 Feelings of a stuffy nose combined with sneezing can raise a problem for those with hearing loss. On the worst days of your allergy season, you may feel as though you are roaming through fog. Sounds may seem muffled and your ears may be popping more frequently in order to clear out the additional pressure.
When your head moves, you might experience the feeling of fluid moving in your ears. This may induce dizziness or vertigo. Symptoms of tinnitus may occur more regularly. Generally, allergies are irritating. If you have hearing loss, they can affect how you communicate. Why is your hearing affected by seasonal allergies? Seasonal allergies may create fluid that builds up in your middle ear. As a result, you might feel pressure and sounds may be obstructed from traveling to your eardrum. This makes it more difficult for you to hear. This is known as conductive hearing loss. It is the result of “conducting” the sound from its source to where it is heard. This can almost be compared to what those with hearing loss experience when they have a head cold. It’s important to note that hearing loss that is caused by seasonal allergies is typically short-lived. Getting the right medication and treatment can diminish its impact. How to take care of your allergies
If you notice that you are still experiencing hearing loss, after your allergy season is over, please contact us at Pure Sound Hearing Aids for a free hearing test and consultation. Please be aware that Pure Sound services will only be available by appointment and for essential visits at this time. Essential visits include all appointments that require repairs, re-fittings and new hearing aid fittings. If you are having any problems with your hearing aids, or need supplies for your hearing aids, please call us before visiting one of our offices.
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 Prime Ages of Hearing Loss vs. Age-related Hearing Loss
Did you know that people between the ages of 18 and 25 are at the prime ages for human hearing? When we reach our 50s, age-related hearing loss will be a main health concern. Hearing loss begins to worsen after age 25, but it usually goes unnoticed. Presbycusis, or age-related hearing loss, is the most common form of hearing loss. It is also the third most prevalent physical condition that affects humans. Hearing loss conditions double during each decade of a person’s life. If you, or a loved one, are experiencing hearing loss, please contact us at Pure Sound Hearing Aids for a free hearing test and consultation. Pure Sound services will only be available by appointment and for essential visits at this time. Essential visits include all appointments that require repairs, re-fittings and new hearing aid fittings. If you are having any problems with your hearing aids, or need supplies for your hearing aids, please call us before visiting one of our offices.  Main Facts
Approximately 5% of the world’s population - that’s 466 million people - have a disabling form of hearing loss (432 million adults and 34 million children). It is being estimated that in 2050, more than 900 million people - that’s 1 in 10 people - will experience a disabling hearing loss. A disabling hearing loss is defined as hearing loss that is over 40 decibels (dB) in the healthier hearing ear for adults and hearing loss that is over 30 dB in the healthier hearing ear in children. Most people with disabling hearing loss live in low or middle-income countries. About one third of those aged 65 or older, have a disabling hearing loss. Most of these people live in South Asia, Asia Pacific and sub-Saharan Africa. Hearing loss vs deafness A person with hearing loss is someone who cannot hear as well as someone with normal hearing loss (that’s a hearing threshold of 25 dB or more in each ear). Hearing loss is categorized as mild, moderate, severe or profound. One or both ears can be affected, which can cause difficulty in hearing casual speech or loud sounds. Someone who is ‘hard of hearing’ has hearing loss that varies between mild to severe. Those who are hard of hearing can communicate with others by verbally speaking and may benefit from using hearing aids, other assistive listening devices and captions. Those with more severe hearing loss may benefit from cochlear implants. A person who is deaf has profound hearing loss. They have little or no hearing abilities. They use sign language or lip reading to communicate and understand people. What causes hearing loss and deafness? Hearing loss and deafness may be congenital (present at birth) or acquired. Congenital causes could lead to hearing loss that is present at or acquired right after birth. Hearing loss can be caused by genetic factors that may or may not be hereditary, or by pregnancy/birth complications. These include:
Acquired causes can lead to hearing loss at any age. These include:
A common cause of hearing loss in children is suffering from a chronic form of otitis media. What are the Impacts of hearing loss? Hearing loss impacts the practical means of communication with others. Development of spoken language is delayed in children who have hearing loss that is not addressed and treated. Hearing loss that goes unaddressed, or ear diseases like otitis media, will most likely have a negative effect on how children perform academically. These children tend to have higher rates of failure and the need for additional assistance in learning. It would be crucial to have access to the appropriate tools in order for them to have the best learning experience, but those means are not always accessible. Social and emotional repercussions Being excluded from interacting with others due to an inability to communicate can create feelings of isolation, loneliness, and frustration. This is especially true with older people who have hearing loss. Economic repercussions According to the World Health Organization, hearing loss that goes untreated can cost $750 billion in health sector costs, costs in educational support, loss in productivity, and societal costs. In most developing countries, children who have hearing loss rarely receive any education. Adults who have hearing loss are more likely to be unemployed. Among the employed, there is a greater percentage of people with hearing loss who are in the lower levels of employment in comparison to the general workforce. In order to lower the rate of unemployment for those with hearing loss, it’s important to create access to education and vocational rehabilitation services, particularly for employers. Prevention measures There has been some suggestion that half of all cases of hearing loss can be prevented through public health measures. About 60% of children under 15 years old, have hearing loss cases that were due to preventable causes. Here are most of the preventable causes of childhood hearing loss:
Easy ways to prevent hearing loss
Identify and manage hearing loss It is very important to detect hearing loss as early as possible in order to intervene. This will help to reduce the impact of hearing loss during a child’s development and education. Early detection and intervention will improve language acquisition and overall education outcomes. Children who are deaf or hard of hearing, and their family members, should have the opportunity to learn sign language. Hearing screenings that take place at schools are an effective way to detect ear diseases and hearing loss at an early age. Pure Sound Hearing Aids offers a free hearing test and consultation. Those with hearing loss can benefit from wearing hearing aids. The global production of hearing aids only fulfills less than 10% of worldwide needs. There is an overall lack of availability of services for fitting and maintaining hearing aid devices, but our hearing instrument specialists at Pure Sound are readily available for your hearing aid needs. Pure Sound services will only be available by appointment and for essential visits at this time. Essential visits include all appointments that require repairs, re-fittings and new hearing aid fittings. If you are having any problems with your hearing aids, or need supplies for your hearing aids, please call us before visiting one of our offices.  It’s true.
Classical music turns out to be more dangerous to your hearing health, than rock music. Even though classical music is not blasted at loud volumes that can shake an arena, on average, classical musicians play four to five hours each day. They are either practicing, teaching, or performing multiple times per week. The intensity of sound may be louder on the set of a rock concert, but the number of hours each week that is spent playing is much greater for a classical musician. So to all classical musicians, take this into consideration. Reduce the amount of time spent playing your instrument, or wear hearing protection. If you are a musician who is experiencing hearing loss, please contact us at Pure Sound Hearing Aids for a free hearing test and consultation. Pure Sound services will only be available by appointment and for essential visits at this time. Essential visits include all appointments that require repairs, re-fittings and new hearing aid fittings. If you are having any problems with your hearing aids, or need supplies for your hearing aids, please call us before visiting one of our offices.  Psoriasis generally conjures the image of dry, red, flaky skin due to inflammation. Psoriasis can go beyond skin problems, by affecting your overall health. Chronic irritation can cause cardiovascular disease.
According to The Journal of Rheumatology, there was a link between psoriatic arthritis, mental health, and hearing damage. Psoriatic arthritis is a type of psoriasis where inflammation occurs near the joints, which lead to pain, inflammation, and difficulty moving. The common skin plaques may not be a symptom in those with psoriatic arthritis. Your Hearing and Psoriatic Arthritis Hearing may be affected by psoriatic arthritis. In a study there were test subjects without psoriasis or psoriatic arthritis, who were studied alongside test subjects who had one or the other condition. Researchers found that hearing loss was more likely to be reported by test subjects who had psoriasis. Those accounts were backed up with audiometric testing. Other risks were taken into account, and those who were diagnosed with psoriatic arthritis were far more likely to have hearing loss than any other group of test subjects. A study from 2015 discovered that individuals with psoriasis are more likely to experience sudden sensorineural hearing loss - or sudden deafness. With this condition, the ability to hear declines within three days. Researchers believe that those who have psoriasis are at a higher risk, due to the rapid inflammation that occurs when there is a sudden outbreak of psoriasis symptoms. Hearing loss may occur if this flare-up appears close to or inside the cochlea. This sudden hearing loss can usually be helped with treatments that relieve psoriasis, but hearing aids are recommended if sudden hearing loss is not restored with other regimens. If you suffer from psoriasis or psoriatic arthritis, closely monitor your hearing health. Get your annual healthcare check-up and regular hearing tests. Inflammation from these diseases can cause inner ear damage, which can lead to hearing loss and imbalance. There have also been connections between psoriasis, psoriatic arthritis, depression and anxiety. Each of these problems can worsen hearing loss. Get tested for your hearing early, so that you can get immediate treatment. Untreated hearing loss can lead to dementia. If you, or a loved one, are experiencing hearing loss, please contact us at Pure Sound to schedule and appointment. Please be aware that Pure Sound services will only be available by appointment and for essential visits at this time. Essential visits include all appointments that require repairs, re-fittings and new hearing aid fittings. If you are having any problems with your hearing aids, or need supplies for your hearing aids, please call us before visiting one of our offices.  There can be a number of different causes for each type of hearing loss. Noise-induced hearing loss (NIHL) and tinnitus are typically caused by being exposed to loud noises. Hearing loss can also be caused by a birth defect, genetics and a reaction to different types of drugs, particularly ones used for cancer treatments or for chemotherapy.
Causes of Two Different types of Hearing Loss Sensorineural hearing loss
Conductive hearing loss
If you, or a loved one, have experienced any of these types of hearing loss, schedule a free-hearing test and consultation with us at Pure Sound Hearing Aids. We offer a variety of hearing aid solutions for a wide range of hearing loss.  According to the American Centers for Disease Control (CDC), approximately 50 million Americans have experienced tinnitus.
1. Tinnitus Defined Tinnitus refers to the sensation of hearing sounds in your ear, even if there are no actual external noises. Typically, tinnitus is subjective, which means that the person who has this condition is the only one who can hear the noises. Generally, those who have the condition have characterized the sound as a “ringing in the ears”. Others have explained it as a chirping, buzzing, hissing, roaring, or whistling noise. Not only do the sounds vary from person to person, but the effects are also unique for each individual. Some have experienced irregular instances, while others have relentless symptoms. The need for some relief is so great that many will do anything from getting acupuncture, to using eardrops, herbal solutions, hypnosis, etc. 2. Causes of Tinnitus Experts have not determined the precise cause(s) of tinnitus. There are many sources that are known to trigger or worsen ringing sensations in the ears: Aging - Natural aging will gradually destroy the cilia. This is one of the main causes of hearing loss. Tinnitus is a frequent syndrome when it comes to age-related hearing loss. Hearing Conditions - Conditions like Ménière's disease can cause tinnitus. Health Conditions - There are numerous health conditions that have been linked to tinnitus, including:
Loud sounds - Being exposed to loud noises can destroy cilia (small hairs) located in the cochlea. These small hairs cannot regenerate, which causes permanent tinnitus and/or hearing loss. Tinnitus that is noise-induced is the result of exposure to very loud noises from your surroundings, which may include a loud concert, a factory environment, being around heavy machinery, or from gunshots. Ototoxic medications - Certain prescription medicines like antibiotics, antidepressants, anti-inflammatories, diuretics, etc. can be ototoxic (harmful to the inner ear and the nerve fibers that connect the cochlea and the brain). 3. Is tinnitus curable? Tinnitus has no known cure. According to the American Tinnitus Association (ATA), there are therapies and treatments available that may help lessen the problems associated with tinnitus. One of the options is using hearing aids. Hearing health care professionals have noted that 60 percent of patients who suffer from tinnitus have felt a sense of relief when wearing them. Sound therapy is another alternative to treating tinnitus. Hearing aids can be used effectively during acoustic or sound therapy sessions, making the ringing or buzzing sensations less evident. 4. What to do if You or Someone you know has Symptoms of Tinnitus Because the precise cause of tinnitus is unknown, it is recommended that you see a professional for a hearing test evaluation. There are specific features that are measured for tinnitus:
5. How to Relieve Tinnitus As aforementioned, there’s no cure for tinnitus, but there are hearing aids that can help relieve symptoms. If you suffer from tinnitus, contact us at Pure Sound Hearing Aids for a free hearing test and consultation for the best options that we have available for you! Pure Sound services will only be available by appointment and for essential visits at this time. Essential visits include all appointments that require repairs, re-fittings and new hearing aid fittings. If you are having any problems with your hearing aids, or need supplies for your hearing aids, please call us before visiting one of our offices.  What You May Want to Observe
There are no universal guides that have been settled upon to diagnose hidden hearing loss, but here are some things that you may notice.
What Happens to Your Brain During Hidden Hearing Loss? During the process of hearing, cilia (tiny hair cells) located in the inner ear will vibrate and send a signal to the auditory nerve (vestibulocochlear nerve). It is vital that these signals navigate over synapses, which are crucial connections between the nerve cells. Typical hearing loss occurs when there is damage to the nerve or hair cells. Hidden hearing loss usually emerges due to the loss of synapses between the cilia and the vestibulocochlear nerve. As a result, the noise that is signaled will be incomplete. This is what causes those with hidden hearing loss to miss information that is necessary to decipher language. A 2009 study that was conducted on mice, showed that loud noises could damage synapses. The mice were exposed to 100-decibels of noise - approximately the same level of sound from a lawnmower - for two hours. The researchers found that the mice’s hair cells were still in tact, but half of their synapses were permanently destroyed. Individuals who have lost their synapses might be able to hear a beeping noise during their hearing test, even if it is at a reduced volume that would confuse someone who has cell or nerve damage. Causes of Hidden Hearing Loss The combination of excessive noise and aging tend to worsen hidden hearing loss. The majority of researchers have found that extensive exposure to low noise levels might induce hidden hearing loss. It is generally agreed upon that aging exposes this issue. Some synapses are lost as we age. Another cause may be complications with cells that produce myelin (a substance which insulates the brain cells in your ears). Some autoimmune disorders such as Guillain-Barré syndrome - associated with food poisoning, the flu, hepatitis, and the Zika virus - attack myelin. Hidden hearing loss is sometimes undiagnosed and gets mistaken for attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), or central auditory processing disorder. Central auditory processing disorder is usually diagnosed in children and occurs in a different level of the brain. Living with Hidden Hearing Loss In some cases, a person with hidden hearing loss may stand or sit with a small group of people while there are several others around, and not be able to hear the people right next to them. After moving into a different room, with only a few people, this person may still need to move closer in order to hear others. Whispers can be heard in quiet spaces, but comprehending speech in noisy surroundings can be difficult. Results from a hearing test can show normal ranges, and no treatment would be given. Treating Hidden Hearing Loss If you have slight or mild hearing loss, you may find hearing aids that feature a “speech in noise” program to be beneficial. These hearing aids use directional microphones to harness the sounds emanating in front of you and diminish the sounds on your sides or behind you. There is also the option of placing a microphone close to the signal that you are trying to hear, and wearing a Bluetooth receiver or hearing aid. Please contact us at Pure Sound Hearing Aids for a free hearing test and consultation. We have experienced hearing instrument specialists who will work with you until you feel comfortable with your hearing aid devices. Pure Sound will only be open by appointment and for essential visits at this time. Essential visits include all appointments that require repairs, re-fittings and new hearing aid fittings. If you are having any issues with your hearing aids, or need supplies for your hearing aids, please call us before stopping in at one of our office locations.  Causes of Congenital Hearing Loss
Hearing loss that is present at birth, is known as congenital hearing loss. It may include hereditary hearing loss or hearing loss caused by other influences in utero. Some of the known causes include:
Genetic influences are the cause of more than 50% of SNHL. The other 50% is caused by environmental influences. Here are some statistics on hearing loss:
Severities of Hearing Loss
Hearing Loss Frequencies
The Genetic Factors of SNHL
The Environmental Factors of SNHL
Treatment
A baby’s hearing will be tested at the hospital. Pure Sound will only be open by appointment and for essential visits at this time. Essential visits include all appointments that require repairs, re-fittings and new hearing aid fittings. If you are having any issues with your hearing aids, or need supplies for your hearing aids, please call us before stopping in at one of our offices.  Advice on How to Protect Your Hearing Health
Exposure to dangerously loud repetitions can result in permanent hearing loss, tinnitus, and difficulty with comprehending speech when there is background noise. Take precautions by reducing the chances of noise-induced hearing loss (NIHL).
Hearing protection is labeled with a Noise Reduction Rating (NRR). NRR is measured in a laboratory and the vast majority of individuals receive much less noise reduction than the NRR indicates. Overall, hazardous sounds need 5 or 10 dB of noise reduction to be considered safe. Just about any properly fitted, hearing protection may provide 10 dB of protection. In order to determine if your hearing protection is properly fit, listen for a shift in how you can hear your own voice. If your voice sounds fuller, deeper, or more hollow, you probably have a correct fit. If you are exposed to sounds that reach at least 100 dBA or more (for example from a jackhammer) or a sudden loud noise (from a nail gun or firearm), it is recommended that you wear twice as much hearing protection (such as wearing earmuffs over your earplugs). Take Your Listening Environment into Consideration Think about whether you need to wear eyeglasses, sunglasses, or any other type of eye protection. Maybe you need to wear a hat, helmet, or another type of head protection. These accessories may interfere with how a pair of earmuffs are sealed. Earmuffs may feel uncomfortable in humid climates; the cushions on earmuffs may not be completely sealed off in colder environments. Earplugs can be an alternative option. If your hands are bound to get dirty, do not use foam earplugs (these need to be rolled smaller with your fingers prior to inserting them into your ear canals). Think about what type of noises you are hearing. Are the sounds continuous or intermittent? Earmuffs and pre-formed earplugs can be easily removed and frequently replaced than foam plugs. Having corded earplugs are convenient if you don’t have pockets or a purse. If you are listening to music or need to talk to others while wearing your ear protection, you can use flat attenuation earplugs or earmuffs (or musician’s earplugs) in order to preserve sound consistency. Maybe you’ll be in a quiet setting, but there will be spontaneous eruptions of sound, like fireworks. Level-dependent, or sound restoration, hearing protectors let sounds permeate through when it’s quiet and become a safeguard for your hearing when noises get loud. Take Comfort and Convenience into Consideration Sort out which type of hearing protection is suitable, based on your noise exposure and how you intend to use them. It’s important to keep in mind that the hearing protection will only work if you wear them consistently and properly each time you are prone to dangerous noise levels. Select protection that benefits your needs and feels comfortable. Pure Sound will only be open by appointment and for essential visits at this time. Essential visits include all appointments that require repairs, re-fittings and new hearing aid fittings.  Muffled noises can sound and feel as though there are cotton balls in your ears. It's a similar feeling to the pressure that is felt when reaching a high altitude while flying in an airplane. There isn't a total inability to hear, but you may struggle to hear clearly.
The phenomenon of muffled hearing develops when sound waves have difficulty transferring through the inner ear. Different circumstances can cause an obstruction in the ear. Some cases are insignificant and can be resolved immediately, but other instances need immediate medical attention in order to prevent further hearing loss. Signs of muffled hearing Experiencing muffled hearing is not only identified by the sensation of having cotton balls in your ears. Here are some other symptoms:
Causes of muffled hearing in one ear The symptom of muffled hearing can be caused by multiple conditions. Some of these include: Buildup of earwax Earwax stops dirt and debris from getting into the ear canal. It's also a natural lubricant for the ears. Occasionally, earwax can build up and be impacted in one or both ears. Earwax that builds up and obstructs the ear canal can be a small problem, but excessive buildup can cause muffled hearing. Other problems that may arise due to earwax build-up include earaches, too much pressure, and tinnitus. Presbycusis This type of hearing loss is caused by aging and those who experience it are unable to hear high-pitched sounds. Those who suffer from this type of hearing loss may have difficulty hearing a phone ring. Other signs of presbycusis include difficulty hearing while there is background noise, tinnitus, and struggling to hear women or small children's voices. Middle ear infection Bacterial or viral infections develop when fluid builds up in the middle ear due to swelling or inflammation in the eustachian tube. This tube siphons the liquid from the middle ear. There are some middle ear infections that are moderate and tend to clear out on their own. Other middle ear infections may cause pain in your ears, ear drainage, or hearing loss if left untreated. Symptoms of an ear infection in children include tugging at the ear, crying more than usual, a loss of appetite, and fever. Common cold The common cold may induce muffled hearing from congestion blocking the Eustachian tube. Colds are generally innocuous. A clogged ear will clear up as soon as the congestion clears up. Hay fever Symptoms of hay fever are similar to symptoms of cold and sinus infections. Allergies can cause congestion in the ear, which can trigger a mild muffled hearing. Airplane ear Airplane ear is caused by an imbalance of air pressure in the middle ear, and the air pressure in your surroundings. This tends to occur in an airplane, elevator, or while going up a tall mountain. You may experience ear pain, bleeding from the affected ear, or vertigo. Normally, this is not considered a serious condition, but it can lead to persistent tinnitus or hearing loss. Noise-induced hearing loss Noise-induced hearing loss (NIHL) occurs when there is damage to your auditory nerve. You may experience mild, severe, temporary, or permanent hearing loss. It only takes a one-time, brief exposure to loud noise to cause NIHL, or repeated exposure thereafter. Blockage in the ear In addition to earwax, any foreign object in the ear canal can cause muffled hearing. This could include an insect, water, or any small object. This is a common culprit for children. If there is a foreign object obstructing your ear, seek immediate medical attention to avoid further damage to the ear. These types of blockage may cause pain, feelings of fullness in the ears, and hearing loss. Medications Some types of medication can adversely affect the nerve cells in your inner ears. These include: Antibiotics Anti-inflammatory drugs (aspirin and ibuprofen) Chemotherapy drugs Loop diuretics Other symptoms of medically induced hearing loss include fullness in the ear, tinnitus, and vertigo. Perforated eardrum A perforated eardrum is also known as a ruptured eardrum. This is also another cause of muffled hearing. It happens when a hole or tear forms in the tissue, which separates the middle ear from the ear canal. A ruptured eardrum normally doesn't require urgent attention and can heal on its own. Other symptoms may include:
Tumor If you are experiencing hearing muffled sounds, it could be a sign of a tumor. Acoustic neuroma is a benign growth that forms on the main nerve that leads from the inner ear to the brain. Other signs are losing your balance, facial numbness, tinnitus, or vertigo. A lump on your neck can be a symptom of nasopharyngeal cancer. This type of cancer grows in the upper part of your throat and may cause muffled hearing, tinnitus, and pain in your ear. Meniere's disease This disease occurs in the inner ear. Symptoms include muffled hearing, pain in the ear, tinnitus, vertigo. It is not known as to what causes Meniere's disease. Some speculate that it could be linked to abnormal fluid in the inner ear. There's no cure for it, but symptoms might improve or go away with time. Brain injury or trauma to the head Serious injury to the brain or head trauma can damage bones in the middle ear or nerves located in the inner ear. This can occur due to a serious fall or impact to the head. Treating muffled hearing Remove anything that is blocking your hearing. If earwax is obstructing your ear canals, you may use an earwax removal kit which will soften and flush out the wax. Do not use a Q-Tip. That could push whatever is obstructing your ear further into your ear. Hearing aids In some instances, the muffled hearing won't improve. This might happen with Meniere's disease, age-related hearing loss, NIHL, or hearing loss caused by trauma or medication. If your hearing loss is permanent, hearing aids may help to amplify sounds. Pure Sound will only be open by appointment and for essential visits at this time. Essential visits include all appointments that require repairs, re-fittings and new hearing aid fittings.  There is a wide range of hearing loss. Each degree comes with more difficulty or loss of particular sounds. Hearing levels are categorized as normal, mild, moderate, severe and profound. Being unable to hear sounds often leads to isolation, frustration, and depression.
Here’s a list of six sounds that you might miss:
Here’s a list of sound levels, and examples of noises associated with them: Normal (up to 25dB of hearing loss in adults, 15dB of hearing loss in children) You have the ability to hear speech clearly in quiet or calm environments.
Mild (between 26-40dB of hearing loss in adults) You have difficulty with speech and sounds in busy or reverberating surroundings, but you are able to hear clearly in quiet environments.
Moderate (between 41-70dB of hearing loss in adults) You have difficulty comprehending speech, notably when there is background noise and if you need to raise the volume on your computer, phone, radio and TV.
Severe (between 71-90dB of hearing loss in adults) Ordinary speech cannot be heard at all or it’s muffled, even when it’s spoken loudly and it is difficult to distinguish speech. You can comprehend speech using some form of amplifier or hearing aid, but it still doesn’t sound normal.
Profound (91dB or more in adults) Distinguishing speech is still challenging even with an amplifier or cannot be heard at all.
Pure Sound will only be open by appointment and for essential visits at this time. Essential visits include all appointments that require repairs, re-fittings, and new hearing aid fittings.  Have you ever had water trapped in your ear after a swim, or a shower? Signs of having water trapped in your ear include a sensation of fullness in the ear canal and feeling water shaking around in your ear. This can occur in one or each ear.
If the water does not discharge on its own, this might cause otitis externa - an ear infection that is also called swimmer’s ear. Why does water get trapped in your ears? Water can stay in your ears for reasons such as a narrow ear canal or because it is trapped by excessive earwax or other foreign matter. Who does this usually affect? Adults and children who frequently spend time in the water are at the highest risk. Getting water trapped in your ears may occur whenever you submerge under water. In some instances, turning yourself upside down when doing a flip or handstand, could cause water to enter your ears. Are there any risks to having water trapped in your ears? In some cases, there are risks to having water stuck in your ears. Your ears excrete a waxy, water resistant substance known as cerumen (earwax). Typically, water will trickle out of the ear on its own. If it does not, bacteria can grow causing swimmer’s ear. Bacteria thrive in environments that are humid, wet, where there are abrasions or scratches inside the ear canal, or due to allergic reactions and skin conditions. The first signs of swimmer’s ear could be mild, and they include:
Tips to prevent water from entering your ears You can wear over-the-counter earplugs, or discuss purchasing a pair of earplugs that are designed to be used in the water with your hearing instrument specialist. These earplugs may cost more than your average foam ear plugs that you can buy at the drugstore, but they can be customized for your ears. They are also washable and reusable. Tips to remove water from your ears If you do get water in your ears, do not place anything inside your ear canal with the intention of draining the liquid out. Using a cotton swab, your finger or any other foreign object into your ear might push whatever is blocking your ears deeper into the canal, puncturing your eardrum. This may also scratch off any waxy layers that protect your ears, which can cause bacteria or an infection to grow. Here’s what you should do instead:
Pure Sound will only be open by appointment and for essential visits at this time. Essential visits include all appointments that require repairs, re-fittings, and new hearing aid fittings.  Statistics on Hearing Metal Manufacturers
Out of all the trades in the work industry, those who work with metals have the greatest risk of suffering from noise-induced hearing loss (NIHL). The Bureau of Labor Statistics has reported that cases of hearing loss in every primary metal manufacturing is significantly higher than chemical, food, or furniture manufacturing, construction, gas and oil extraction, along with several other fields. Working with metals is hazardous to your hearing due to how they are dealt with, processed and what their properties are. It is crucial to include elements like characteristics of noise, job description, number of years employed, a timeline of audiometric changes, time-weighted averages (TWA), and peak levels of noise when assessing the standard threshold for an employee. Noise-levels in Metal Manufacturing The noise-levels in the metal manufacturing industry are higher than in other industries because of the complexity of the metals’ properties. Sound is transmitted through the air at 1,130 ft. per second. Sounds coming from steel are transmitted through the air at 16,000 ft. per second. Train robbers were able to hear the vibrations from the railroad tracks in order to determine whether a train was arriving before it came into view. Metals fluctuate in density, so the acoustics and boundaries play a role in how the sounds are transmitted. When metal is chiseled, forged, hammered, pressed, or stamped the sounds produced can reach between 120 to 140 dB or more. When tools come in contact with metal, a signal will randomly appear and at different impact rates per second. There’s a wide range of sounds that come from metal that are unpredictable, and usually higher in frequency response. The Committee on Hearing, Bioacoustics, and Biomechanics (CHABA), extensive durations of signal noises are deemed more harmful than brief impulses. Hearing Abilities of Steel Workers Two studies were conducted on steel workers who did not use, or partially used, protection for their hearing. It showed similarities in hearing loss, noting that protecting your hearing infrequently will not be effective. Out of all the employees who work around continuous noise, those who work in the metal industry have a higher rate of hearing loss, and different hearing abilities in each ear. There were similar discoveries of hearing loss found in all noise-exposed employees, but those in the metal work industry have been impacted the most. A Brief History on Hearing Protection According to the Acoustic Society of America, the Greeks were the first people in recorded history to use hearing protection. It was not until 1864, during the Civil War, when the first hearing protection patent was legally certified by the government. Starting in 1884, ear plugs and canal caps featuring a headband, were given to sailors and soldiers. In 1914, disposable plugs were patented, the 1970s saw an emergence of soft-foam ear plugs, and in the 1980s an electronic earmuff system became available. Generally, hearing protection was not worn by those in the manufacturing industry. Most industries did not provide hearing protection for workers in the U.S. until the Walsh-Healy Noise Standards of 1969 was authorized. In some industries, hearing protection was not properly used or never used. Your Hearing Health It’s important that all forms of hearing protection are properly fitted in order to get the best benefits out of them. It is also vital for an employer to counsel the employee on the benefits of using hearing protection and the dangers of not using hearing protection on the job. Hearing protection that features a built-in form of communication such as Bluetooth® can be a good option for anyone who works in a field. When verifying the cause of high-frequency hearing loss in an industry, the effect of how noise impacts an individual should be considered. The effects of noise varies from person to person, so it’s important to know what someone’s risk level is based on their job description, TWA, and peak level data, and recording one’s own changes in hearing. By advising which hearing protection should be used based on a person’s hearing abilities and occupation, it can help to preserve the hearing health that they have. Using a hearing aid device can help you hear more clearly and gain some perception. Pure Sound will only be open by appointment and for essential visits at this time. Essential visits include all appointments that require repairs, re-fittings, and new hearing aid fittings.  Have you ever felt your ears clog up for no reason? Have you ever heard muffle sounds when there was nothing obstructing your ear canals? Here are four typical reasons why your ears may feel clogged. Impacted earwax Earwax is generally a great way for your body to protect your ears. It helps to catch dirt and other particles by acting as a coating, and it easily falls out of your ear canal on its own, serving as a way of self-cleaning. In some cases, the earwax can become impacted and influence how well you can hear. The American Academy of Otolaryngology-Head Neck Surgery have listed the following symptoms as an indication that earwax is probably causing an issue:
Do not try to remove the earwax by using a cotton swab, baby oil, or hydrogen peroxide. You could unintentionally puncture your eardrum or push the earwax further into your ear canal, which can become impacted. Getting rid of this naturally occurring, protective lubricant can cause dry, itchy ears.Find out whether your ears need to be thoroughly cleaned by discussing it with a professional. Ear fluid Swimmers generally encounter this problem more than others. Occasionally, non-swimmers can also get fluid in their ears. Fluid build-up in the ear can happen for a number of reasons:
Excessive noise exposure This can cause feelings of clogged ears or tinnitus. You may have felt this after going to a crowded sports stadium or concert. These symptoms normally go away within 48 hours, but it’s always a good idea to prevent this from happening by:
Pressure due to sinuses
Hearing loss, due to sinus infections, pressure or sinusitis, is usually temporary. Hearing should go back to normal when the sinus congestion clears up. If you, or a loved one, experience pain or unexpected hearing loss from sinus congestion, contact us at Pure Sound Hearing Aids for a free hearing test and consultation. You can have your hearing evaluated. An initial test will help you, and your hearing healthcare provider, monitor your hearing health.  Cognitive Decline and Age
Have you ever said to yourself, “I can’t hear myself think?” This usually indicates that there’s too much background noise, which can make it difficult to focus. Many studies have shown that there is a link between hearing abilities and cognitive function in older adults. The recognition of complex sounds, like music and speech, includes more than just the detection of these sounds and being able to distinguish them from each other. What ties cognition and hearing together has only recently become a primary focus in research studies. One result from a research study showed that age-related cognitive decline is higher among adults who have hearing loss, than those with healthy hearing abilities. Overall conclusions show the negative side of hearing loss affects more than just your quality of life. Learning about the connection between hearing loss and the impact it has on cognitive abilities can lead to early intervention, along with practical solutions that can benefit a person’s well being. Links between Cognition and Hearing
Ethnicity and Race A recent study focused on the connection between hearing loss and cognition concerning ethnicity and race. Researchers studied cases of dementia and hearing loss among an ethnically diverse neighborhood in New York City. There were 1,881 participants (40% Hispanic, 31% African American, and 29% Caucasian). There were 377 who developed an episode of dementia during an average of 7.4 years of follow-up visits. There was a 1.69 greater risk of dementia in those who had hearing loss, than in those with normal hearing abilities. When it was ordered by ethnicity and race, the hearing loss raised the risk of an episode of dementia only for African American participants. The risks of dementia for Hispanics and Caucasians who had hearing loss was higher for individuals who previously had normal hearing. The differences between these three groups are evident, even when education and income considered. The exact reason for the higher risks of dementia in elderly African American adults who suffer from hearing loss is unknown. In tests that were conducted, spectral-temporal processing, where listeners were asked to distinguish changes in a spectral-ripple and compare brief (0.5 sec.) spectro-temporal frequency patterns indicated lower performance in African American participants than Caucasian participants. Their performance was compared with global cognition which was evaluated by utilizing a battery of 12 neuropsychological tests, explicitly with scores on working memory tests. The authors of the test indicated that dissimilarities in the response strategies by African American and Caucasian participants in tasks with high feelings of uncertainty may have affected the performance differences between the groups. A different study showed that African American adults demonstrate a higher resilience to age-related hearing loss. The link between hearing loss and cognition in African American adults is more complicated than simply associating them together as a group. Cognitive Decline A study found that older adults who reported their own hearing loss and who wore hearing aids had the same pace of cognitive decline as those who had healthy hearing abilities. Those who suffered from hearing loss and did not wear hearing aids had a much higher rate of cognitive decline. The study was based on 3,414 participants during a 25-year study. This study proves that a person’s cognition can be supported with the use of hearing aids. In another study, people who did not recognize that they had hearing loss, or did not feel comfortable admitting it, were not properly categorized. Also, hearing aid usage was only addressed during the initial study and did not show the frequency or consistency of use over time. The faster rate of cognitive decline for those with hearing loss showed no dissimilarities from those who had healthy hearing abilities, after controlling psychosocial variables. The study observed that it was unlikely that hearing aid usage directly affects cognitive abilities, but it speculated that depression and social isolation, which is linked to hearing loss, is what may diminish cognitive abilities. Effects of Hearing Loss In a study, those who had a hearing impairment, and the people they communicated with, listed the complaints they had. In addition, problems that were directly linked to hearing (communication and listening) the individual who was hard of hearing and those who they communicated with had a number of complaints in regard to social interactions and their own well-being. Engaging with others in a social setting and self-appraisal are common aspects of cognitive decline in older adults. These actions also play hearing and cognitive functions in elderly adults. There is not a complete understanding of the link between hearing and cognition, there is information on mediating elements which inform experts on ways to intervene and preserve the hearing that these individuals still have. Hearing aids, along with a healthy brain, diet, and exercise are effective means to help with social situations and the overall health of someone who has hearing loss. If you, or a loved one, suffer from hearing loss and believe using hearing aids would be beneficial, please contact us at Pure Sound Hearing Aids for a free hearing test and consultation.  Hearing loss can affect anyone of any age, race, or gender.
In honor of Women's History Month, here is a list of well-known women who had, or have, hearing loss and were able to live with it and manage it. Juliette Gordon Low The founder of Girl Scouts of America, Juliette Gordon Low, suffered from hearing loss throughout her adult life. When she was 29 years old, a grain of rice was thrown at her wedding, which caused a puncture in her eardrum. This resulted in her becoming deaf in one of her ears. She never allowed her hearing loss to deter her life. In 1912, she established the Girl Scouts organization. Low encouraged girls with disabilities to be involved in society. She started offering opportunities to others like her and gave young girls more fulfillment in their lives. Whoopi Goldberg American actor, comedian, author, and TV personality, Whoopi Goldberg has suffered from hearing loss over the years. She has shared the fact that she wears hearing aids, and pinpointed the cause of her hearing loss to listening to loud music. After experiencing hearing loss first-hand, she became an advocate for Starkey Hearing Foundation, which provides free hearing aid devices to children across the globe. Goldberg shared her past experiences and encouraged others to be careful of overusing music listening devices. Barbra Streisand In a 1985 interview with broadcast journalist Barbara Walters, American singer, actor, and filmmaker, Barbra Streisand revealed that she has suffered from tinnitus since she was 9-years-old. As a child, she would wrap scarves around her head in order to block the noise. She stated that she felt different and isolated from other kids. She lived with this secret for several years, until she got help from a medical professional. Her successful career, as someone who suffers from tinnitus, is a great example of not allowing a hearing problem discourage her. Halle Berry Halle Berry, one of the most famous actresses today, is partially deaf with 80% of hearing loss in one ear due to domestic violence. She has devoted her time to speak out against domestic violence and supporting victims of abuse. Berry not only lives with hearing loss but uses her status to promote effective change. These historic and modern women have been able to show everyone that it is possible to live with and well beyond hearing loss. If you, or a loved one, suffer from hearing loss, please contact us for a free hearing test and consultation. We offer a variety of hearing aid devices for a wide range of hearing loss!  Spring Break is coming up! This is normally the time when college students from around the world flock to sunny locations. It’s always nice to get away from the classroom, but remember to take care of yourself and your hearing. Here are five ways you can preserve your hearing health during Spring Break:
Your decisions about this trip can impact your future health and well-being, which includes your hearing. These suggestions will allow you to have a great time without sacrificing your hearing. If you are experiencing hearing loss, please contact us at Pure Sound Hearing Aids for a free hearing test and consultation.  Hearing loss is more common in metal manufacturing than in other industries
Out of all the trades in the work industry, those who work with metals have the greatest risk of suffering from noise-induced hearing loss (NIHL). The Bureau of Labor Statistics has reported that cases of hearing loss in every primary metal manufacturing is significantly higher than chemical, food, or furniture manufacturing, construction, gas and oil extraction, along with several other fields. Working with metals is hazardous to your hearing due to how they are dealt with, processed and what their properties are. It is crucial to include elements like characteristics of noise, job description, number of years employed, a timeline of audiometric changes, time-weighted averages (TWA) and peak levels of noise when assessing the standard threshold for an employee. Noise-levels in metal manufacturing The noise-levels in the metal manufacturing industry are higher than in other industries because of the complexity of the metals’ properties. Sound is transmitted through the air at 1,130 ft. per second. Sounds coming from steel are transmitted through the air at 16,000 ft. per second. Train robbers were able to hear the vibrations from the railroad tracks in order to determine whether a train was arriving before it came into view. Metals fluctuate in density, so the acoustics and boundaries play a role in how the sounds are transmitted. When metal is chiseled, forged, hammered, pressed or stamped, the sounds produced can reach between 120 to 140 dB or more. When tools come in contact with metal, a signal will randomly appear and impact at different rates per second. There’s a wide range of sounds that come from metal - which are unpredictable - and usually higher in frequency response. The Committee on Hearing, Bioacoustics and Biomechanics (CHABA) claim that an extensive duration of signal noises are deemed more harmful than brief impulses. Hearing abilities of steel workers Two studies were conducted on steel workers who did not use, or occasionally used, protection for their hearing. It showed similarities in hearing loss, noting that intermittently protecting your hearing will not be effective. Out of all the employees who work around continuous noise, those who work in the metal industry have a higher rate of hearing loss and dissimilar hearing abilities in each ear. There were similar discoveries of hearing loss found in all noise-exposed employees, but those in the metal work industry have been impacted the most. A brief history on hearing protection According to the Acoustic Society of America, Greeks were the first people in recorded history to use hearing protection. It was not until 1864, during the Civil War, when the first hearing protection patent was legally certified by the government. Starting in 1884, ear plugs and canal caps featuring a headband, were given to sailors and soldiers. In 1914, disposable plugs were patented, the 1970s saw an emergence if soft-foam ear plugs, and in the 1980s an electronic earmuff system became available. Generally, hearing protection was not worn by those in the manufacturing industry. Most industries did not provide hearing protection for workers in the U.S. until the Walsh-Healy Noise Standards of 1969 was authorized. In some industries, hearing protection was not properly used or never used. Your hearing health It’s important that all forms of hearing protection are properly worn and fitted in order to get the best benefits out of them. It is also vital for an employer to counsel the employee on the advantages of using hearing protection, along with the dangers of not using hearing protection on the job. Hearing protection that features a built-in form of communication, such as Bluetooth®, can be a good option for any place of business. When verifying the cause of high-frequency hearing loss in an industry, the effect of how noise impacts an individual should be considered. The effects of noise varies from person to person, therefore it’s important to know what someone’s risk level is based on their job description, TWA, peak level data and record of one’s own changes in hearing. By advising which hearing protection should be used based on a person’s hearing abilities and occupation, it can help to preserve the hearing health that they have. Using a hearing aid device can help you hear more clearly and gain better awareness of your surroundings. If you, or a loved one, have hearing loss due to your line of work, or any other reason, please contact us at Pure Sound Hearing Aids for a free hearing test and consultation. Our hearing instrument specialists will patiently work with you, or your loved one, to find the best hearing solutions.  It’s important to know that permanent hearing loss cannot be reversed. Hearing loss is a slow process that occurs as you age, so it’s not very noticeable until it’s too late. Noise-induced hearing loss (NIHL) is the only type of hearing loss that can be prevented. Excessive noise exposure is the leading cause of it. You can immediately suffer from permanent hearing loss if you lack hearing protection when exposed to particular sounds.
How to protect your hearing from loud noises
Prevent damage from foreign objects
Decibel levels Decibels (dB) are measurements of sound intensities. The faintest sound that can be heard by humans is 0dB. The loudest sound comes from a rocket launch, which can reach at least 180dB. Generally, 85dB or more is the level that endangers your hearing. These noise levels come from things like lawn mowers and motorcycles, which can cause permanent hearing loss. Noise decibels and sources of sound 140dB - A gunshot or a jet engine during takeoff. This poses an immediate danger to your hearing. 125dB - An air raid siren or fireworks. This is known as the “pain threshold”. 120dB - Rock concerts or using a sandblasting tool. Your hearing can be damaged in 7 minutes. 115dB - A baby crying or a jet ski. Your hearing can be damaged in 15 minutes. 110dB - A driver using a snowmobile. Your hearing can be damaged in 30 minutes. 105dB - A helicopter or jackhammer. Your hearing can be damaged in 1 hour. 100dB - A chainsaw or stereo headphones. Your hearing can be damaged in 2 hours. 95dB - A motorcycle or power saw. Your hearing can be damaged in 4 hours. 90dB - A lawnmower, truck traffic. Your hearing can be damaged in 8 hours. 85dB - This is the beginning of the hearing threshold that is considered dangerous. 70dB - Busy traffic, vacuum cleaner. 60dB - Conversations with others, a dishwasher. 40dB - A quiet room. Here’s a list of decibel meter apps that you can use on your smartphone. If you, or a loved one, are experiencing hearing loss please contact us at Pure Sound Hearing Aids for a free hearing test and consultation with one of our hearing instrument specialists.  Children's Hearing and Vision Affects Learning and Development
It’s common for children to have problems with hearing and vision. Most children who suffer from moderate, temporary problems may not receive a formal diagnosis. More and more studies indicate that mild loss in hearing or vision may significantly play a role in a child’s learning and development. There was a recent study conducted by pediatric audiologists examined the pervasiveness and impact coexisting, common, mild hearing and visual problems on the academic achievement of children who went to mainstream schools. A sample was taken from the Avon Longitudinal Study of Parents and Children (ALSPAC), which is a broad population-based birth group in England. Children were identified as having hearing and visual difficulties by the age of 7. Data on their achievements in standardized nationwide exams at age 10 to evaluate outcomes in education was used. The study found that coexisting hearing and vision complications during childhood have a long-lasting negative impact on a child’s educational outcomes. This is higher than the singular effects if hearing or visual problems individually. This study highlights the importance of early detection and early intervention. Issues with Hearing A prevalent cause of hearing issues in children is persistent otitis media with effusion (OME, “glue ear”). This is when fluid becomes trapped inside the ear. The problem with this condition is that it cannot be seen from the surface and there aren’t any evident symptoms. When fluid builds up in the middle ear, the ossicles - three tiny ear bones - cannot vibrate, thus it cannot transfer sounds from the outer ear to the inner ear. Hearing loss, the ability to read, and cognition are affected as a result. In a study on 2,909 children, 261 (9%) children who suffered from mild to moderate conductive hearing loss and/or OME were identified. There was a weak link between mild hearing difficulties for those 7 years of age, and poorer academic achievement in national standardized tests at ages 10 and 16. Issues with Vision A decrease in a child’s sense of vision has been linked to poor literacy, but the influence of more prevalent visual problems on education is not clearly defined. Two of the most common types of visual issues that children face are amblyopia and strabismus. They each occur in relation to other conditions, which may affect a child’s development and academic achievements, for example low birthweight and prematurity. In a study of 189 (6.5%) children who had mild visual problems, they were found to have no negative relationship between mild visual problems and academic achievement between the ages of 10 or 16. Coexisting Problems It’s been widely recognized that the combination of auditory and visual data establishes most cognitive processes. This incorporates speech perception, and is fundamental to developing language and communication skills. Having problems with hearing or vision can negatively affect a child’s literacy progress and make them susceptible to an accumulation of difficulties with their senses. From the study, 14 (0.5%) of the children who had hearing and visual impairments, there was a clear negative link between coexisting hearing and visual problems related to academic achievement for children who were 10-years-old. It was more than the burden of hearing problems itself. There was also a weak link between coexisting hearing and visual problems associated with academic achievement for 16-year-olds. Clinical and Research Conclusions Children who are known to have hearing and visual struggles need to be screened on a regular basis to check for other sensory impairments. This will allow for early detection and proper treatment. This is the first study to examine the impact of coexisting common and mild hearing and visual difficulties associated with academic achievement. The study is limited due to missing statistics, and incorporate underrepresented children from ethnic minorities and low socio-economic backgrounds. Additional research is needed to explain more details about the negative link between coexisting common hearing and visual problems and educational outcomes. If you have a child, or grandchild, who has difficulty with hearing, please contact us at Pure Sound Hearing Aids for a free hearing test and consultation.  Those who live in a city are routinely exposed to dangerous noise levels that can result in hearing loss. These boisterous sounds are heard “against their will” throughout their daily lives.
The noise threshold It only takes 85 decibels of noise to be considered hazardous. All the sounds from traffic, horns from automobiles, moving and stopping subways, airports, construction and any other industrial work has frequently passed that noise threshold. Prevent noise-induced hearing loss Remember that noise-induced hearing loss can be prevented. It only takes a little effort and awareness to prevent it. Always carry a pair of earplugs with you, and use them when you notice that the sounds around you are too loud. If possible, leave the loud area and go to a quieter space. A good indication that it’s time to place your earplugs in is if you need to shout in order to be heard by someone standing near you. If you, or a loved one, are experiencing hearing loss, please contact us at Pure Sound Hearing Aids for a free hearing test and consultation from one of our hearing instrument specialists. We offer a variety of hearing aids from top name brands. Why are People in the Field of Dentistry more likely to Experience Hearing Loss and Tinnitus?1/2/2020  Statistics and history of hearing loss and tinnitus among those in the dental care industry
It has been reported that dentists suffer from hearing loss and tinnitus at double the rate of the overall population. The cause is due to noise-induced hearing loss (NIHL) from the sounds of high-speed dental drills. Since the 1960s, the high-speed dental drills have not decreased in noise intensity. During the 1970s, American and Canadian governments authorized legislation in workplace safety. This included laws that determined what the limits were for being exposed to noise. There were surveys given to occupations that were normally not associated with dangerous noise levels. This interest raised concerns for dental clinics and universities that had dental labs. The surveys showed a strong connection between the use of high speed dental drills, and increased risks of NIHL and tinnitus among those in the dental care profession. Addressing NIHL in the dental care profession Dentists, and dental hygienists, may wear protection for their hearing or reduce how often they use the high-speed dental drills. The easiest solution is to wear custom-made high-fidelity earplugs for musicians. They have a snug fit, are discrete, and will not disturb communication or interfere with the procedure. The only other alternative for a high-speed dental drill is a dental laser. A dental laser will provide the same quality service, minus the excessive noise. NIHL has been reported in many other professions from construction workers to those who work in the public transportation industries. Even though high-speed dental drills produce less noise than larger machines, there is still a risk of hearing loss. It’s similar to using a hairdryer. The noise is loud, but tolerable as long as it stays at a distance from your ears. Enduring many years of practice around these loud tools can cause dental care professionals to become accustomed to the intense noises, just like any job that uses loud equipment. Long-term exposure to high-speed dental drills can cause permanent hearing loss. Losing the ability to hear high-pitched frequencies Higher-pitched frequencies are the first regions impacted by age and NIHL. Even mild hearing loss in this region that distinguishes speech sounds will affect communication, especially if there are distracting background noises. There isn’t much that can be done about age-related hearing loss, but it can be possible to reduce workplace NIHL by using hearing protection. Noise levels in operating rooms and university labs Although there have been many advances in dental tools, they remain just as loud as they were in the 1960s. The average high speed dental drill can reach sound levels between 70 to 105 dBA. Noise from the ultrasonic scalers can produce 80 to 92 dBA, and suction tools can produce 74-80 dBA. To put this in perspective being exposed to sounds that reach at least 85 dB can cause hearing loss. It has been reported that 25 percent of dental students who are exposed to harmful sound levels while practicing in labs, have experienced an average of 15-minutes of a temporary threshold shift (TTS) after they practice using a high-speed dental drill. This is a temporary shift in the auditory threshold that can abruptly occur after being exposed to a high noise level. Many people’s hearing abilities are temporarily reduced as a result. If someone frequently experiences a TTS, it can cause permanent hearing loss. Tinnitus and other comorbidities Hearing loss can effect secondary neurological, physiological and psychological shifts. The most common symptoms are ringing or buzzing noises that are heard as a result of tinnitus. Although tinnitus is typically associated with NIHL, it’s not noticeable by 84 percent of people. Tinnitus symptoms that are irritating tends to occur when three connected neural systems - the aural system, autonomic nervous system, and limbic system - react by misinterpreting the tinnitus as a threat. The limbic system creates negative emotions, or the fight-or-flight response, and the basic process of interpreting sound in the aural centers which affects the response. This causes a combination of stress-induced physiological and psychological shifts which include growth in producing stress hormones, higher blood pressure, and a lack of restfulness. These symptoms can range from an annoying distraction, to being unable to tolerate the sounds. This can cause distress to an individual’s mental and physical well-being. In some instances, tinnitus sufferers have considered ending their own lives as a way to escape the sound. Dentists suffer from tinnitus at twice the rate of academic and laser dentists, medical doctors, and the population in general. Hearing loss that goes untreated has been associated with depression, being hospitalized, socially isolated, decrease in motor coordination, and poor cognitive abilities. It has also been linked to Alzheimer’s disease. Neurons that aren’t being used by your auditory system, will then be used by your visual center. The auditory centers will move out to your frontal lobes, searching for neurons that can be used, which is what causes the decline. If you are a dentist, dental hygienist, or dental student who is experiencing hearing loss due to noise exposure from high-speed dental drills, please contact us at Pure Sound Hearing Aids for a free hearing test and consultation.  When hearing loss starts to happen for some people, they might notice the inability to hear in one ear more than the other. Normal age-related hearing loss - or presbycusis - generally affects each ear evenly. If there is more hearing loss in one ear than the other this may be due to something else besides hearing problems associated with age.
Possible Causes of Hearing Loss for One Ear Chronic ear infections. An infection in the middle ear is known as otitis media. This is an inflammation and infection that happens in the middle ear where fluid builds up due to bacteria. It may last for several weeks. A severe infection may block the Eustachian tube. This tube will normally drain excess fluid from the middle ear, which can affect your hearing. Depending on how thick the fluid is in the ear, these chronic ear infections can cause hearing loss ranging between 24 to 45 decibels. Earwax. Impacted earwax, or cerumen impaction, may cause different severities of hearing loss in each ear. About six percent of Americans have pain or hearing loss due to earwax buildup. In addition to obstructing the ear and causing hearing loss, earwax buildup can cause an infection due to bad bacteria that gets trapped in the ear. Good bacteria can help stop wax buildup and infections. In some instances there are good bacteria in one ear, but not in the other. Tumors. Tumors may cause dissimilarities in hearing for each ear. The most prevalent kind of tumor that may cause loss of hearing is known as acoustic neuroma. These are benign tumors that grow slowly. They can affect a person’s hearing abilities by growing on the nerve that leads from the brain to the inner ear. These nerves are linked to balance and hearing, so acoustic neuroma can cause dizziness and hearing loss. If you experience hearing loss, do not ignore it! Contact us at Pure Sound Hearing Aids for a free hearing test and consultation.  Recruitment
Have you ever experienced more irritation, or pain, from hearing loud sounds? This is a common occurrence for some people who have hearing loss. There is a term for this known as, recruitment. As we age, the delicate hair cells located in our inner ears become weaker. They cannot react to sounds the same way that they used to. This is what causes hearing loss. Human cells do not diminish evenly. Some hair cells, for example, can still properly function and detect sounds. When volumes become loud enough to hear, the healthy cells are abruptly recruited instead of the dying cells. They react quickly and vigorously. The result can be sound that feels painful. In a typical case, an individual with hearing loss might not respond to someone who is vying for their attention as they speak in normal or low levels. As the person talks at a louder volume in order to get the hearing impaired individual’s attention, the person with hearing loss may suddenly hear them and have a strong reaction as though they are in pain. They may even shield their ears and ask the person to stop yelling. Hyperacusis A similar symptom is hyperacusis. This is when someone is extremely sensitive to sound. This is different from recruitment because it is not related to sensorineural hearing loss. Some causes of hyperacusis include:
For example, children who have autism and auditory processing disorder, could experience sensitivity to sound. Treatment for hearing loss and recruitment Recruitment can be treated. A test needs to be conducted in order to get a diagnosis for what is causing someone to be very sensitive to sounds. If you suffer from hearing loss with recruitment, a good quality pair of hearing aids can be programmed to compress sounds in the particular range that aggravates you. Lower-end hearing aids and hearing amplifiers probably won’t be useful because they do not have as many compression bands that can be tailored to your needs. The result of this is overall poor hearing. It is very important to have an experienced hearing instrument specialist who can identify recruitment and program your hearing aids for your specific needs. Recruitment can slowly progress over time. You might notice significant sensitivity to sound even after you wear your hearing aid devices. If this happens, tell your hearing instrument specialist that you experience pain when you hear certain sounds. Some people can be treated with tinnitus retraining therapy. Seeking help If you are, or have been, experiencing recruitment, contact us at Pure Sound Hearing Aids for a free hearing test and consultation. Hearing loss that goes untreated increases your social isolation, which is associated with depression and cognitive decline. The right pair of hearing aids can benefit your quality of life, and make you feel more confident. |
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