible, and/or when your hearing instrument specialist recommends them. Bluetooth® Evolution Bluetooth® technology will grow and change in ways that will improve communication in many different types of settings and situations. Just about all hearing aids in the future will have streaming features. Auracast™ is still a major innovation that can expand the way hearing aids, earbuds, and speakers audibly adapt to their environments. If you or a loved one are experiencing hearing loss, contact us at Pure Sound Hearing for a complimentary hearing test and consultation.  Some people with hearing loss are still irritated by loud noises. In fact, some sounds are more annoying and even painful than before they started experiencing hearing loss. The term for this is auditory recruitment or auditory distortion.
Why are certain Noises too Loud? When the delicate, auditory hair cells (cilia) deteriorate due to aging or sensorineural hearing loss, they can’t respond to sound waves in the same way they used to. This is when hearing loss occurs. Cells do not worsen evenly. Some hair cells stay in good condition, while others are over-exposed to sounds and the healthy cells immediately need to replace the dying cells. This can lead to sounds that make people feel distressed. Generally, what happens is a person who cannot hear clearly does not respond to a person who is trying to speak with them at a normal or low volume. In turn, the speaker will talk much louder and the person with hearing loss will suddenly hear them and react in pain. Hyperacusis is similar. This is when there is an intensity in someone’s sensitivity to sound. The way it's different from auditory recruitment is that hyperacusis can feel painful, but is not related to hearing loss. For example, a child who has autism and auditory processing disorder may experience sensitivity to specific sounds. Treatment Options Auditory recruitment can be treated by wearing high-quality hearing aids. A hearing instrument specialist can program the hearing aids to compress sounds for the exact range of noises that irritate you. Hearing amplifiers and cheap hearing aid models won’t be useful because they do not feature adjustable compression bands, which can negatively impact your overall hearing health. It’s crucial to have an experienced hearing instrument specialist who can recognize recruitment and program your hearing aids accordingly. Recruitment, just like hearing loss, can gradually occur over a long period of time. Pay attention to whether you notice sensitivity to sound after wearing hearing aids. Tinnitus retraining therapy can give relief to those who suffer from it. Discuss this with your hearing instrument specialist. Contact us at Pure Sound Hearing for a complimentary hearing test and consultation with one of our hearing instrument specialists.  As we’ve mentioned before, adapting to hearing aids takes time. Wearing your hearing aids every day, for as long as you can, will help you adjust to them and the sounds that you've missed out on. Eventually, there may be moments when you forget that you’re even wearing hearing aids.
Learn as much as possible about your hearing aids from your hearing instrument specialist. They are professionals when it comes to the hearing aid’s technology and understanding how the devices work. With your hearing instrument specialist present, practice placing your hearing aids in and removing them. They can give you tips on how to do it safely so that you don’t snap the receiver’s wires. Cleaning tips, replacing the batteries, and identifying the left hearing aid from the right hearing aid will be crucial so that you can get the most out of your hearing aids. Ask how to test them in different environments where you have a difficult time hearing. Some hearing aids automatically adjust the volume and settings, while others require manual adjustments that can be made through your smartphone. Work with your hearing instrument specialist until you are satisfied with them. They will be available when you need help. Common Problems that Arise Do the hearing aids feel uncomfortable? Wearing a new pair of hearing aids can feel like breaking in a new pair of shoes. They may initially feel too tight and uncomfortable. Talk to your hearing instrument specialist to find out how often you should wear your hearing aids each day during your adjustment period. Most would say to wear them from the moment you wake up, until the moment when you are getting ready for bed. But it might depend on your comfort level. Are you hearing feedback noises? Loud whistling sounds can come from your hearing aids if they don’t fit properly, or if it’s obstructed by earwax or fluid. Does your voice sound too loud? The occlusion effect is the blocked-up feeling you hear that makes your voice sound louder. This can seem startling to new hearing aid users. A correction may need to be made by your hearing instrument specialist. Most people get used to the sound as they adapt. Are background noises too loud or distracting? If you are hearing background noises or other people’s conversations, instead of the individuals who you are speaking with, your hearing aids will need additional adjustments. Is there a buzzing sound when using your smartphone? Hearing aid users may notice interferences from frequencies that are caused by smartphones or cellphones. There are more improvements in digital hearing aids and smartphones, so these problems do not occur as often as they used to. If you are experiencing any problems with your hearing aids and need an adjustment, repair, or new hearing aids, contact us at Pure Sound Hearing for a complimentary consultation. Are Your Hearing Aids Constantly Falling Out? Here are 6 Tips to Keep Them Securely in Your Ears.7/1/2022  Hearing aids are amazing pieces of technology that help you hear better and communicate with people easier. One of the downsides is that they sometimes fall out of your ears. This can create some anxiety, especially if you are outside of your home. Here’s some advice on how to keep your hearing aids from falling out.
6 Tips to Keep Your Hearing Aids Fitting Securely in Your Ears 1. Test whether your hearing aids tend to fall out during certain activities. Do you notice that your hearing aids usually fall out of your ears during a certain time of day? Maybe it’s when you’re eating, speaking, or working out - sweat from your ears can loosen hearing aids and cause them to fall out. This indicates that your hearing aids are poorly fit, and you’ll either need a different size hearing aid dome or a customized earmold. If you have other dome sizes, try those out before seeking help from your hearing aid provider. If you need different hearing aid domes or would like a customized earmold, get in touch with us at Pure Sound Hearing. 2. Examine the inserts that you are placing in your ears. If your hearing aids keep falling out of your ears, it may be due to the size of the removable foam or silicone earpiece. If the earpiece is too big, it will be challenging to insert them into your ear canals and they’ll slide out. If the earpiece is too small, rapidly moving your head or even leaning forward will cause it to fall out. The foam tips should be switched out every 2-3 weeks; silicon tips should be replaced every 4-6 months. If they have not been replaced for a long time, this might be the problem. If the ear molds were customized to fit your ears, you may need to be re-fit. As you age, the size of your ears changes so it’s not an unusual request. 3. Pay attention to the way you insert your hearing aids. In some instances, hearing aids may loosen from your ears because you are not inserting them properly. Be sure to insert hearing aids properly and in the correct ears for customized-fit devices. The hearing aid should fit evenly, and right up against the ear canals, or against the outer ear lobe if the hearing aids are larger. If they don’t slide in comfortably, use a mirror to look and check to make sure they are going in properly. Read through the owner’s manual, or ask your hearing instrument specialist for advice. 4. Clear out earwax. If you don’t find any problems with your hearing aids, maybe earwax build-up is causing your hearing aids to fall out. Earwax build-up can push your hearing aids out of your ears. Safely clean your ears. Do NOT use Q-Tips or anything small that can be inserted into the ear. The irrigation and suction methods or a curette tool may be used by a professional to clean your ears out. With the irrigation method, a syringe containing warm water is held to your ear and the water flows behind the obstruction and pushes it out of the ear. The suction method uses a suction machine to clear the wax from the ears. A curette tool is a thin metal hook that is gently scraped in the ear canal to scoop out the earwax. 5. Use hearing aid accessories. If you have an active lifestyle, you may have a challenging time keeping your hearing aids on after exercising or engaging in a long activity. This is particularly true if you end up sweating during the exercise/activity. Try using an accessory such as a clip, headband, or strap. 6. Maybe you need new hearing aids. If you’ve had your hearing aids for more than five years, they may not fit anymore because the shape of your ears has changed. Everyone’s ears tend to become larger and stretched out as they age. The ear molds on your hearing aids should be replaced every 5-7 years. These are just some of the most common causes as to why hearing aids slip out of the ears. If none of these reasons apply to you - or you are still having difficulties after figuring out the cause of your hearing aids falling out of your ears - schedule an appointment with one of our hearing instrument specialists at Pure Sound Hearing.  Are you ever roused from your sleep by the sound of tinnitus? For 1 out of 5 adults, it’s a common problem that interferes with a restful night.
A research team from the University of Oxford hypothesized the reason for this phenomenon, which may also hold the key to improving treatment options for tinnitus. Why does Tinnitus Stir You from Your Sleep? Researchers came up with a new model for how tinnitus interferes with sleep using current evidence. When a person falls asleep, the brain obstructs noises that are occurring in the room. For example, this is how people can fall asleep to certain music or a TV that’s playing something. It’s uncertain how this occurs. It is also unknown how a person’s sleep patterns change when responding to internal experiences of pain or tinnitus. There are five stages that your brain repeatedly goes through when you sleep. Non-REM sleep falls under stages 1, 2, 3, and 4. The fifth stage is REM sleep. The stages where you do not dream make up about 75% of your total sleep time. The brain produces different kinds of wave activity that gradually disperse throughout the brain during that time. Initially, the wave activity might repress the brain signals that cause tinnitus. When the wave is less severe, tinnitus symptoms might worsen and then wake you up or interfere with a deeper rest. Tinnitus might cause the Brain to Stay Awake This can cause wakefulness in a resting brain, which can stop you from starting the dreaming stage known as REM (rapid eye movement) sleep. Night terrors, which have been connected to adults with tinnitus, also occur during this transition stage. Sleep patterns are connected to the way tinnitus develops. This information will help researchers figure out a moment when providing tinnitus treatment will be the most effective before it becomes permanent. The research will also help them find out how the quality of sleep is affected by tinnitus. This may evolve into other research about whether better rest can help repair irregular activity in the brain that is connected to tinnitus. Tinnitus and Poor Rest Those with tinnitus tend to be light sleepers. In a survey of over 14,000 Japanese residents between the ages of 45 and 79, roaring tinnitus nearly tripled the risk of insomnia. Even a mild case of tinnitus made it difficult to fall asleep, stay asleep, or feel rested. Sleep apnea was another condition connected with tinnitus. It can cause snoring, sleepiness during the daytime, high blood pressure, stroke, and other health issues. Difficulties with sleep are different for each age group. Night terrors, which are common in young boys, are connected to adults (age 20-44) with tinnitus. Poor rest can lead to difficulty in managing tinnitus symptoms or any other chronic conditions. Women with tinnitus and bad rest are more likely to experience headaches, neck pain, or feelings of anxiousness, whereas men are more likely to experience depression. Even though there’s no cure for tinnitus, counseling and different therapies - including sound therapy - can reduce the severity of the problem and make sleeping easier. Tips for Better Rest First of all, stop looking at your phone, computer, and TV screens. The blue light from your devices causes your brain to remain active. Try listening to restful music for two hours. It’s important to only listen for two hours - after that period of time, the white noise may over-stimulate the brain. This technique was tested on 30 patients with tinnitus by an audiology and speech specialist at Gaziantep University in Turkey. Some patients claimed they stopped noticing their tinnitus, and others heard quieter tinnitus noises after six months. These patients’ symptoms of depression also felt eased. The objective was to help patients “fall asleep with less exposure to the disturbing effects of tinnitus”, instead of stopping them from waking up. On average the length of the first non-REM sleep cycle is 70 to 100 minutes, therefore it should only take about two hours to cover up your tinnitus. If these techniques did not prove to be effective, try hearing aids. Hearing aids feature a tinnitus masking technology, so the symptoms won’t be noticeable as long as you are wearing them. Contact us at Pure Sound Hearing for a hearing test and consultation from one of our providers. |
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