Hearing Loss: Categories, Causes, Symptoms, Statistics & the Dangers of Not Getting Treatment10/23/2020  Hearing loss can occur in one ear or both ears. The scope of hearing loss can be mild to severe, or profound. There are a number of causes. Anyone, of any age, can experience it, but it is prevalent among people who are at least 60 years of age.
Fortunately, there are a number of solutions for hearing loss, which include hearing aids. By learning more about symptoms, causes, tests, treatments and prevention of hearing loss, you can get a clearer picture of how it affects your loved ones who you interact with. Statistics on Hearing Loss
Uncommonly known Risks of Hearing Loss Hearing loss not only affects the person who experiences it, but also the people who you interact with. Hearing loss that goes untreated influences your overall health and well-being. As mentioned in previous blog posts, studies have proven that those with hearing loss are more likely to suffer from cognitive decline, depression and social isolation. Individuals with hearing loss tend to have higher medical bills for other health related problems and a greater risk of falling. Those with hearing loss have been associated with higher rates of unemployment and lower wages earned at their jobs, due to the inability of accurately accomplishing tasks. Hearing Loss Symptoms Symptoms of hearing loss are unique for everyone. It depends on the cause of hearing loss, the type of hearing loss, and the severity of the loss. Those with presbycusis (age-related hearing loss) are more likely to experience high-frequency hearing loss. This means that sounds that are higher in pitch, like women’s or children’s voices, might be more difficult to hear. These are general symptoms of hearing loss:
Categories of Hearing Loss There are three primary types of hearing loss:
Hearing Loss Causes There are a number of reasons why hearing loss can occur. Your hearing healthcare provider needs to determine what is causing your hearing loss in order to give you the proper treatment. Risks of Hearing Loss
Uncommon Causes of Hearing Loss
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. We offer a variety of hearing aid styles and brands, for a wide range of hearing loss. 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 new hearing aid fittings, repairs and re-fittings. We ask that you please wait in your car, while wearing your mask, and place your hearing aids in a clean zip lock bag. We will come to your car to get them. If you are having any issues with your hearing aids, or need supplies for your hearing aids, please call us before visiting one of our offices.
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 Have you ever heard the seemingly incessant sounds of a child screaming, thumping music from a teenager’s bedroom, someone who was vacuuming an entire house, or never-ending traffic noises? On a typical day, you might hear a lawnmower, barking dogs, loud sirens, or workers at a construction site.
Harmful Sounds in Your Environment Noise pollution is dangerous because it’s invisible. Most people don’t have a second thought about it. Without the proper precautions, it can be harmful to your hearing health and - in some cases - unavoidable. Define Noise Pollution Noise pollution occurs when there is excess noise that is so loud that it can damage a person’s ability to hear. As a result, their daily activities can be interrupted, whether at home, school, work, or during their downtime. Noise Pollution is a Serious Problem About 30 million Americans are regularly exposed to dangerous levels of noise. This is an increase of 10 million from the previous few years. There are millions across the globe who are affected by noise pollution. Most Common Sources of Noise Pollution This mainly depends on where you live, what your job is, and what your hobbies are. A construction worker who lives in a bustling city and regularly takes the subway is more likely to hear a lot of noise pollution than a bank teller who lives in a quiet neighborhood and typically drives alone. Generally, these are the leading sources of noise pollution.
How does noise pollution affect your health? Do you ever feel annoyed when you hear a car alarm? How about the wailing sound of an emergency siren? It’s normal to hear all of these sounds at once in large cities. It’s stress-inducing, and experiencing recurring stress is not good for your health. The noise can be distracting, harm the health of your hearing, and lead to a poor night’s sleep which affects your ability to function throughout the day. Chronic noise in your environment can lead to sleep deprivation, irritation, noise-induced hearing loss (NIHL), heart disease, harm to your endocrine system, higher risks of diabetes. The following are related to excessive exposure to noise:
Noise Pollution Awareness Noise pollution is just beginning to be made aware of, in addition to how it affects your hearing and overall health. There are some organizations that are working to make the world safer and quieter. Silencity, a New York City-based organization, increases awareness on the dangers of noise pollution and searches for restaurants and public areas where people can have a quiet and safe visit. Pipedown, a UK-based organization, works to eliminate music inside of restaurants and shops. Noise-free America advocates for both political and public awareness on the harmfulness of noise pollution. Protect Your Hearing from Noise Pollution Stronger initiatives to decrease noise pollution are needed in every bustling city. Here are some tips to protect your hearing and health against harmful noise pollution.
If you, or a loved one, are experiencing hearing loss, please contact us at Pure Sound Hearing for a free hearing test and consultation. We offer a vast selection of hearing aid brands and styles for a wide range of hearing loss. We offer a variety of hearing aid brands including HANSATON, Oticon, Phonak, ReSound, Rexton, Signia, Starkey, Unitron and Widex. 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 new hearing aid fittings, repairs, and re-fittings. We ask that you please wait in your car, while wearing your mask, and place your hearing aids in a clean zip lock bag. We will come to your car to get them. 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.  Turner syndrome is a rare genetic disorder that is found in one out of every 2,000 - 4,000 female births. Girls who are not developing at the same pace as their peers and experience recurring ear infections should get the child’s family doctor to test them for Turner syndrome. It is important to get an early diagnosis for proper treatment. Anyone who has this disorder is more prone to higher rates of autoimmune disorders, chronic ear infections, heart, liver, and kidney abnormalities, and hearing loss.
More Insights on Turner Syndrome In the 23 pairs of sex chromosomes within the human body, there are two sex chromosomes that separate men from women. Males have one X and one Y chromosome in their cells, whereas females feature two X chromosomes. Turner syndrome occurs when females do not have all or part of the second X chromosome. This syndrome restricts the female body from its natural growth and maturity. It may be diagnosed during pregnancy, infancy, late pre-teen, or early adolescence. Anyone who is affected by this condition may notice certain physical traits such as down-turning eyelids, short stature, low set and prominent ears, and a small jaw. Generally, a blood test is used in order to diagnose this syndrome. Turner Syndrome and Hearing Health In a study that was published in the Brazilian Journal of Otolaryngology, individuals with Turner syndrome have several issues concerning their hearing. This indicates that they should frequently get their hearing tested. The prevailing problems that occur are chronic ear infections, conductive and sensorineural hearing loss.
If you, or a loved one, are experiencing hearing loss, please contact us at Pure Sound Hearing for a free hearing test and consultation. We offer a variety of hearing aid solutions for your individual needs. 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 new hearing aid fittings, repairs, and re-fittings. We will be offering curbside services. If you are visiting us for a repair, we ask that you please wait in your car, while wearing your mask, and place your hearing aids in a clean zip lock bag. A staff member will come to your car to get them. If you are having any issues with your hearing aids, or an assistive listening device, please contact us before visiting one of our office locations.  The rate of satisfaction among hearing aid users is over 70 percent. Even though they provide people with a better overall quality of life, there is still a stigma around wearing them and misconceptions about how they function. Millions of Americans currently wear them, but there are about 25 million more who can benefit from the technology but choose not to wear them.
There are many reasons for this. Some believe that it makes them look old, while others deny their hearing problems or don’t think hearing aids will help. What are hearing aids? Hearing aids are small electronic devices that may be worn behind your ears or inside your ear canals. Hearing aids have three main parts: the amplifier, microphone, and speaker. Sound travels through the microphone and is transformed into electrical signals which are then transferred to the amplifier. The amplifier boosts the signals’ power and sends them to the ear via the speaker. Modern hearing aids are significantly smaller and have more power than older hearing aid models. With the latest advancements in digital hearing aid technology, speech sounds are easier to distinguish in noisy environments. The majority of modern hearing aids are Bluetooth®-enabled, which means they can connect to your smartphone and other devices that feature Bluetooth®. Are hearing aids helpful for my hearing? This answer depends on the type of hearing loss that you experience. There are two main types:
Presbycusis, or age-related hearing loss, is a subdivision of sensorineural hearing loss. It happens gradually as people age. This is a very common form of hearing loss, and can usually be treated with hearing aids.
What are the important things to look for when selecting a hearing aid? This will be based on your personal lifestyle, degree of hearing loss, and budget. Someone who is very active with travel or athletic activities will probably need a different model of hearing aids than someone who has a more sedentary lifestyle. Your hearing healthcare provider will ask you some questions, which will help you choose the strength of amplification that is needed for you to hear. They will then patiently work with you to ensure that your hearing aids are functioning correctly. What is the length of the adjustment period? Adjusting to hearing aids may take a long time. Based on the severity and how long you waited to get treatment for your hearing loss, the adjustment period is different for everyone. Even though it’s our ears that harness sounds in whatever setting you are in, your brain converts the sounds into something that is discernible. Hearing loss that goes untreated can lead to the auditory section of your brain to atrophy. As a result, it will take much longer for your hearing to improve. Hearing aids need to be worn each day or as recommended, in order to get the most benefits from them. What is the lifespan of a hearing aid? Hearing aids can last for up to three to five years, with proper usage and maintenance. It’s important to not only keep them clean and free of moisture, but it’s a good idea to get a deep cleaning from a professional every now and then. Can hearing aids be returned? Most hearing aid providers, like Pure Sound Hearing, offer a trial period so that you can make sure that you are satisfied with your devices. Talk to your hearing healthcare provider about their policies prior to purchasing. How do I know if I need a hearing aid? It is recommended that you get your hearing tested regularly in order to determine whether you need hearing aids. A comprehensive hearing test will include a hearing assessment, and a general discussion about your lifestyle in order to determine the best treatment and expectations for your hearing health. After completing the hearing test, your hearing healthcare provider will discuss the results and whether hearing aids would be beneficial to you. If you or a loved one, notices changes in the ability to hear or if there is suspected hearing loss, contact us at Pure Sound Hearing 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 new hearing aid fittings, repairs, and re-fittings. If you need a hearing aid repair, we ask that you please wait in your car, while wearing your mask, and place your hearing aids in a clean zip lock bag. We will come to your car to get them. If you are having any issues with your hearing aids, or need supplies for your hearing aids, please call us before visiting one of our offices.  Imagine if you were to wake up one morning and suddenly felt so dizzy, that you fell over and realized you couldn’t stand up. Then you notice that you’ve lost all hearing in one of your ears.
These are symptoms of sudden sensorineural hearing loss (SSNHL), or sudden deafness. It is an unexplained or rapid form of hearing loss, that is not the result of “noise trauma” - like a loud explosion that occurs right by your ear. SSNHL inflames the inner ear, and typically only affects one ear. In some cases, SSNHL may also produce signs of vertigo and tinnitus. Statistics on SSNHL According to the American Academy of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery (AAO-NHS), approximately 66,000 Americans experience SSNHL each year. It can occur at any age, but SSNHL is generally diagnosed in adults between their late 40s to early 50s. This can be a frightening experience for patients. There’s confusion at the sudden inability to hear, but then the symptoms cause them to believe that they are having a life-threatening emergency, like a stroke. What to do if you experience sudden hearing loss If you abruptly have difficulty hearing out of one ear, do not just assume it is clogged due to allergies, or a respiratory infection. Do not assume that it will just get better without any intervention. About half of those who have SSNHL will eventually recover some of their hearing in the affected ear within a week or two. Early diagnosis and treatment will help improve the odds. Always see your primary care physician within 24 to 48 hours. Your doctor will begin by ensuring that there is no physical explanation for your sudden hearing loss (Earwax obstructing the ear canal, fluid in the ear, or a punctured eardrum. An examination of other considerations for possible causes may include trauma to the head, exposure to particular chemotherapy drugs, or neurological diseases such as multiple sclerosis.) For approximately 90 percent of patients, doctors will not be able to narrow down the exact cause. Some research has connected it to metabolic syndromes (a group of ailments, including high blood pressure, blood sugar, and cholesterol, in addition to a larger than average waistline) Get tested by multiple specialists If your physical exam shows no clear reason for your sudden hearing loss, you can visit us at Pure Sound Hearing Aids for a free pure-tone test. This is a test that is conducted by our hearing instrument specialist where you listen for a beeping noise while wearing headphones and signaling when you hear the tone. If the test concludes that you have lost at least 30 decibels of hearing in one ear during three consecutive frequencies, you may have SSNHL. You might be advised to speak with your doctor about treatment options. If your hearing does not improve within three months, you may be fitted for hearing aids. 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 new hearing aid fittings, repairs and re-fittings. We ask that you please wait in your car, while wearing your mask, and place your hearing aids in a clean zip lock bag. We will come to your car to get them. 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.  The progress of research on coronavirus has been swift, but there is still so much that is unknown about the virus. One of the unanswered questions are the possible long-term side-effects for anyone with the disease.
There is more and more information which shows that COVID-19 isn’t just a lung infection. There might be long-term consequences to an infected person’s health, other than their respiratory system. This includes health problems with their cardiovascular, immune and nervous systems. There may be suggestions for health regimens that may appear to be unrelated to COVID-19. For instance, there have been reports of blood clots, digestive issues, headaches and an inflammation appearance of the COVID toe. Research, and past cases, has shown that viruses like the measles, meningitis and mumps may induce hearing loss. COVID-19 can induce peripheral neuropathy - deteriorating the nerves that transmit information to and from the brain. Theoretically, COVID-19 may lead to auditory neuropathy - a hearing disease in which the cochlea continues to function but the transmission along the auditory nerve to the brain is damaged. Individuals who experience auditory neuropathy have trouble hearing if there is too much background noise, like in a bar or restaurant. There has been a connection between auditory neuropathy and Guillain-Barré syndrome - a severe immune disease that impacts the central and peripheral nerves. The coronavirus has also been linked to Guillain-Barré syndrome. Low Evidence, but Preparation is Necessary News reports on hearing loss and COVID-19 have so far been unproven. It is crucial not to diagnose hearing loss where it doesn’t exist, or where it’s coincidental based on the high rates of the virus among the population. The research could reveal the beginning of our understanding of this health issue. It’s important to be prepared in order to act accordingly. A physician in Manchester, England, surveyed COVID-19 patients following their release from the hospital. Three out of 25 patients have reported issues with their hearing. If you, or a loved one, are experiencing hearing loss, please contact us at Pure Sound Hearing for a free hearing test and consultation. We offer a wide variety of hearing aid solutions for your individual needs. These include hearing aids from HANSATON, Oticon, Phonak, ReSound, Rexton, Signia, Starkey, Unitron and Widex. 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 new hearing aid fittings, repairs and re-fittings. If you need a hearing aid repair, we ask that you please wait in your car, while wearing your mask, and place your hearing aids in a clean zip lock bag. We will come to your car to get them. If you are having any issues with your hearing aids, or need supplies for your hearing aids, please call us before visiting one of our offices.  Tinnitus is the perceived sound of incessant buzzing, clicking, hissing, ringing or whistling noises.
Are you one of the millions of people across the globe who experience tinnitus? If so, you are well aware of how it affects every aspect of your daily life. If untreated, this condition can result in depression and stress. According to the American Tinnitus Association, there are millions of Americans who suffer from tinnitus. With a vast number of people who experience these symptoms, it’s important to discredit any false information. Learning about the facts of tinnitus can guide you to find the appropriate treatments that can help to reduce symptoms and improve your overall health. Myth #1: Tinnitus is a disease. Tinnitus is a symptom of a hidden medical condition, NOT a disease. Brain damage, dangerous noise levels, heart disease, or a traumatic brain injury can all cause tinnitus. Tinnitus, which can lead to hearing loss, can be induced by certain medications. There is currently no known cure for tinnitus, but there are treatments that can help reduce the symptoms. Myth #2: Tinnitus is not real. Some might think that the symptoms of tinnitus are imagined, or that it’s just all in their head. There aren’t any tests that will indicate that you have tinnitus, but that doesn’t make the symptoms any less real. There are millions of people across the globe who suffer from mild to severe cases of tinnitus. Myth #3: I can’t do anything about my tinnitus symptoms. There is ongoing research and the treatments are always changing and getting better. A hearing healthcare specialist can provide solutions to help treat your symptoms and make them more manageable. Myth #4: Only people who have hearing loss can get tinnitus. Even though it’s true that people who experience hearing loss can also suffer from tinnitus, a person can also get tinnitus if they do not have hearing loss. Exposure to blaring noises from concerts, an explosion, or loud machinery, may lead to experiencing a brief ringing sensation in the ears. As previously mentioned, there are certain medications that can induce tinnitus. Even if you do not believe that you have hearing loss, it’s still a good idea to get a check up from a hearing healthcare provider. Myth #5: Tinnitus will disappear if I have a healthier diet. Some have made claims that additives and food, like alcohol, caffeine and sodium can make symptoms of tinnitus, worse. Consuming any of these items is typically not the main cause of tinnitus. Your overall health requires a balanced diet, exercise, and adequate sleep. Your tinnitus has to be treated individually. Reducing symptoms of tinnitus MIGHT include changes to your diet and exercise routines, but they will not cure you of your symptoms. Myth #6: Everyone who has tinnitus will end up going deaf. Even though tinnitus and hearing loss usually occur together, they are two separate syndromes. If you have tinnitus, it does not mean that you also have hearing loss. If you have some hearing loss, it does not automatically indicate that you will be completely deaf. Hearing aid devices can simultaneously help to keep your residual hearing intact and help drown out tinnitus symptoms. Myth #7: Hearing aids cannot help relieve tinnitus. The latest advancements in hearing aids, actually can tackle the problems of tinnitus and hearing loss by enhancing external sounds. This masks internal sounds caused by tinnitus. Other methods of tinnitus relief may include better diets, exercise, meditation, and managing stress. Myth #8: Tinnitus is only caused by listening to loud music, or media, through earbuds. Listening to music at dangerous noise levels can lead to tinnitus, but there can be other causes. Tinnitus can affect anyone, but there isn’t always a clear reason. The risks are not eliminated, simply because you don’t regularly listen to loud music/media or listen to these things through earbuds. Myth #9: There’s no harm in having tinnitus. Usually tinnitus is harmless. For some, it can be a sign for an underlying health issue, like acoustic neuroma, heart disease or high blood pressure. Don’t ignore the symptoms. Get checked out for it. For anyone who has tinnitus that is severe, chronic and/or causes distress, it can reduce their quality of life, and affect personal and professional relationships. There have been cases where some people’s tinnitus symptoms have led them to experience suicidal thoughts. If you, or a loved one, are experiencing tinnitus, please contact us at Pure Sound Hearing for a consultation. We offer a wide variety of hearing aid solutions that can be tailored to your specific needs by our hearing instrument specialists. 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 new hearing aid fittings, repairs and re-fittings. If you need hearing aid service, we ask that you please wait in your car, while wearing your mask, and place your hearing aids in a clean zip lock bag. A staff member from our office will come to your car to get them. 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.  Modern life is a fast-paced world that puts us up against many challenges. The stress caused by this velocity can wear you down if you don’t take time out of your day to effectively manage it. Stress can lead to unexpected obstacles, such as a poor night’s rest that can interfere with your ability to accomplish tasks at work.
The Fallout of Stress The human body receives a rush of energy or strength by releasing chemicals into the bloodstream in order to handle stress. This is a normal reaction from our bodies. It supports us through demanding moments, but excessive amounts of stress can deteriorate and weaken your body. Stress isn’t just emotionally tiring, it can lead to additional health problems by diminishing our immune system, cause anxiety attacks, diabetes, headaches, high blood pressure, gastrointestinal complications, migraines, and more. The Connection between Stress and Hearing Loss The body’s response to stress leads to adrenaline being overproduced. This causes a restriction of blood flow to the ears, which is how it affects a person’s ability to hear. Delicate hair cells, or cilia, are found in the inner ear. They need constant blood flow in order to receive the proper amount of oxygen and nutrients. Each day when stress builds up, it may lead to a disruption of the blood flow to the rest of the body. Without steady circulation, these hair cells can become permanently damaged. Hearing loss can occur if an individual becomes overstressed to the point where blood no longer flows to the ears. Stress, Hypertension and Hearing Loss Hypertension is high blood pressure that occurs alongside stress. There are serious consequences of these symptoms that can harm the health of your hearing. High blood pressure weakens blood vessels, which affects the rest of your body - including your ears. If there is damage to the blood vessels in your ears, your hearing can be impaired. Recurring episodes of stress that manifest in the form of hypertension normally cause hearing loss and tinnitus. Hearing loss symptoms that are caused by stress include feelings of fullness, blockage, pain or pressure in the ear(s). Tinnitus and Hearing Loss Over the years studies have associated stress with tinnitus. It is both a cause and a symptom. Tinnitus is the perceived buzzing, hissing or ringing noise in your ears when there is no outside source of the sound. It is normally caused by excessive exposure to loud noises or even some medications. It can linger and then fade away, but it has a tendency to occur when a person is feeling stressed. A study found that 53% of patients who have tinnitus claimed that their symptoms began amid a stressful point of their lives, or became severe during a stressful period. It’s a continuous series of stress that induces tinnitus, which leads to more stress, and that stress leads to more episodes of tinnitus. How You Can Relax If you experience hearing loss that was caused by stress, you first need to lower those levels of stress in order to thwart more damaging effects. Pause everything for a moment. If you begin to feel overwhelmed, rest your mind. You can stop for 20 minutes and simply close your eyes. Engage in regular exercises. Stress impacts your brain as well as your body. If your body feels great, your mind will too. Exercise and other physical activity create endorphins (chemicals in your brain that are essentially used as natural painkillers), and they improve sleep, which lowers stress levels. It only takes 20 minutes of exercise each day to increase your blood flow, which in turn will improve the health of your mind and body. Discuss ways to reduce stress with a friend or healthcare professional. Talking to someone who has experienced what you have, or has credible knowledge, can encourage you to get through it. Mediation. This can help your body and mind focus and relax. You can go out to a quiet place in nature, listen to calming music or a mediation podcast. Participate in your favorite activities. Take out time each day to do something that you enjoy. It can be as simple as listening to your favorite music or reading a book. If you, or a loved one, are experiencing hearing loss, and/or tinnitus, please contact us at Pure Sound Hearing Aids for a free consultation. We offer a variety of hearing aid solutions that can be customized for your particular needs. 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 new hearing aid fittings, repairs and re-fittings. If you need a hearing aid repair, we ask that you please wait in your car, while wearing your mask, and place your hearing aids in a clean zip lock bag. One of our staff members will come to your car to get them. If you are having any issues with your hearing aids, or need supplies for your hearing aids, please call us before visiting one of our offices.  Just about every surfer has shared stories about the injuries they got while surfing gnarly waves. It may have been a head bunt with their board, a hand cut on a fin, or even a dislocated joint from a huge wave. While these are rare injuries, they do help paint a more interesting narrative.
Surfer’s Ear: How it happens and who can get it This blog has frequently discussed swimmer's ear, but there’s a syndrome of surfing that is more prevalent, yet rarely acknowledged. It could actually be more dangerous. This syndrome is known as surfer’s ear (exostosis). Surfer’s ear occurs when the ear(s) become(s) irritated from cold water. This normally happens as a result of long exposure to cold water. Surfers, old and young, can experience it. What happens is, over time, the ear canal becomes irritated and as a result bone will start to grow in that area. This causes the canal to become more and more narrow, which leads to hearing loss. Ultimately, the bone growth becomes very obvious because a person with this problem can experience complete hearing loss. The only treatment for this issue is cutting off or shaving the bone growth. This procedure would need a recovery period of six to eight weeks. Surfer’s ear doesn’t just lead to hearing loss, but the bone growths will trap water which leads to frequent infections. This leads to high risks for people who spend a lot of time in the water to surf. Wetsuits are providing surfers with the opportunity to go into the water almost year round, raising the risks for surfers of all ages. About one in three surfers experience this problem, and if left untreated it can lead to pain and severe hearing loss. Are there Treatments for Surfer’s Ear? The only real cure for surfer’s ear is surgery. It’s best to take preventative measures, like wearing earplugs, prior to going into the water. You can also try these Swedish company's earplugs that are specially designed for surfers. Sound waves can be heard, while the real waves stay out. If you, or a loved one, are experiencing hearing loss, for any reason, please contact us at Pure Sound Hearing Aids for a free hearing test and consultation. We offer a variety of hearing aid brands including HANSATON, Oticon, Phonak, ReSound, Rexton, Signia, Starkey, Unitron and Widex. 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 new hearing aid fittings, repairs and re-fittings. If you need a hearing aid repair, we ask that you please wait in your car, while wearing your mask, and place your hearing aids in a clean zip lock bag. We will come to your car to get them. If you are having any issues with your hearing aids, or need supplies for your hearing aids, please call us before visiting one of our offices.  This Fourth of July will probably look different than past celebrations. It’s still important to take extra safety precautions, especially if you have hearing loss. Whether you need to maintain social distancing between yourself, friends and family, wear a face mask, or wear hearing protection, there are measures that can be taken to care for your overall health.
In preparation for your festivities, here are some facts about noise and healthy hearing tips to consider. Fireworks are at the center of the Fourth of July. Please be aware that damage to your hearing can happen due to excessive noise exposure. It only takes one short burst of loud noise to possibly cause noise-induced hearing loss (NIHL). Fireworks can generate the same amount of noise that a jet engine produces. That’s somewhere between 125-155 decibels (dB). As mentioned in previous blog posts, 85 dB is the threshold of noise that a human can tolerate before it causes hearing damage. Being in close proximity to fireworks can instantly cause hearing loss. Faint noises: 30 - 40 dB. These include sounds like a whisper or a quiet room. Moderate noises: 50 - 60 dB. These include sounds such as moderate rainfall and normal conversations. Very loud noises: 70 - 90 dB. These include vacuum cleaners, alarm clocks, city traffic, hair/hand dryers, motorcycles, truck traffic. Extremely loud noises: 100 - 130 dB. These include noises from power tools, a lawnmower, a snowmobile, or rock concerts. Painful noises: 140 dB or more. These include noises from fireworks or gunshots. When sounds are heard the stereocilia (delicate hair cells) located in our inner ear vibrate. This creates nerve signals that are interpreted by the brain as sound. It is possible to experience too many vibrations in the stereocilia. Exposure to loud noises can harm to these hair cells, and lead to sensorineural hearing loss and tinnitus. The first cells that become permanently damaged are the ones that vibrate the fastest. These are the ones that provide clearer higher-frequency sounds, such as chirping birds or the sound of children and some women speaking. You can still enjoy fireworks without risking your hearing health. It’s best to see a professional fireworks display, and maintain an appropriate distance to enjoy the visual aspects. If you are not sure how loud the fireworks will be, or won’t be able to enjoy the show at a distance, carry some earplugs with you to wear. Your earplugs need to closely fit your ear canals and seal off as much noise as possible in order to sufficiently block out excessive noises. Read the instructions on your earplug packaging for proper usage. Earplugs are an inexpensive and simple way to protect your ears. Here are some warning signs if you are exposed to dangerous noises, and experience hearing loss:
If you are experiencing hearing loss that was caused by any loud noises, like fireworks, or another reason, please contact us at Pure Sound Hearing Aids for a free hearing test and consultation. Our hearing instrument specialists will go over the best treatment options with you. 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 new hearing aid fittings, repairs and re-fittings. If you need a hearing aid repair, we ask that you please wait in your car, while wearing your mask, and place your hearing aids in a clean zip lock bag. We will come to your car to get them. If you are having any issues with your hearing aids, or need supplies for your hearing aids, please call us before visiting one of our offices.  Are you unable to hear as well as you usually do? There are many factors that can contribute to hearing loss, including age-related hearing loss, noise-induced hearing loss, or even viral infections.
Your hearing loss could be temporary or permanent, based on how it was caused. If You Experienced Sudden Hearing Loss, Get Treated Immediately. If you have quickly, or suddenly, lost your hearing in one or both ears - and you cannot narrow it down to any clear causes - seek medical attention as soon as possible. You might have harmful inflammation that can be treated with steroids. If you wait too long, or do not seek medical treatment, the hearing loss could become permanent. Do You Need to Seek Medical Treatment as Soon as Possible? Follow this checklist as a guide for knowing whether you need immediate medical treatment:
If you responded “No” to each of these questions, it might be sudden sensorineural hearing loss (SSHL), which immediately needs to be checked out by a medical professional. Frequent Causes of Temporary Hearing Loss Overall, temporary hearing loss does not just abruptly occur. It happens slowly in a span of days or weeks by the time you notice it. Temporary hearing loss could be caused by a blockage located in your ear canal, or a similar health-related condition. Here are some possible cause: An Ear Infection In some cases, a lousy cold can lead to an ear infection. This could then lead to muffled hearing. This particular condition usually occurs in children, but it can happen at any age. Ear infections tend to heal on their own, but you should see your healthcare provider if the infection needs to be treated with an antibiotic. Excess Earwax The tiny hairs and glands located inside your inner ear create cerumen, A.K.A. earwax. Your earwax should naturally fall out of your ears, or by gently washing your ears. In many cases, it will build up and obstruct your ear canals. When this occurs, your ears may feel plugged, you might experience tinnitus, or some loss in your hearing. If the wax cannot gently be removed, with a warm washcloth or an earwax removal kit, consult a hearing healthcare provider or your doctor. Do not use sharp objects or cotton swabs to remove the wax. These items may push the earwax deeper into the canal which could puncture the eardrum. Vigorous Exercises or Stress Did you know that certain exercise routines can induce hearing loss or tinnitus? Overexerting yourself well past your personal fitness level could result in temporary hearing loss. Usually in these instances, your hearing should go back to normal within a few hours. See your healthcare professional if the symptoms linger. Severe stress can also lead to issues with hearing and tinnitus. Blaring Noises It is very common to temporarily lose your sense of hearing or suffer from tinnitus after being exposed to loud noise, whether it’s from a rock concert or if you operate a loud power tool. This type of hearing loss is known as noise-induced hearing loss (NIHL). Your hearing will probably go back to normal after the concert or after you finish using the power tool, but it’s always a good idea to wear earplugs or earmuffs as a precaution. It’s crucial that you do everything possible to prevent hearing damage. Repeated and extensive exposure to loud noises can result in permanent hearing loss. What are the Prevailing causes of Permanent Hearing Loss?
If you believe that your ability to hear has changed, contact us at Pure Sound Hearing Aids for a free hearing test and consultation. Our hearing instrument specialists can go over the best treatment options with you. 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 new hearing aid fittings, repairs and re-fittings. If you need a hearing aid repair, we ask that you please wait in your car, while wearing your mask, and place your hearing aids in a clean zip lock bag. We will come to your car to get them. If you are having any issues with your hearing aids, or need supplies for your hearing aids, please call us before visiting one of our offices.  Fluctuating sensorineural hearing loss can appear alongside a number of disorders, such as immune-mediated inner ear disease, Ménière's disease, and sudden sensorineural hearing loss (SSHL). It’s a difficult condition to manage because of the different fields of diagnoses and researchers’ understanding of underlying causes are mainly theoretical. As a result, there are very few treatment options.
Causes and Related Disorders of Fluctuating Sensorineural Hearing Loss Autoimmune inner ear disease (AIED) is a rare disease that causes rapid and progressive bilateral sensorineural hearing loss (SNHL) that fluctuates for weeks or months. The progression of this hearing loss occurs too quickly, therefore it is not considered to be caused by aging but it is also too slow to be considered sudden sensorineural hearing loss (SSNHL). AIED can manifest as part of other autoimmune-mediated syndromes, such as lupus or rheumatoid arthritis, or as part of Cogan’s syndrome, which includes inflammatory ocular symptoms (conjunctivitis, glaucoma, or uveitis) along with hearing loss and vestibular symptoms. It’s been recently discovered that autoinflammatory disorders play a factor in fluctuating hearing loss. Theories have been discussed on the underlying process of this disease which cover circulating immune complexes to conditioned immune cell-mediated damage in AIED vs. dysfunction of the body’s existing immune defense system or the innate immunity. The reason why proper diagnostic measurements for these diseases are difficult to grasp is because it needs audiologic proof of fluctuating hearing loss and a positive response to immunosuppression. SSNHL is a broad term that is used to describe hearing loss that occurs within a brief period of time - under 72 hours. Most instances are considered unilateral with no defined cause. There are three theories on the underlying cause of SSNHL:
For people who are smokers, have a history of smoking, or have hearing loss that was the result of vigorous activity and may cause trauma to the cochlea, the first two theories are possible. In other people who do not have these risk factors, the viral theory - which suggests that severe infections or reactivation causes inflammation and membrane damage - may be a possibility. This theory was backed up by clinical studies that indicated more levels of specific viral antibodies, in vitro animal research, and temporal bone biopsies that revealed atrophy occurring in the inner ear. The causes can be classified under:
Ménière's disease is another class of disorders that are characterized by variables of the following symptoms:
Ménière's disease is defined as a condition with two or more impulsive episodes of vertigo that endures for more than 20 minutes, but less than 12 hours, an audiogram that indicates low - to medium - frequency sensorineural hearing loss in one ear at any point, and fluctuating aural symptoms like aural fullness, hearing loss, tinnitus. It usually occurs in one ear, but it may begin in one ear and then affect the other ear. It rarely starts by being found in both ears at the same time. Before the final diagnosis of Ménière's disease is made, other possible causes, such as benign paroxysmal positional vertigo or vestibular migraine, need to be dismissed. Contributing Factors
Studies of Epidemiology indicate that some cases of Ménière's disease could be caused by an irregular mutation or an autosomal (any chromosome that is not a sex chromosome) dominant inheritance. Allergy-linked Ménière's disease is induced through environmental or food allergies. The theory is that systemic hypersensitivity to allergens could result in inflammation to the inner ear, which would then cause Ménière's disease. There are many medical and surgical treatments for vestibular and balance problems, fluctuating hearing loss, but they are often inadequate and do not help prevent inevitable hearing loss. Hearing aids could be the best solution to this problem. If you, or a loved one, are experiencing fluctuating hearing loss, tinnitus or aural fullness, or episodic vertigo 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 new hearing aid fittings, repairs and re-fittings. If you need a hearing aid repair, we ask that you please wait in your car, while wearing your mask, and place your hearing aids in a clean zip lock bag. We will come to your car to get them. If you are having any issues with your hearing aids, or need supplies for your hearing aids, please call us before visiting one of our offices.  Today, newborns are given a hearing screening before they leave the hospital. If a child is deaf or diagnosed with hearing loss, parents can be guided by hospital staff and healthcare professionals to get the proper means of communication and resources for treatment.
In some cases, being diagnosed with hearing loss is a precursor to autism spectrum disorder (ASD). The Gallaudet Research Institute has estimated that 40 percent of children who have hearing loss also have an additional disability. The pervasiveness of ASD among children who are deaf or hard of hearing is 1 in 59. What is autism? ASD is defined as an intricate developmental disorder that becomes present during early childhood and influences a child’s ability to communicate. Children who have ASD do not grow out of this disorder, but similar to hearing loss, getting an early diagnosis can lead to early intervention. This will greatly improve a child’s quality of life. Ways to determine whether your child has more than hearing loss Here are some signs to look for:
Autism and its association with hearing loss Autism impacts children differently, so it’s crucial to recognize how this disorder affects their capacity to hear and comprehend sounds. In some instances, a child may not have any hearing loss. In other cases, a child might have mild, moderate, or profound hearing loss that could be treated with hearing aids. For most children, the nerves that transfer sound to the brain may not function properly. This is known as auditory processing disorder (APD). This makes it difficult for the child to comprehend what others are saying to them. Children with autism might have issues with other sensory experiences. This is known as multi-sensory processing disorder. Autism and auditory processing disorders Autism can affect how a child processes sound. As a result, a child with autism might struggle with learning language. Some things that may help them manage these issues include:
Autistic children could be sensitive to some sounds (hyperacusis), due to difficulties processing those sounds, but continue to have hearing loss in other sound ranges. For example, high-pitched noises can irritate a child, but that child isn’t able to hear low-pitched sounds clearly. This can make it difficult to determine whether the problem is caused by hearing loss, or not. Find out which sounds irritate your child. Some kids can wear noise-cancelling earmuffs or can find a quiet area that they can go to. In other instances, some children are under-reactive. They do not appropriately respond to sounds in their environment. Misdiagnosing hearing loss as autism There have been some cases where a child’s hearing loss is undiagnosed and a problem with communication emerges. This child is typically suspected to have autism. Here’s a resource that can help you distinguish the differences. Seeking Help Each child is affected by autism differently. There is still so much more research needed to understand this disorder. If you suspect that your child is experiencing hearing loss, please contact us at Pure Sound Hearing Aids. We offer a free hearing test and consultation to discuss the best options for you and your child. 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 new hearing aid fittings, repairs and re-fittings. If you need a hearing aid repair, we ask that you please wait in your car, while wearing your mask, and place your hearing aids in a clean zip lock bag. We will come to your car to get them. If you are having any issues with your hearing aids, or need supplies for your hearing aids, please call us before visiting one of our offices.  Phonak's CROS B-R are helpful for those with single-sided deafness. With so many selections of hearing aid models and brands that have different features, it might be tough to choose the ones that work best for you. Pure Sound is here to guide you through these decisions, and program the devices to suit your personal hearing needs.
A hearing aid is mainly composed of an amplifier, a microphone and a speaker. Advanced technology has made modern hearing aids smaller or nearly invisible to others, by resting deep inside the ear canal. A smaller hearing aid is not always the right option for everyone. Here’s a basic guideline for selecting hearing aids that fit with your specific needs and lifestyle. Hearing Aid Brands Oticon The Oticon hearing aids are known to enhance speech comprehension, improve memory, and reduce fatigue when you struggle to listen. At Pure Sound we offer the Oticon’s Alta 2, Oticon’s Dynamo, Oticon's Opn and the Oticon’s Siya. Phonak Phonak’s hearing aids are one of the most popular brands. Not only do they feature an array of styles, including behind-the-ear (BTE), CROS and receiver-in-the-canal (RIC) but they also utilize great quality Bluetooth connection to other frequently used devices. Starkey Starkey is a leader in amazing innovations to the hearing aid world. Their latest devices validate this. Starkey’s Livio AI is not simply a well-crafted hearing aid, but it can also translate 27 languages, features a fall detection, measures your heart rate/keeps track of how often you engage in physical activities/exercises, connects with the Amazon Alexa, features Voice-to-Text Transcription, and more. Widex Widex hearing aid devices have been celebrated for their excellent quality in sound. After proper programming, they will automatically adjust to the noise levels in your environment. This model is available in the BTE (behind-the-ear) and ITE (in-the-ear) styles. Here at Pure Sound we offer the Widex Custom hearing aid, Widex Dream, Widex Evoke and Widex Super. Selecting the Right Hearing Aids Get the best hearing aids based on their structure, style, and compatibility with your hearing needs, comfort of the fit and lifestyle. BTE (Behind-The-Ear): This style is subtle in visibility. The body (the largest part of the device that rests behind the ear and holds the battery, amplifier, microphone, wires, and other components) is connected to the earpiece (dome) with a thin transparent tube. CIC (Completely-In-Canal): This hearing device is placed inside the ear canal, making it invisible to others. ITC (In-The-Canal): This device is almost invisible from an outsider’s perspective. It can only be seen if you look closely. RITE (Receiver-In-The-Ear): A clear tube curves over the ear and goes into the ear canal, making them nearly invisible. Mini-RITEs are available. You might initially choose the CIC style because of the small size and lack of visibility. You don’t need a hidden style to prevent embarrassment or possible social stigma. The other hearing aids can pass as earbuds, which are so commonly used by everyone these days that nobody really notices what you are wearing in your ears. The buttons on the BTE styles are easier to switch on or off, as opposed to the smaller or in-the-ear models. This is useful when you need to make adjustments while wearing them. Users of the BTE styles tend to notice that the device stays in place while wearing them. 8 Things to Take into Consideration Type of Hearing Loss Your specific type of hearing loss and how severe the loss is, will be factored into the hearing aid type and style. Comfort Adapting to new hearing aids takes time and patience, especially if the device is shaped differently than your previous hearing aids. Make sure that the device that you choose feels comfortable to wear in the long-term. They won’t be useful to you if you’re not wearing them and getting your brain used to hearing sounds again. Size As previously mentioned, even though the smallest size may be your first choice, it would be more sensible if you got a hearing aid that you could easily handle, adjust various control options and insert batteries or domes. Lifestyle Choose your hearing aids based on your personal lifestyle. How and where do you usually spend your time? What type of activities do you engage in? Do you practice sports or play a musical instrument? Are you frequently in crowds or do you talk to people one-on-one? Your hearing aid provider will be familiar with the latest models and can give you insight on their patients’ experiences. Source of Power Prevent future worries or frustrations by investing in a device that easily recharges and/or has batteries that can easily be switched out. Reducing Feedback Noise Sometimes hearing aids create a loud whistling sound. That’s known as feedback noise. This indicates that the devices are not properly fit for your ears, or the space that you occupy at the time is not the ideal area to be, like when using a phone. Discuss these issues with your hearing instrument specialist. They will work with you to find a solution to this problem. Warranty Hearing aids are an investment that’s worth taking care of. They improve your overall health, communication and cognitive function. Get a trusted brand that comes with a good warranty. Service Centers If you frequently travel, you may want to select a well-known brand that can be repaired or replaced anywhere. If you, or a loved one, are experiencing hearing loss and would like to learn more about hearing aids that would suit your personal needs, 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 new hearing aid fittings, repairs and re-fittings. We ask that you please wait in your car, while wearing your mask, and place your hearing aids in a clean zip lock bag. We will come to your car to get them. If you are having any issues with your hearing aids, or need supplies for your hearing aids, please call us before visiting one of our offices.  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.  Normally, you don’t think or worry about your hearing - until something affects it.
Basic Facts Those who suffer from hearing loss tend to feel isolated from others. This can cause anxiety and depression. When you first experience hearing loss, it can affect the higher pitched sounds. When you reach middle age, the upper range of your hearing abilities can decline between 12,000 to 14,000 Hz. A human’s audible range depends on how high, low, and loud the sound is. We use Hertz (Hz) to measure the pitch of sounds, and decibels (dB) to measure how loud the sound can reach. When it comes to the pitch of sound, a human’s hearing abilities begin at 20Hz and end at 20,0000Hz. Our hearing is the most sensitive between the 2,000 and 5,000Hz range. The safest levels of sound fall between 0 to 85dB. Over the course of time, any sounds that pass the 85dB threshold can harm your hearing health. Hearing: 20 Uncommon Facts
If you, or a loved one, have been experiencing hearing loss, 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 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 problems with your hearing aids, or need supplies for your hearing aids, please call us before visiting 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.  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.  Studies on hearing loss and brain function
Young people should get their hearing regularly checked, in addition to their other general health concerns. A research team from Ohio State University monitored the brain function of individuals between the ages of 18 and 41. Each participant listened to sentences that became more and more complex. The team was trying to measure whether the human brain needed to work harder to understand complex sentences. They discovered that young adults who had subtle hearing loss were changing the function of their brain in manners that were normally seen in older adults. This was possibly an early sign of dementia. Rising evidence has shown a relationship between dementia and hearing loss. Young people should regularly get their hearing tested in order to intervene and treat their hearing loss as early as possible. Get a hearing test It is recommended that adults of any age should get a hearing test as part of their annual health checkup. If you are noticing hearing loss or changes in your hearing abilities, please contact us at Pure Sound Hearing Aids for a free hearing test and consultation. We offer a variety of hearing solutions for a wide range of hearing loss. |
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