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How to Unblock Your Ears When You Have a Cold

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How to Unblock Your Ears When You Have a Cold

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<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">An average adult catches a cold two to three times a year. This particular illness is common. Often cold makes you suffer pain and discomfort. Symptoms of a cold include fever, runny nose, sneezing, and coughing. One common cold symptom that gets less attention is the ears.</span></p>
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<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">&nbsp;If you have a cold and your ears are blocked, there are a few things that you can do to help ease your symptoms. Of course, this assumes there are no signs of an ear infection. If you have signs of infection, such as pain, pressure, fever, or fluid from your ears, see your doctor as soon as possible.</span></p>
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<p><strong>How do the ears get blocked?</strong></p>
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<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Eustachian tubes function to maintain nasal and ear pressure. During a cold, Eustachian tubes have improper pressure balance, making your ears feel blocked. Blockage of Eustachian tubes results in blocked ears. Clogged ears can affect your hearing and cause discomfort. Blocked ears may be temporary; however, in most cases, ears remain blocked for several days.</span></p>
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<p><strong>How to Unblock Your Ears When You Have a Cold</strong></p>
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<p><strong>1- Blow your nostril gently to prevent fluid overflow in your ear&nbsp;&nbsp;</strong></p>
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<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">The more you produce fluid in your nose and sinuses, the more you&rsquo;ll have to blown to reduce the chance of it going into your ears.&nbsp;</span></p>
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<p><strong>2- A</strong><span style="font-weight: 400;">&nbsp;</span><strong>humidifier can reduce discomfort</strong></p>
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<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Use a humidifier to prevent the surrounding air from getting too dry. It will relax the nasal passages and prevent further inflammation. Hence, it helps in reducing discomfort.</span></p>
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<p><strong>3- More fluid intake reduces ear wall pressure</strong></p>
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<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">More fluid intake helps your nasal mucus stay hydrated. Therefore, drink a lot of water. Water can help you thin out nasal mucus, which becomes easy for your body to drain. It releases pressure from ear walls.</span></p>
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<p><strong>4- Over-the-counter provides quick relief</strong></p>
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<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Staying hydrated is very important. However, this may not be much helpful in several cases. Therefore, nasal decongestants and nasal sprays can provide quick relief.&nbsp;</span></p>
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<p><a href="http://www.attune.com.au/"><span style="font-weight: 400;">Attune</span></a><span style="font-weight: 400;">&nbsp;is a leading independent Australian hearing healthcare provider. Highly qualified Audiologists at Attune provide in-depth&nbsp;</span><a href="http://www.attune.com.au/"><span style="font-weight: 400;">hearing assessments for all ages</span></a><span style="font-weight: 400;">&nbsp;and best&nbsp;</span><a href="http://www.attune.com.au/"><span style="font-weight: 400;">balance management</span></a><span style="font-weight: 400;">.&nbsp;&nbsp;</span></p>

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An audiologist is a health care professional who identifies, evaluates, and manages hearing disorders, balance, and other hearing-related issues.

The general duties of an audiologist include:

Examining patients with hearing or balance-related problems

choose, adjust and distribute hearing aids and other listening gadgets

offer and fit protective devices that will help protect one's hearing

they educate patients on the impact of noise

assist in research on prevention, identification, and management of hearing loss and other hearing-related issues, including balance

When to see an audiologist?

Several signs indicate it is time to visit an audiologist. The signs are related to hearing loss and could indicate that you are experiencing hearing loss problems. The signs include:

1. You are experiencing ringing in the ears with no external sound present. The sounds come from inside the body, and no one else around you seems to be hearing them.

2. Turning the volume of the radio, television or other electronics higher than necessary.

3. You have difficulty understanding speech when there is background noise, and you tend to tell people to repeat themselves frequently.

4. You cannot hear soft sounds, and it is becoming more and more difficult to listen to women and children speak than men.

5. You avoid social gatherings and public speaking due to hearing

6. You have a lot of earwax

7. You are experiencing sudden hearing loss

8. You are due for a checkup.

Conditions that an audiologist can help you with include:

Hearing disability

Amplification

Auditory processing disorders

Tinnitus

Hyperacusis and Misophonia

Balance disorders

Going to the doctor's office is scary sometimes, especially if you are experiencing signs related to hearing loss. However, you must see an audiologist to ensure that your signs are not associated with hearing loss; if they are, the specialist will advise you on what to do.

If you think it’s time you saw an audiologist, book a hearing test at Attune. Our qualified audiologists perform comprehensive hearing tests. Visit our website to book an appointment.

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Cochlear implants and hearing aids both provide the same function. However, they are still quite different hearing devices. So, what’s the difference? Cochlear implants are surgically implanted into the ear and cannot be removed. Hearing aids, on the other hand, are removable.

Let's dive into the details.

Hearing Aid

First of all, unlike cochlear implants, hearing aids are removable. They are small electronic devices designed to amplify sound going into the ear. They can be taken in and out of the ear canal by the user. They work best for both children and adults who have mild to moderate hearing loss.

The device has a microphone, a computer chip that amplifies and processes sound, a speaker, and battery. The amplified sound is sent directly to the inner ear for translation to electrical impulses transmitted to the brain.

Hearing aids are classified into two categories; in-the-ear and behind-the-ear models. The models are available in all shapes, styles, and sizes.

Cochlear Implant

Cochlear implants are similar to hearing aids but are surgically implanted by a medical professional. The complex medical devices bypass the damaged portion of the inner ear to stimulate the auditory nerve directly. The device does not restore hearing; instead, it provides a sensation of sound for those who are deaf or have profound hearing loss.

Cochlear implants have two parts; internal and external.

The external part comprises a microphone, speech processor and transmitter. It is positioned outside the ear.

The internal part consists of a receiver implanted inside the skin behind the ear with one or more electrodes implanted deep into the inner ear.

A wire links the microphone to the speech processor, which is positioned outside the ear over the receiver that is in the skin. A magnet connects the external and internal parts.

Sound gathers by the microphone, and the speech processor is transmitted to the receiver that converts it to electric pulses and dispatches the electrodes. The electrodes stimulate the auditory nerve; the brain receives a signal to process the sound.

Before an implant surgery is done, the patient must undergo an audiological and psychological evaluation, medical exam and imaging studies. Patients and their loved ones undergo counselling about the device, its performance and limitations.

After the surgical site has healed, the recipient returns to have the outer part fitted, and the device

activated and programmed.

Which One Is Right for You?

Only a medical professional can evaluate your hearing and determine which hearing device is suitable for you. If you are having trouble with your hearing, schedule an appointment to have a hearing test with one of our audiologists at Attune. Visit our website to learn more about hearing aids.

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You are set to see the doctor tomorrow or next week for your hearing test. You are panicking because you have never had one done before. There’s no need to panic, as hearing tests are relatively straightforward. While they are not complicated at all, here are some pointers on how to prepare for a test.

List of Medication and Medical Records

The audiologist will take your medical history before examining your ears. This is because some illnesses can negatively impact your hearing. The examination will go smoothly if you have all your medical records, including medication and key medical events. This ensures you don't forget anything during the appointment where you may find it hard to think on the spot. Therefore, the audiologist has more information to use when diagnosing your hearing problems.

Clean Your Ears

Use a warm washcloth to clean your ears. Wax may be the reason you do not hear properly. Clean your ears at least two days before your appointment. Avoid using cotton swabs or inserting anything as it can easily damage your ear canal.

Avoid Loud Noises

Loud noises may damage your hearing temporarily before the appointment. As part of the hearing test, the audiologist determines the minimum threshold to hear pure tones and conversation. More often than not, this comes when someone has been exposed to loud noises in the hours leading up to their appointment. When this happens, it affects the way you hear. As a result, it may seem like your hearing is a lot worse than it is, messing up the whole test. If your ears are recovering from loud noise, the results will not be accurate. Avoid loud noise for 12 hours before the appointment.

Don’t Go Sick

Some illnesses such as cold can cause fluids in your ears. As the audiologist carries out the test, they are bound to find the liquid, affecting your results and causing inaccuracies.

Grab a Friend

If you are anxious and stressed about the test, a friendly face will help you calm down. Also, you might need a person you have regular conversations with to determine if you have problems with hearing conversations.

Hearing Aids

Sometimes, you can be sure you have a problem with hearing. It is okay to research hearing aids to have an idea of what they are and how they can be beneficial to you if they are recommended after the test.

Preparing for the test will help ease anxiety and put you at ease with the process. Your hearing test results must come out accurate. Hence avoid loud noises or anything that may tamper with your hearing before the appointment.

If you are looking to book a hearing test, contact Attune hearing clinic for professional audiologist care. Visit our website for more details.

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Are you worried that your child will suffer from hearing loss? It is a concern for many parents as they want their children to grow up with perfect hearing. So, here are some ways that you can protect your child’s hearing:

1. Use hearing protection on your child in noisy environments

Loud noise can lead to noise-induced hearing loss, so using hearing protection such as earmuffs on your child when they are exposed to loud noises or noisy areas (concerts, sports events) is one of the best ways to protect their hearing.

1. Monitor the volume of electronic devices

Children cannot self-regulate the volume on their devices. Sometimes they even enjoy turning it way up. You must check the volume on their devices regularly. It should not exceed a certain volume level. The volume is too loud if you can hear sound from their headphones or earbuds when they are wearing them.

1. Loud noise limitation

Limit the time your child spends in a loud and noisy environment. The more time they spend in loud noise, the more damage it will cause. This also applies when it comes to their electronic devices. Limit the time they are exposed to loud noise.

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1.  Hearing protection habit

We are creatures of habit, therefore, to help protect your child’s hearing, create good hearing habits. Instruct your child to wear hearing protection consistently and enforce hearing protection rules from the start. Normalise wearing earplugs or earmuffs in noisy places to encourage hearing health.

1. Learn about earbuds and headphones

Learn all the facts about the earbuds and headphones your children use. People believe that headphones do not cause as much damage as earbuds. That is false. Both hearing devices can cause damage when loud music is played. Noise-cancelling headphones are effective when you need to eliminate noise.

1. Be an example

Show your child that you also protect your ears by turning the TV and radio volume to a safe volume. Children follow what their parents do. You cannot ask your child to turn down the volume while you turn up yours.

1. Sound meter

You can install a sound meter app that monitors environmental sounds. They can help you gauge if the noise around your child is too loud. Use the apps to measure the TV and sound machines in different areas your child visits.

1. Educate your child on hearing health

Your child needs to learn about protecting their ears. When you protect your hearing at an early age, you avoid hearing problems in the future.

1. Hearing test

You can reach out to an audiologist and have your child's hearing checked. Whether it is to obtain a baseline hearing test or if you have a hearing concern, an audiologist will also give you tips on how to protect your child's hearing.

At Attune, we provide hearing tests conducted by hearing professionals. You can book an appointment today or learn more about our custom earplugs to help protect your child’s hearing.

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How are hearing impairment and cardiovascular disease linked?

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How are hearing impairment and cardiovascular disease linked?

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Were you attentive to the link between vessel (heart) health and hearing? Having a healthy heart and sensible blood flow will do wonders for your hearing, and heart issues and poor blood flow can cause hearing loss. However, is that possible? We'll have a glance at how we have a tendency to hear, what heart disease is, how heart disease and hearing loss are linked, what reasonable hearing loss happens and what the signs are, and what is done to ensure a healthy heart and healthy hearing.

How do we hear?

The human ear is created from 3 main elements. These 3 parts embody the external organ, the center ear, and also the internal ear.

The outer ear

This includes the pinna (external/visible ear) and the ear canal.

The middle ear

This includes the eardrum, auditory tube (linking the middle ear and back of the nose/throat), and three small bones (malleus, incus, and stirrup - ossicles).

The inner ear

This includes the hearing organ (cochlea) and the balance organ. The tube has thousands of little hair cells necessary for hearing.

These three elements work along for us to hear.

Sound waves within the air are collected by the pinna and sent to the tissue layer via the ear canal. The eardrum begins to move, inflicting the ossicles to move. The ossicles move on the tube and cause fluid in the cochlea (inner ear) to move. This bends the hair cells in the cochlea and electrical impulses are created. The hearing nerve carries these impulses to the brain and sound is perceived as a problem in either of those parts might end in hearing loss.

However, is cardiovascular disease and hearing impairment related? within the inner ear is the hearing organ, the tube. The cochlea is lined with thousands of little hair cells that are liable for changing sound waves into electrical signals which are sent to the brain via the hearing nerve for sound to be ‘heard’. the foremost and important systems in the body deem the blood provide of the heart, and also the ear is not any different. The traditional functioning of the inner ear depends on sensible blood flow, and any changes to the current flow will disrupt the inner ear and have an effect on hearing.

cardiovascular disease affects the flow of blood to the remainder of the body. For example, if the arteries become clogged the blood flow is affected. This implies that there's not an adequate quantity of blood flow or gas to the hair cells within the internal ear. Once this happens, the hair cells will become broken or vanish and permanent hearing impairment can occur as these hair cells don't grow back. The hearing nerve, that carries the messages to the brain, might also be affected. Blood carries oxygen and if there is a reduced flow of blood, there's less gas reaching these necessary structures. This may injure the nerves. On the opposite hand, a healthy heart and sensible blood flow impacts your hearing in a very positive way.

What can be done?

As mentioned before, there are a variety of preventable risk factors for cardiovascular disease as well as smoking, high levels of stress, obesity, high pressure and cholesterol, unhealthy diet, and diabetes. you'll be able to limit your risk of developing heart disease by exercising the preventable risk factors through healthy modus vivendi choices. By doing this you'll guarantee a healthy heart and sensible blood flow which is able to also end in positive effects on your hearing. Some healthy diet changes or choices include:

Reducing alcohol intake.

Quitting smoking.

uptake a healthy and balanced diet.

partaking in exercise and physical activity.

Reducing stress levels and taking care of your mental health.

Losing weight,

Sleeping well.

Keeping an eye on pressure and cholesterol.

watching blood glucose levels.

A variety of individuals suffer from heart disease. cardiovascular disease can even have an effect on hearing by limiting the blood flow and oxygen to the small hair cells within the cochlea. Once this happens, a permanent hearing impairment can occur. There are a variety of decisions you'll be able to take to scale back the danger of obtaining cardiovascular disease, as well as not smoking, being healthy, and being active. If you've got heart disease or are in danger of getting heart disease, contact your local audiologist these days for a hearing test. Attune has audiologists and information for all hearing levels.

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Hearing loss is a slow process, with deterioration taking place over years or decades. In contrast to our eyesight, we get used to listening to much less of the sound around us and usually compensate for the lack of hearing without even noticing. Having an recognition of the primary symptoms of hearing loss can then be vital in figuring out if you, or your loved one, need to seek help.

1. Asking for Repeats:

Provided that the person you are speaking with has your attention, asking for a repeat can be a sign of hearing issues. To reiterate, asking a person to repeat themselves is pretty common if the individual is new or doesn’t always speak with you. New voices and speech patterns are commonly misunderstood. However, if the person (or yourself) you are speaking with communicates with you regularly, you are in a quiet environment, they are focused and are still asking for you to repeat yourself, this may be a sign of hearing loss.

1. Speech sounding unclear

As we age and/or are exposed to occupational and every-day noise our high frequency listening deteriorates quicker than our low-frequency listening. High-frequency sounds, or phonemes, relay clarity. So, if a person has high-frequency hearing loss they will find that it sounds as though humans are mumbling and noises are muffled, which in turn, could indicate hearing loss.

1. Withdrawal from social conditions

Another sign of listening to loss may be a person's choice to withdraw from social occasions wherein they had previously actively attended. Avoiding social situations may cause social isolation, that could have an extreme effect on a person's mental wellness and possibly increase the threat of dementia. While studies are ongoing in this area, researchers have observed a connection between hearing loss and dementia, with social isolation being a key contributor.

1. Asking for higher volume when watching TV

Another indicator of hearing loss is a request for higher volume while watching TV together with your partner or family. If you notice that the volume they are listening at is at a higher than tolerable level for you (one with adequate hearing capabilities) this could be a sign of hearing issues.

1. Speaking loudly

Loud speech may be a predictor of hearing loss. This is due to the fact our hearing has a tendency to become worse slowly. When someone is fitted with hearing aids it is common for them to first comment on the sound and clarity of their own voice. This is an area that we may not notice we compensate for. Thus, when you notice someone talking above the common level, this could be an indicator of hearing loss.

If you or someone you know is experiencing some of the above, hearing loss may be the problem. If these symptoms and signs are worsening, you may find it helpful to bring them up with your GP and request a hearing test. Otherwise your GP can refer you to an audiologist to properly diagnose and treat your hearing loss. Having hearing loss no longer implies you need hearing aids, however, there are many technologies and treatment options Audiologists can suggest and provide for your level of hearing loss and situation. contact your local audiologist for a hearing test. Attune has audiologists and information for all hearing levels.

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One of the biggest roadblocks to successful hearing aid uptake is commonly relating to maintenance of the devices. There are many alternative brands that are frequently worked in Australia, such as Signia, Phonak, Unitron, Oticon, GN Resound. Independent hearing aid suppliers can usually sell and fit all brands.

Suppliers can have different packages starting from no aftercare to unlimited access to appointments. It’s important to regularly monitor your hearing and maintain your hearing aids, which may be simply achieved with an annual review appointment.

1. Annual review appointments

When discussing hearing aid choices, most suppliers define a service package that's enclosed with the devices. Your audiologist should see you annually for a review appointment lasting about thirty minutes. throughout this appointment your audiologist should:

Raise you whether or not you're feeling your hearing has remained stable or deteriorated since your last appointment.

They will then check your ear canals for wax before conducting a brief screening to spot any changes in your hearing.

Following the hearing screening your audiologist will clean and check your hearing aids before connecting them to the programming software.

Finally, your audiologist will reset your hearing aids to the results from the screening to optimise the hearing aid performance.

1. Servicing of hearing aids

Hearing aid servicing will usually be performed in-clinic, however typically the hearing aids have to be compelled to be sent to the manufacturer. Specialists in-clinic, or in-house, service usually involves an intensive clean and check of the hearing aids. Manufacturer servicing may embrace replacement of electronics, replacement of housing, or an intensive clean and check of the interior elements not accessible to the audiologist. Most makers provide a 3-year repair guarantee with the purchasing of hearing aids. It's recommended to have them repaired annually.

1. Adjustments/Programming

Typically hearing aids would require changes to the programming or adjustments between annual review check-ups. This might include user acclimatising to the gain settings, or it would relate to their expertise in an exceedingly specific environment. Open communication is encouraged, with several hearing clinics frequently contacting patients. That way if issues are known a hearing aid adjustment appointment is often scheduled.

1. Upgrading your technology

Hearing aid makers can typically unharness a replacement hearing aid platform or technology biennially, this poses the question: once ought to I upgrade my hearing aids?

Hearing aids are expected to last for five years beneath the government's Hearing Services Program (HSP) before refitting is permitted. Once the hearing aids are 5 years old your hearing clinic should contact the consumer to see if they need to schedule a briefing to trial newer technology. With excellent care and regular maintenance hearing aids ought to last a minimum of five years, however typically newer technology might yield a more robust performance in tougher listening environments, and an appointment with an audiologist can enable you to see for yourself if new hearing aids perform better than your current hearing aids.

1. What are you able to do at home?

In addition to hardcopy hearing aid manuals, most makers give on-line video tutorials and FAQ pages on their websites. The audiologist should conjointly reinforce any specific expectations they may have of the user with respect to hearing aid cleanup tasks. One of the common causes of hearing aid malfunction is wax. An easy means of staying on top of wax may be requesting that your general practitioner check your ears for wax at every visit.

Understanding the aftercare advice provided and available to you - and what's expected of you - is important! Suppliers are willing to supply you with the aftercare that suits your lifestyle. Communication with your audiologist and hearing clinic is one of the keys to adequate hearing aid use! contact your local audiologist for a hearing test. Attune has audiologists and information for all hearing levels.

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Can You Wear Hearing Aids While Exercising?

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Can You Wear Hearing Aids While Exercising?

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Hearing aids can be used for most sports such as yoga, gymnastics, golf, jogging, or dancing. Hearing aids can improve your training experience in many ways. When doing water sports such as swimming or surfing, it may be best to remove the headphones to prevent the water from damaging the internal components. This only applies if you have hearing aids that are specifically designed for this purpose. In 2012, the Hear-the-World Foundation carried out a study that found that 70 percent of hearing aid users enjoy sports activities more with their hearing aids. 47 percent of users said that exercising is more fun with the headphones you trust.

Some Reasons If You Want To Exercise With Headphones Include:

Increased Security, Communication And Connectivity: Headphones Help Keep You Safe When you exercise with headphones, you become much more aware of your surroundings.

Hearing Aids Help You Stay Connected: In addition, many modern hearing aids come with wireless options that allow you to connect hearing aids and cell phones via Bluetooth so that hearing aid wearers can stream music or incoming calls and messages straight to their ears. So if you enjoy listening to your favorite podcasts or audio books or motivational music while exercising, the headphones will make your workout even more enjoyable.

How to Secure Your Hearing Aids While Exercising?

Another common problem that can arise when exercising with hearing aids: How do you hold them in your ear and keep them from falling out? During intense exercises such as running, wrestling, and dancing that involve a lot of active movement, the hearing aids can slip out of the ear. To combat this problem, you have several options based on the type of hearing aid you have. For example, if you have behind-the-ear hearing aids (BTE), you can wear a headband that covers the hearing aids to keep them in place or tight-fitting caps so the hearing aids are more securely anchored on your head . Alternatively, you can invest in a headphone clip or lanyard to keep your hearing aids from falling out of your ear.This headphone clip is attached to your headphones and "clips" to your clothing.

If you’re looking to get your hearing tested, look no further than Attune Hearing. Australia’s only independent accredited hearing healthcare provider. Attune’s qualified audiologists conduct comprehensive hearing tests to help you on your hearing journey. Head to their website or contact the team today.

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Habits that can harm your hearing health

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Habits that can harm your hearing health

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Overview

Hearing is not something that a lot of people think of until it becomes a problem and many people have never had a hearing test. A lot of people think that hearing loss is associated with older age and they don’t realise that there are many more risks to developing a hearing loss other than old age. People also don’t know what to do about it, they will ignore it and it gets progressively worse. Sometimes people don’t realise that they do have a hearing problem and may be surprised when a hearing test indicates it. However, how does one get their hearing checked? Is there a place I can get a free hearing test near me? Understanding hearing loss a little better, as well as recognizing habits that can harm your hearing health is very important and help in knowing when it might be time to get the hearing test done.

1. Environmental (noise)

A significant cause of hearing loss is due to noise exposure. This is often due to a long-term loud noise exposure that can gradually occur over a period of time.   This hearing loss may occur when working in an environment of loud noise exposure, such as working with heavy machinery, or it may occur instantaneously when exposed to a single very loud noise incident in a workplace. Prolonged noise exposure in an environment that is measured to be over 85 dB (decibels) can be damaging to your hearing, with the resulting damage to the hair cells in the inner hair being irreversible.   Some workplaces are set up to get hearing tests routinely done, however this is not always the case. Likewise noisy hobbies such as recreational shooting, motor racing and motorbikes can also be damaging to hearing when adequate hearing protection is not worn. Most of us at some time in our lives went to a night club, with the place packed with people and the music blaring, only to find our ears ringing when we get home. Regular exposure to live/loud concerts and bands is not good for hearing.   However many people don’t think to get a hearing test done to check. It is also not good to listen to your favorite music from phones/ipods at a loud level through headphones/earphones. If someone is sitting near you and can clearly hear the music that you are listening to, it is probably at an unsafe listening level.   It is important to realise that noise induced hearing loss is a permanent hearing loss which will be unable to be improved by a medical doctor. Treatment would involve hearing aids and assistive listening devices. But how does one know that they may not be hearing optimally and whether they have any hearing damage? Hearing tests are available at many places and even a free hearing test will be able to determine whether a hearing loss is present.

2. Health

It is generally known that unhealthy diets along with poor exercise can be linked to increased risk of cardiovascular disease as well as increasing the risk of developing diabetes and obesity. However many people don’t know that these bad habits and resulting health issues can also be linked to permanent hearing loss. Who would think that a hearing test should be undertaken when these conditions are present! Cardiovascular disease impacts on the heart and blood vessels, however these symptoms can also affect the area of the body where the hearing occurs. This is thought to be due to a poor circulation or trauma impacting on the blood flow to the inner ear area which will lead to permanent damage in this area. Interestingly, the type of hearing loss you have and the shape of the hearing loss that is shown in a hearing test, may aid in identifying early risk factors for these health issues. But one might ask, what can I do about checking my hearing, is there a hearing place near me? Many clinics will offer a free hearing test which will help identify an early hearing loss. Further hearing testing can determine the type of hearing loss and may assist with other markers to indicate potential health concerns that need to be addressed with your doctor.

Social habits such as smoking and drinking are also detrimental to one’s hearing. The nicotine in cigarettes can impact on the blood flow throughout the body and similar to cardiovascular disease, can potentially affect the blood vessels in the inner ear and damage the inner hair cells resulting in a permanent hearing loss. Excessive alcohol consumption is also shown to be linked to hearing loss. Scientific evidence suggests that chronic alcohol abuse can damage parts of the brain that cognitively process information, and hence lead to difficulties with the ability to hear and understand sounds. Should concerns be present in hearing and processing information, it is important that you speak to your doctor about whether a test of hearing is indicated and look at getting a hearing test done. By visiting a local hearing clinic, you can initially undertake a free hearing test, even a free screening, that can help determine any abnormal result and suggest what can be done about it and whether a more advanced hearing test is needed.

3. Put buds in ears

You may have heard the old saying that you shouldn’t put anything smaller than your elbow into your ear! Well there is good reasoning behind that saying, as by sticking things in your ear, it puts you at risk of irritating or damaging your ear canal or eardrum (by accidently putting a hole in it). Therefore, despite it being a common practice, it is not advisable to stick Q Tips or other items into your ear to remove the wax or clean the ear, as these items can do serious damage to your ears and hearing. The Qtip is also likely to end up pushing the wax deeper into your ear! Wax in ears is a normal thing to have and helps protect the ear canal, so it shouldn’t be considered a bad thing. Wax will naturally work its way out of your ear over time, however, should it be a concern, or should it be something that is impacting on your ability to hear, using wax drops or getting the wax removed by a specialist/doctor is advisable.   It can even be checked at a hearing clinic where a specialist can check your ears with a special torch to see how it looks and determine whether it does need to be removed. They will often offer a free hearing test to check how your hearing is while you are there.

4. Pretending your hearing difficulties are not there

One of the biggest dangers to your hearing health is ignoring the fact that you do have a hearing loss.   Some people are in denial and think that they can ignore it and just get everyone to just speak louder to them or have the television on at a louder volume.   Many people will scoff at the idea of getting a hearing test done or will put off the thought of getting a hearing test. However, what you may not know is that if someone has a decent hearing loss, it has been shown that if you don’t “use it you lose it”. It has been shown that hearing loss can be associated with cognitive decline and dementia and that if you aren’t hearing sounds well, that your brain can forget what it is like to hear properly. The longer you put off getting a hearing test, and ignore the fact that you aren’t hearing well, the more likely this is to happen. Hearing loss can also impact on your ability to socialize and connect with others. It is therefore important that if you are struggling, to get a hearing test done and see what your options may be to hear better. The audiologist who does the hearing test will be able to discuss all your options for you. It is important to find a hearing clinic that is client focused, where they can give you valued service and care during the test of hearing. Even if just starting with a free hearing test, the result can give you an idea of what your hearing is like and the audiologist can have a discussion on what options are available and what further hearing testing may be needed.

5. Summary

In summary, there are many factors that can affect your hearing health outside of old age. It is important to be informed about these things for long term hearing health, as well as know what to do if you feel a hearing loss is present. Getting a hearing test is important, whether it initially be a free hearing test, or a full diagnostic hearing test. Contact Attune Hearing by going to the website or calling 1300 736 702 to book an appointment with a qualified Audiologists.

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How does hearing loss impact the quality of life in older adults?

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How does hearing loss impact the quality of life in older adults?

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Help with hearing loss

Think about your daily life, each part of it is shaped by communication with others. We are constantly sharing information with those around us, making it extremely important. A big part of communication involves hearing. With age, we experience a gradual drop in hearing which affects our ability to communicate with others in the world around us. If we do not get help with our hearing loss, this lack of communication can then result in a poorer quality of life. It is important that older adults seek help with their hearing loss. In most cases, hearing loss can be helped with hearing aids.

Increase in life expectancy

In recent times, life expectancy has been on the rise. This means that people are living longer than they used to. This also means that there are more older adults in the population. These older adults are likely to experience hearing loss related to ageing. There is a larger population with this type of hearing loss in older age and it has never been more important for them to get help with their hearing loss. Being aware of the effect that this loss has on their quality of life is important. Because they are living longer, it is important for older adults to get help with their hearing loss to ensure that they have the best quality of life possible. One thing that can help with hearing loss is hearing aids.

Hearing loss in older adults

Natural aging causes permanent changes in the inner ear (cochlea) leading to a gradual and equal drop in hearing in both ears over time. The hearing loss worsens with time. This hearing loss is called presbycusis. Presbycusis mostly affects the higher pitch sounds in the beginning. Fine speech sounds that make up the beginnings and ends of words like ‘s’, ‘sh’, and ‘f’s are high in pitch. These sounds provide speech clarity and so hearing loss in this region results in issues with clarity of speech if you do not get help with your hearing loss. People with this hearing loss may be aware that someone is speaking but not quite make out what they are saying, mishear what they are saying, or ask for repeats. Women’s and children’s voices are also high in pitch and so people with this hearing loss often report issues hearing females and children. Because it happens gradually, people may not be aware that they have a hearing loss and so do not actively seek help with their hearing loss. However, people around them may have commented on their hearing. A common complaint from significant others is related to the TV volume being too loud. There is help available for people with hearing loss. Hearing loss can be helped with hearing aids which can allow you to hear these sounds again.

Signs of hearing loss in older adults

People with hearing loss which has developed gradually over time may not realise the extent of their hearing problem and not want to get help with their hearing loss. This is because they have developed coping strategies or have not been hearing well for so long that they don’t remember what it is like to have normal hearing. There are many signs of hearing loss. It is important to be aware of early signs so that you can seek help with your hearing loss early on for the best outcomes to occur. Some common signs include:

People sounding like they are ‘mumbling’.

Trouble hearing high pitch sounds (e.g. women’s and children’s voices).

Mishearing things.

Asking for repeats.

Turning up the TV louder than others.

Difficulty in noise.

Sounds in the ears (e.g. ringing or buzzing).

If you or those around you have noticed that you experience any of the signs above, it is possible that you may have a hearing loss. It is important to get your hearing tested (as with any other health check) to determine whether there is a hearing loss present. In most cases hearing aids are an option and can and do help with hearing loss and make it easier to hear during daily communication. The goal of amplification is to reduce the difficulties mentioned above.

Auditory deprivation & the importance of getting help with your hearing loss

Older adults are usually hesitant about going ahead with hearing aids for many reasons and often put off getting help with their hearing loss until years later. Early intervention with hearing aids is although very important as a thing called auditory deprivation can occur. When there is a hearing loss present that is left untreated, there are changes that occur in the brain. A part of the brain is no longer being stimulated by sound. The longer the brain remains unstimulated the less efficient it is in processing sound and some of the pathways if not ‘exercised’ will be lost. Think of the brain as a muscle, if you do not exercise your muscles they will waste away. So when you go to use those muscles again, it will be difficult. The ear, brain, and hearing are similar. So when you finally do go ahead with hearing aids the pathways are no longer working optimally and the brain will not be processing sound as efficiently as it once did. Therefore, you may not get the best outcomes with hearing aids and hearing may be difficult even when aided. It is important that you take action early and get your hearing tested to have the best chance of getting help with your hearing loss.

How does hearing loss impact quality of life & what can help with hearing loss?

Because speech and hearing are important to sharing information during daily communication, hearing loss will have an impact on how we communicate with others. This then can impact your quality of life or wellbeing if you do not get help with your hearing loss.

Although hearing loss is more widely understood and accepted today, a stigma around hearing loss remains as it is invisible. Older people may feel they do not want to get help with their hearing loss as hearing loss is something that affects ‘old’ people and they do not want to be identified in this way. This means they delay getting hearing aids to help with their hearing loss. This then leads to:

Social isolation/withdrawal - They may avoid social outings with family and friends.

Anxiety and depression – Loss of hearing can lead to anxiety in social situations as the person may fear that they have misheard important information.

Fractured relationships – Relationships with significant others can also suffer as significant others may be tired of repeating themselves and arguments can occur.

Low self-esteem/confidence – People with hearing loss may develop issues with self-esteem/confidence as they are embarrassed that they do not hear well.

You can get help with your hearing loss. Hearing loss can be helped with hearing aids. By treating the hearing loss you will be less likely to experience the issues mentioned above and you will have an improved quality of life.

In summary, people are living longer and so there is a large population of older adults. A natural part of ageing is hearing loss. There are a number of signs of hearing loss to be aware of. It is important to get help with your hearing loss early on as auditory deprivation may occur. Getting help with your hearing loss by getting fitted with hearing aids with a qualified Audiologist early will ensure the best outcomes. If left untreated, hearing loss can significantly reduce the quality of life of older adults. Hearing aids can help with hearing loss and improve quality of life. It is important that you contact your nearest local Audiologist at Attune Hearing for an assessment today and get help with your hearing loss.

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Driving requires a lot of concentration and an ability to process both visual and auditory cues promptly to make quick decisions. This raises the question- can people with hearing loss drive?

Why do I need to hear when driving?

Drivers need to be able to ear horns, emergency sirens, warning alarms and even changes in road or engine noises which may indicate a problem. It is important to consider these aspects when considering if it is safe for a person with a hearing loss to drive. Because hearing loss is often a gradual process, a person may not be aware of the sounds they are missing. Doing an online hearing test is a great place to start to see if there is a potential problem that should be investigated further.

What if I do an online hearing test and it shows I have a hearing loss?

It is not illegal to drive a private vehicle with a hearing loss but that doesn’t mean that it is safe. It has been reported that older adults with hearing loss didn’t do as well in driving tests when faced with distractions compared with their peers with no hearing loss. This suggests that the additional effort needed to hear by people with hearing loss makes it more challenging to focus on the tasks required to navigate the road.

If you have done an online test and it shows there is a hearing loss, or if already know you have a hearing loss, then make sure you have regular hearing tests with an audiologist. If you are a driver of a private vehicle, hearing loss does not mean you can’t drive a car, but it is important to be aware that you may not hear important warning signals around you. In addition, the extra effort required trying to hear your surroundings if you have a hearing loss can be exhausting and could be putting you and other people around you at risk.

How to be a safe driver if you have a hearing loss

1. See an audiologist

Talking to your audiologist about hearing aids which will make it easier to hear your surroundings is an excellent idea. You may have heard of people who have hearing aids that “live in a drawer” but it is important to work with an audiologist to find the right solution based on your needs and hearing test results. Hearing aid technology is constantly improving and there is a solution out there for everyone. But it does require learning and adaptation by the hearing aid wearer and it takes time to learn how to use hearing aids. Often follow-up appointments and fine-tuning by the audiologist are required to get them just right. Even once you have hearing aids working properly it is important to have regular review appointments with your audiologist to recheck your hearing and optimise your hearing aids.

2. Consider assistive devices

There may be other assistive technologies such as sensors and visual warning devices and/or physical equipment such as mirrors that enhance rear vision that may be considered depending on your hearing loss.

3. Have your vision checked

The need for good eyesight when driving is obvious. But if you have hearing problems you are likely compensating by relying more on your other senses (like vision), so it is important to have regular vision checks and use glasses if recommended.

4. Reduce distractions

Distractions when driving can be dangerous for any driver but can be especially dangerous if you have a hearing loss. Try to minimise phone use and if essential ensure you have correct Bluetooth connections in place. Talk to your audiologist about hearing aids with Bluetooth connections that can pair with your phone and would make it safer to take a call if it can’t be avoided. A Bluetooth connection between the navigation/GPS on your phone and your hearing aids can also let you hear navigation directions clearly through your hearing aids while driving.

Reducing background noise when driving is also crucial for everyone but again is especially important if you have hearing loss. Excess road, engine and wind noise through having the windows open or excessively loud music can create distractions and make it harder to concentrate. If you have hearing aids you may be able to use an accessory such as a remote microphone with the passenger/s in your car so you can hear them without straining, turning your head or them having to yell.

Commercial vehicle drivers

Unlike for private drivers there are certain standards to determine if a commercial vehicle driver can hold an unconditional licence. This is because commercial vehicle crashes may present a more severe threat to passengers and other road users. Crashes involving commercial vehicles can also present increased risks of threats such as chemical spills and fire. If you are a commercial vehicle driver you will need to have a hearing test with an audiologist to assess whether you meet the criteria to holding an unconditional commercial driver’s licence. Commercial vehicle drivers are not allowed to hold an unconditional drivers licence if their hearing loss is greater than or equal to 40 dB in the better ear (averaged over 0.5, 1, 2 and 3 kHz). A conditional driver’s licence may be considered by the licensing authority subject to periodic review and taking into account the nature of the driving task and information provided by an audiologist or ear, nose and throat specialist as to whether the standard is met with a hearing aid/s.

Conclusion

The importance of hearing when driving is not to be underestimated for both the driver’s safety and the safety of those around them. It is a good idea to take an online hearing test to see if you have a hearing loss and, if there is a hearing loss present, make sure you see an audiologist to have a comprehensive hearing test and investigate your options to ensure you are driving safely. If you’re concerned about your hearing, please contact Attune Hearing on 1300 736702 to book a hearing test with one of our qualified audiologists. Alternatively, visit one of Attune’s clinics Australia-wide.

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Development of hearing

Our sense of hearing starts developing as early as the second month of pregnancy. By 18 weeks of pregnancy, babies are thought to hear their very first sounds. Babies in the womb at around week 25 or 26 have been shown to respond to voices and noise.  In their fluid filled environment though the sounds are likely to be muffled and therefore responses to sound are difficult to measure.

Once the baby is born, it is difficult to tell sometimes if they are hearing however hearing tests are done to determine any difficulties. In the first couple of months babies’ responses are very subtle and difficult to observe. They may startle to loud sounds, wake to some sounds, stir in their sleep or show other body responses such as eye widening or body tensing. The sounds they respond to are usually sudden loud or sharp sounds such as a door banging, someone sneezing or a toddler squealing. Babies of this age are unable to turn to their names and rarely respond to softer sounds.

By 4-6 months of age babies begin to develop the ability to turn towards the direction of sound but only if it is on the same level of the ear. They can be soothed from crying by the sound of a voice and their eyes can often shift towards the source of a sound. Over 6-month-old babies can turn well to the direction of sound and will listen when you speak to them. They will begin to understand some simple words and will begin to babble. More complex sounds such as musical toys and TV jingles will be more interesting to them.

By 10-12 months old your child should be responding to sounds from any direction. They should be able to turn to their name and recognise familiar sounds around them. They should be babbling and starting to form words such as mum, dad and no.

What signs should I look for if I suspect my child has a hearing loss?

If you suspect your child has a hearing loss the best thing you can do is contact an Audiologist to perform a hearing test. It is advised that you do not try assessing the child’s hearing yourself as this may lead to unnecessary anxiety. You can observe your child’s responsiveness to sound which may be useful information for the Audiologist.

●      Are they responding to a variety of sounds at home? Observe your child at different times during the day. Look for signs that they can hear a favourite TV jingle from another room or the crackle of you opening a biscuit packet from a distance. Ensure the child is not too distracted or tired or that the house is not too noisy.

●      Is their speech developing appropriately? This is often the first obvious sign of late onset hearing loss or temporary hearing loss. Discuss with your maternal and child health nurse, GP or speech pathologist to determine if there is a speech delay.

●      Do they have recurrent ear infections, throat infections or colds? This is the most common reason for hearing loss in children under the age of 7. Fluid or mucous builds up in the normally air-filled space in the middle ear and results in a temporary hearing loss similar to listening under water. This is often temporary and can be fixed surgically if it is a persistent issue. Your child would need to see an Ear, Nose and Throat doctor for management.

●      Is there a history of hearing loss in the family from a young age? There are certain hearing losses that are hereditary. These hearing losses often are diagnosed in childhood and can progress to worsening hearing as an adult. Genetic tests are currently available for some of the genes which are known to cause hearing loss.

●      Did my baby have a newborn hearing test? In all states in Australia, newborn hearing screening tests are offered to babies before discharge from hospital. If your baby was born at home or overseas, they may have missed the screen. You can contact your closest Audiology department or ask your GP for details of where you can arrange a hearing test.

●      Could there be other reasons my child is not responding to sound? Sometimes children with developmental delays or physical delays may not show clear responses to sound. Children with Autism Spectrum Disorder often show little interest in environmental sounds. Extremely premature babies may be delayed with their responsiveness and babies or children with physical disabilities may not be able to turn their heads in response to sound.

Types of hearing loss in children

Conductive hearing loss

This is the most common hearing loss in children and is a result of a build-up of fluid or mucous in the middle ear space. This occurs when there is a blockage in the eustachian tube which connects the nose and the ear. This eustachian tube usually acts to equalise the air pressure in the middle ear cavity. The eustachian tube can become blocked with a cold or as a result of enlarged tonsils and/or adenoids which sit at the base of the nose. If the eustachian tube stays blocked for long enough the mucous can build up in the middle ear cavity and can remain there until the eustachian tube is able to clear the blockage.

In many cases the child presents with hearing loss as a result of this fluid in the ear. It can be in one or both ears and can fluctuate depending on how blocked the ears are. The degree of hearing loss can range from a very mild dulling of sound to a more serious deficit resulting in speech sounds being reduced to a whisper. The hearing loss is generally temporary with the hearing nerve remaining intact. The fluid can resolve on its own or may need medical treatment, some even require minor surgery with grommets to aerate the middle ears. If the conductive hearing loss is due to structural abnormality of the middle ear, in some cases it may not be surgically corrected. Special hearing aids are suitable for these children to access hearing to develop speech and language.

Conductive hearing loss is most common in younger children but can happen at any age. Tell-tale signs of conductive hearing loss could include:

●      Pulling/tugging/banging ears

●      Recurrent ear infections

●      Sensitivity to sudden loud sounds (eg vacuum, hand dryer)

●      Constant colds/snotty nose/snoring

●      Slower than expected speech development

●      Balance issues

●      Learning delays in school aged children

Sensorineural hearing loss

Less common than conductive hearing loss but current statistics suggest 1 in 1000 children in Australia have a sensorineural hearing loss. These hearing losses are defined as losses due to an impairment in the nerve of hearing or cochlea. Hearing loss can be in one ear or both ears and can vary in degree from very mild to no hearing at all. The cause of sensorineural hearing loss is not always known. The most common causes are genetics, ototoxic medications administered as newborns, illnesses such as meningitis, maternal CMV, jaundice, chromosomal abnormalities and extreme prematurity. Children can be born with the sensorineural hearing loss or it can be acquired later in childhood.

Mixed hearing loss

A mixed hearing loss is where a child has a combination of a conductive hearing loss and a sensorineural hearing loss. Often the conductive hearing loss is temporary and can resolve or be medically treated. In some cases, particularly if the child has a syndrome involving structural abnormalities such the child has hearing loss at the nerve but also some conductive loss due to a malformation of the middle ear.

Auditory Neuropathy Spectrum Disorder

ANSD is a very rare condition where the cochlea shows response to sound but the signal to the brain becomes disrupted and this results in a hearing impairment. This nerve disruption or dyssynchrony is more common in very premature babies, those with high jaundice at birth and in some genetic conditions.

How can I check if my child has a hearing loss?

Audiologists are university trained specialists in hearing assessment. You are best to see a Paediatric Audiologist especially if your child is under 7 years of age. Different age groups require different modes of assessment and sometimes several techniques are used to obtain an accurate result. All Audiologists should perform middle ear function tests and some form of hearing assessment to gain a good understanding of your child’s hearing and middle ear status. They may refer your child for further medical advice depending on the result.

What happens if my child has a hearing loss?

If a child has been diagnosed with a hearing loss it will depend on the degree and type of hearing loss as to how the hearing loss is managed. If the hearing loss is medically treatable the Audiologist will refer you to an Ear, Nose and Throat specialist to determine if grommet surgery or similar is warranted. If the hearing loss is more permanent, then the impact on the child’s development will be determined. If it is thought that the hearing loss is likely to delay a child’s speech development or learning, then hearing aid fitting may be recommended. In cases where children have severe or profound hearing losses or ANSD, cochlear implantation may be an option.

In all cases the development of speech and language is of the utmost importance to the Audiologist. Their job is to accurately diagnose and manage hearing losses in children. Speak to your GP, maternal and child health nurse or paediatrician if you are unsure of Audiological services in your area. Attune Hearing is Australia’s only accredited hearing healthcare provider, offering hearing services to those who need help on their hearing journey.

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Hearing and Hearing Loss

Hearing is a key sense. One on which we rely on for safety, socialisation, learning and work, a sense of community and for recreation. It’s important to maintain your hearing.

What is hearing loss? Can your hearing be restored, or once it’s damaged have you lost it for good? Because hearing is so important, whether there is a cure for loss of hearing is a very common question.

The following describes why we get hearing loss and how it can be resolved.

The Hearing Pathway

There are a number of parts to the hearing pathway to consider when thinking about what counts as a hearing loss and what counts as a permanent hearing loss. We have our outer ear, middle ear, and inner ear.

The importance of a test

It’s important to fully test the hearing pathway because of all the parts to diagnose where the hearing loss is coming from. Depending on where the hearing loss is coming from will tell the audiologist if it can be treated or not.

Types of More Temporary Hearing Losses

You can have types of hearing loss which can be quite temporary – maybe relating to a buildup of wax or debris like excess skin cell growth, or a buildup of pressure of fluid behind the ear drums. Commonly, if the trouble is buildup, it can be removed by an audiologist.

There are also types of hearing loss which can be hereditary.  run in families. Sometimes the bones that help the eardrum to function start to calcify. In some instances, this type of hearing loss can be assisted with surgery.

As another type of hearing loss, if there’s a build-up of pressure or fluid behind the eardrum, an ENT specialist could surgically insert an equalising tube – a grommet - in the eardrum.

Permanent Hearing Loss

For most adults however, a hearing loss tends to come from a part further on in the hearing pathway – the inner ear. This kind of hearing loss is usually permanent. In these more permanent hearing loss cases, technology is our go-to to help with hearing loss.

Hearing Aids

A hearing aid is a very discreet piece of technology that sits in the ear to amplify the surrounding noise to help the individual hear more clearly. A hearing aid should be chosen with the person’s needs in mind – not only their hearing needs, but maybe their preference for the look of the hearing device and their comfort levels with wearing a device.

Hearing aids can be set up to capture it all, or be a bit more selective in what gets turned up in the person’s listening environment. They are also specifically adjusted for a wearer, so that the pitches they’re having difficulty with are amplified.

Hearing aids not only help with offering assistance for a hearing loss, but there’s also research to suggest they assist with lessening the chance of falls, promoting more socialisation and cognitive health.

Cochlear Implant

Another option for some, in terms of helping hearing loss with technology, is a cochlear implant. It is a surgical implant, which works by bypassing the damaged cochlea (a part of the inner ear system), stimulating the nerves that send impulses to the brain, where we process sound.

If you or someone you know has a hearing loss

If you think you have a hearing loss, the best thing to do is have a full diagnostic test. Attune Hearing have many specialists and services to assist you and your loved ones with their hearing loss needs. Contact Attune to book and appointment.

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A cochlear implant can be the answer for many people who find that despite their well fitted hearing aids they are struggling to hear in daily life. Some may have also been added in wireless accessories such as the Phonak Select/Pen system which works by enabling wireless streaming of phone calls, conversations from one or multiple speakers, and TV programs.

Hearing difficulties

Read the following list – if you answer yes to any or all of the questions, it might be time to head to your nearest Attune clinic to get a comprehensive hearing test.

Are you relying more on lip reading than your hearing aids?

Do you need people to repeat themselves often?

Have you stopped using the telephone?

Is speech hard to understand even when talking 1:1?

are you feeling increasingly isolated due to not hearing?

Do you have difficulty communicating in groups?

Is your job in jeopardy due to hearing loss?

Can you no longer hear the birds, your children / grandchildren's voices, the microwave beep?

Is TV hard to follow even with captions?

Do you feel unsafe in the world because you can't hear?

cannot hear at all out of one ear?

Quality of life
A cochlear implant can help you when your hearing difficulties become so much that they affect the quality of your life. You may have noticed or others may comment that you seem depressed and avoid joining in on social activities such as family BBQ's or going out to dinner with friends. Your personal relationship with your partner may be strained as they struggle to communicate with you in daily life, and you withdraw as it becomes ever more frustrating. Friends you had may have stopped calling round or asking you out for a meal/drink at the local club, or a round of golf, or a game of footy as they know that you can't hear them and that you don't join in any more. You avoid going out anyway as it makes you so tired trying to hear conversations and join in with the laughs at the right moment. It has been years since you were able to hear well on the phone and so you stop making calls and just text or email instead. This is hard if you have family who live away or overseas and would like to hear your voice. Using the Phonak Roger Select/Pen system has helped a lot but you can still feel embarrassed that you have to carry a few devices around with you.

Current hearing option/s

Wearing hearing aids is all you have known for a number of years now. From your very first pair of hearing aids to your current Phonak Audeo hearing aids, you have been a regular wearer putting them both on every day from early morning to night time. The Audiologist you see has reviewed your hearing every 12mths and checked your hearing test results to see whether any adjustments are needed to your Phonak aids. Your hearing aids have also been reviewed every 12mths and sent back to Phonak as needed for service and repairs. Still you struggle with hearing speech clearly and just can't have any background noise as it competes too much with conversation. Getting a Phonak Select/Pen system did help you to hear a bit more in meetings and groups with not too many people. Adding this Phonak wireless accessory has been a good supplement to your Phonak hearing aids. However you know that more is needed and that there are other hearing options out there. You have read about cochlear implants and wonder would a cochlear implant help you?
Cochlear implant

You discuss with your Audiologist about the possibility of a cochlear implant. They agree that a cochlear implant may help you to hear better as your Phonak hearing aids despite being top level technology still have limitations given your severe degree of hearing loss. The Audiologist provides you with some basic information about cochlear implants (what they look like, how they work, how you would still use a hearing aid in the other ear, and be able to use your Phonak Roger Select/Pen system with the cochlear implant processor and the remaining Phonak hearing aid). They recommend that you see your GP and get a referral to an ENT (Ear, Nose & Throat) surgeon so that you can discuss the medical aspects of getting a cochlear implant and whether you would benefit from such surgery. The ENT Implant surgeon will then send you to an Implant Audiologist who will assess and support you through the entire cochlear implant process from pre implant to post implant and beyond.

Cochlear sound processor

The Implant Audiologist explains that if you do get a cochlear implant then you can use both the cochlear sound processor and the Phonak hearing aid to give you hearing from both ears. Also that the Phonak Roger Select/pen system can be set up for both devices and allow stereo streaming which will greatly improve what you can hear in groups and background noise. You will be able to use it for TV streaming and also taking mobile phone calls. Being able to hear through two ear devices is always so much better than hearing from one ear alone. It is good to know that getting a cochlear implant still allows you to use wireless accessories such as the Phonak Roger Select/Pen system.
So can a cochlear implant help me?

If you have answered yes to any or all of the questions in the beginning of this article then a cochlear implant could potentially help you. Seeing an ENT Implant surgeon for medical review and then an Implant Audiologist will help give you information about whether you are a suitable candidate for a cochlear implant. Will you still be able to use your Phonak hearing aids – yes you can still wear one in the other ear and hear with two different devices. Also that the Phonak Roger Select/Pen system can be used for stereo streaming with the two devices. It is good that you now know that you have other hearing options to consider to assist in improving your overall quality of life for hearing and communication. So jump on board and talk with your Audiologist or G.P. soon – we all need to be able to hear, communicate, and connect with our family and friends. Life can be different with a cochlear implant!
Summary

A cochlear implant can assist when hearing aids are no longer enough and other assistive devices such as wireless accessories e.g. Phonak Roger Select/Pen system have also been tried. The process of assessment for a cochlear implant will be through a referral from a G.P. to an ENT Implant surgeon and seeing an Implant Audiologist. Using a hearing aid in the other ear will allow hearing with two different devices but give more benefit than hearing from one ear alone. Adding in wireless accessories like the Phonak Roger Select/Pen system will not only be possible but will give enhanced hearing with stereo streaming. Call up Attune Hearing today to ask about booking in for a comprehensive hearing test.

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How do I know which hearing aid will be best for me?

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How do I know which hearing aid will be best for me?

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How do I know which hearing aid will be best for me?

You may be considering getting a hearing aid but are not sure which one is the best for you. There are various types of hearing aids and this can sometimes be daunting. Knowing about hearing aids and the process can help. We will cover how to determine whether you need a hearing aid, what is involved in a hearing aid discussion, how hearing aids work, the different types/styles, technology levels, and features.

Do I need a hearing aid?

The first step is getting a comprehensive hearing test by a qualified audiologist. Based on the results your audiologist will determine whether hearing aids would be appropriate. The test involves a case history to determine your hearing health and history. Your audiologist will then look in your ears with an otoscope to check the health of the ear canals and eardrums. They will then test your middle ear function by inserting a rubber tip in your ear canal to make some measurements. Next comes the hearing test where you will be presented with a series of beeps and be required to press a button each time you hear one. Lastly, you will be played some words through headphones and need to repeat whatever you hear back. After the test, your audiologist will explain the results to you. They will then recommend what should be done next. If hearing aids are appropriate, then they will recommend them. You can then have a hearing aid discussion appointment with your audiologist to determine which hearing aids are most appropriate for you.

Hearing aid discussion

If a hearing loss which can be treated with hearing aids is diagnosed you may have a hearing aid discussion appointment with your audiologist. During the discussion, your audiologist will cover many areas including difficulties you have communicating with others, history of hearing device use, physical factors which could affect your management of the devices, and individual hearing goals (to determine hearing aid benefit). They will then discuss the benefits/limitations of hearing aids, the different types of aids appropriate to your hearing loss/lifestyle/needs, the different features available, and the different levels of technology available.

After you have this information your audiologist will work together with you to determine which hearing aid is most appropriate based on your results, needs, wants, and lifestyle.

If you are on the pension or are a veteran, you may be eligible for free hearing services and devices under the Australian Government Hearing Services Program (HSP). This will also play a role in determining which hearing aid will be best for you.

How do hearing aids work?

Hearing aids are electronic devices which amplify speech and other sounds to help those with hearing loss hear better. Hearing aids can be worn in the ear or on the ear depending on the style.

Although there are various types of hearing aids, all hearing aids have these 3 parts:

1. Microphone

2. Amplifier

3. Speaker

Hearing aids work as the microphone is sensitive to sound and picks up sound in the environment. The amplifier in the hearing aid then increases the level of sound depending on the amount of amplification needed for your hearing loss (this is set by your audiologist). The speaker then sends the boosted signal back into your ear canal and the sound is heard.

While hearing aids cannot completely restore hearing, they do help people with hearing loss to hear better.

What are the different types/styles of hearing aids?

There are many different types/styles of hearing aids. The ‘best’ one depends on the individual and is based not only the results of your hearing test but your needs/wants and lifestyle.

Behind the ear (BTE)

These hearing aids are made up of two pieces. One piece, which sits behind the ear, and another piece which sits in the ear canal. The two pieces are joined by a tube.

They are less prone to breakdowns (less affected by wax and moisture) and can be fitted to various degrees of hearing loss.

Receiver in the ear canal (RIC)

These hearing aids are also made up of two pieces. However, instead of being joined by a tube, the two pieces are joined by a wire receiver.

They are more discreet as the wire is quite thin, making them a good option for people who are concerned about cosmetics.

In the ear or in the canal (ITE or ITC)

These hearing aids are made up of one piece which sits in the ear (ITE) or canal (ITC).

They are good for people with dexterity issues (e.g. arthritis in the fingers) as they only have one part, making it easier to insert/remove them.

Completely in the canal (CIC)

These hearing aids are also made up of one piece which sits deeper in the canal.

They are ideal for those who are concerned about aesthetics as they are very discreet.

Features available in hearing aids

There are also additional features that can be included in hearing aids including:

Bluetooth

Newer hearing aids now have Bluetooth technology included which allows you to connect to a smartphone or other Bluetooth enabled device. From here you can stream media and phone calls, adjust your hearing aids, and even connect to your TV.

Rechargeable batteries

Some hearing aids now come with rechargeable batteries. The aids need to be charged daily in a charger and are a good idea for those with dexterity issues who cannot handle small batteries.

Telecoil

Some hearing aids come with a telecoil. These are useful for venues with induction loop systems, e.g. train stations, cinemas, churches, and landline phones which are telecoil compatible. This system allows the sound to be collected from the source and sent directly to the hearing aids.

Feedback management

Hearing aids now have technology which can detect and eliminate feedback or whistling from occurring.

Noise reduction

Hearing aids are now better at evaluating the environment and reducing noise and boosting speech.

Selecting a hearing aid can be daunting but you do not have to do it alone. The hearing aid selection process is comprehensive and involves the expert knowledge and guidance of a qualified audiologist. Your audiologist will determine whether you need a hearing aid. If you do, you will then have a hearing aid discussion. It is important to know how hearing aids work, the different types/styles available, different features, and different technology levels so that you can work with your audiologist to make an informed decision about the most appropriate hearing aid for you. Call your local audiologist at Attune Hearing for a hearing test today.

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Best ways to talk to someone with hearing aids or deafness

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Best ways to talk to someone with hearing aids or deafness

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Introduction

Often people with a mild to moderate hearing loss feel that they can hear, but voices are not clear. The person with hearing loss may withdraw to avoid making mistakes. Alternatively they can be talkative. By controlling conversations, they don’t need to listen and their hearing loss may go unnoticed.

Hearing loss due to ageing or noise exposure affects high-pitched sounds the most, therefore sounds like “f”, “t” and “ss” cannot be heard. As the hearing gets worse more sounds become inaudible. For example “g”,”sh”, and “ch” and filling the gaps in a sentence gets increasingly difficult, particularly in background noise. Listening becomes a very tiring process, this is why people with a hearing loss often “switch-off” or appear to have more difficulty hearing at the end of the day.

Hearing aids amplify the tones each person needs and should therefore make speech both louder and clearer. Hearing aids also have clever features that can reduce background noise, enhance speech and even automatically switch on a directional microphone. They even adjust the volume automatically based on the sounds around the user. Unfortunately, as the ear itself is damaged even the best hearing aids cannot replicate perfectly normal hearing. With a little assistance from those around them those with a hearing loss and hearing aid users will find communication easier and less stressful.

Around the Home and One on One Conversations

The home has soft furnishings and less background noise, therefore hearing around the home is usually easier. The person with hearing loss is also likely to be more relaxed. This is why they sometimes feel that they don’t need to wear their hearing aids at home. This is not a good idea. Using hearing aids consistently allows the user to be familiar with how they sound, and distinguishing voices from other sounds becomes easier.

Here are some simple communication tips for around the home when talking to someone with hearing loss or using hearing aids:

Try to keep less than 2 arm-lengths apart. Directional microphones in hearing aids work best at distances of less than 2 meters.

Reduce or move away from background noises, turn off the television or move away from the fan.

Use gestures but do not cover your face.

Use short sentences and speak clearly. Don’t shout or overemphasise words, this changes your lip patterns and makes it difficult to lip read.

If you are asked to repeat things try rephrasing or restructuring the sentence.

Ensure those with hearing loss are on topic before going into detail. For example, “The doctor has changed your medication, the new tablets will………”. Note here the words medication and tablets are used to reinforce the subject being discussed.

Most importantly be patient; communicating with a hearing loss can be time consuming and frustrating.

Talking with the Hearing Impaired in Noisy Places

Hearing in background noise can be challenging for those with normal hearing, however it is more difficult for those with hearing loss and hearing aid users.

The following tips can make communication in noisy environments easier and help the hearing-impaired feel less isolated:

Reduce background noise whenever possible, you may consider explaining that a member of your party has a hearing loss and requesting a quiet table when making a restaurant reservation.

Seat yourself away from the source of the noise. It is more difficult to pick out your voice if it is coming from the same direction as the background noise.

Get the attention of the person with a hearing loss before starting to talk.

Ensure the hearing aid user is looking at you. Most hearing aids reduce noises from behind when a speech signal is detected in front of the hearing aid.

Keep sentences short and to the point.

If you are socialising in a group try to keep those with a hearing loss engaged; hearing loss can cause people to withdraw and become socially isolated.

Encourage groups not to talk at the same time, picking out one voice from many is particularly difficult for those with hearing aids.

If you notice someone losing the thread of a conversation say something that reinforces the subject being discussed.

Communication in Medical and other Important Appointments

Many people, particularly the elderly get quite anxious about appointments and consultations. Anxiety makes listening and being able to recall what is discussed more challenging for everyone. Those with hearing loss need to figure out what has been said and then process and understand the information. They may be too embarrassed to ask a professional they respect to repeat things.

The following actions may facilitate more effective communication during appointments:

Find a quiet place to talk where no one can overhear your conversation. You need to prevent confidential details being overheard.

Try to keep less than 2 meters away and be sure the person with hearing loss can clearly see your face.

Encourage people to use their hearing aids and to seek help from their Audiologist if they are having difficulty.

Use short sentences and speak clearly, you should not need to raise your voice if they are using their hearing aids or a cochlear implant.

If you are asked to repeat things try restructuring the sentence and using different words.

Ask the person with hearing loss to repeat back important information to confirm it has been heard

Write important details down. If the person has poor vision write with a black pen and use lower case letters. This can be done during appointments, as the notes can be taken away with them for future reference.

If you need to go into detail with a relative, that would be too complex or of little interest to the person with hearing loss, let them know what you are discussing with the relative. If the information is of no interest, they may take this opportunity to relax. Remember listening with hearing loss is tiring.

In hospitals it is good practise for a nurse present during the consultation to accompany the hearing-impaired patient to reception. They often ask for clarification of what was said during their appointment.

Teaching or Communicating to a Group

1 in 6 people in Australia have a hearing loss, but not all will use hearing aids.

The following practices will assist your audience:

Use a microphone or any devices you are given that connects with hearing aids. Remember these improve the speech signal only if the microphone is placed close to your mouth.

View PowerPoint presentations on a computer in front of you so that you do NOT have to keep turning towards the screen.

Ask the audience to raise their hand before speaking so everyone can see who is talking.

In group discussions get in the habit of repeating questions from the audience before answering them.

Don’t stand close to a fan or other source of background noise. Most hearing aids can detect background noise and try to reduce it without losing the speech signal.

Use captioned video’s when possible.

Communicating by Phone or Video

There is a significant increase of phone and video to keep in touch and prevent unnecessary travel.

These are some ideas regarding hearing loss and the use of hearing aids when on the phone and video calls:

When pre-booking phone or video appointments remind the client that they need to keep the phone close-by and charged. Remind them to wear their hearing aids close to the time of their appointment.

On initiating a call state clearly who you are, where you are calling from and why. Remember your number may be with-held or unfamiliar and the client may be cautious of nuisance calls.

Ensure that all people on the call have reduced their background noise. If this is not possible, they should mute the microphone unless they are talking.

Keep the microphone close to your mouth, but don’t shout, as it changes sounds and lip patterns.

Keep your face visible and well-lit when using video.

You may need to remind the listener that the phone needs to be held close to the hearing aids microphone. With behind the ear style hearing aids, the microphone is situated just above the ear.

Profound Hearing loss

Those with profound hearing loss may be able to manage on the phone with powerful hearing aids or cochlear implants. However, they may prefer to correspond by email or text message. AUSLAN (Australian Sign Language) users can access video interpreters on-line. See the National AUSLAN Interpreter Service for more information.

Final Comments

Hearing loss can be socially isolating and can lead to depression. A little extra effort makes a big difference to those with a hearing loss. Too many people are uncomfortable admitting they have difficulty hearing and are unwilling to try hearing aids. Hearing aid size and technology has improved considerably in recent years and they now have features to assist the user in noisy or challenging situations. With a little support, hearing loss no longer needs to be a barrier to communication and socialising. The Audiologists at Attune are able to advise on communication strategies and use of hearing aids. Book an appointment with Attune today for more information.

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How Auditory Processing Disorder Tested?

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How Auditory Processing Disorder Tested?

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If you have been advised to take your child to an audiologist to be tested for auditory processing disorder, you might be wondering what’s involved in the test. You might also like to prepare your child for the tests by explaining what to expect. The following is a guide for families with children who are booked to have tests for auditory processing disorder.

What is auditory processing disorder?

Children with auditory processing disorder have symptoms that include:

trouble reading and writing,

an inability to hear or process sound in background noise,

inattentiveness, poor ability to concentrate and

poor academic ability.

These symptoms are often present without a hearing loss.

There are a number of terms used to describe auditory processing disorder. These include, but are not limited to, "auditory processing disorder", "central auditory processing disorder (CAPD)", "language processing disorder", and "auditory information processing disorder" . This guide will use the term CAPD.

How are children tested for CAPD?

Early diagnosis (from 7 years on) for children is important because some forms of therapy become ineffective after adulthood. An example of this is the “LiSN and learn” program to remediate spatial awareness disorder. A thorough diagnostic CAPD assessment can be performed on children over 7 years of age and adults who have auditory processing difficulties. It is not possible to test younger children because the normal variability in brain function across younger children is so notable that interpretation of test results is not accurate.

CAPD testing

Children will always have a hearing test to rule out any medical causes or temporary hearing loss developments, such as middle ear problems. These assessments are completed by an audiologist. An audiologist is a university-trained health professional with specialist skills and knowledge in ears and hearing. CAPD testing takes 3 hours and some children prefer to have the testing done over two appointments. The process is as follows:

Initially, the audiologist will take a case history. There will be questions regarding your child's learning and hearing skills. It is a good idea to bring any reports from a Speech Pathologist, educational psychologist, behavioural optometrist or school reports along to the appointment. This will provide the audiologist with information which assists in the diagnoses of your child.

1. Next, the ear canal and ear drum are examined through an otoscope. The otoscope is a very small torch with a magnifying glass. Children are simply required to sit still while the audiologist looks for wax and checks the state of the ear canal and the ear drum.

2. The health of the middle ear is assessed using tympanometry. The audiologist will place a small soft tip on the outer edge of the ear canal and a low pitched tone is presented. This test will assess the mobility of the eardrum and the three small bones in the middle ear. This procedure is painless.

3. The audiologist will then test the ear's physiological response to sound (acoustic reflex testing) when possible. Using the same equipment as tympanometry, Children will hear a series of beeps and the audiologist will look for a muscle reflex.

4. Next, the audiologist will do a hearing test or Pure Tone Audiometry. This generally consists of air conduction, where either headphones or soft foam inserts are used to play a series of tones at different pitches. Children are required to respond to the tones and the quietest pitches heard are recorded by the audiologist on a hearing graph (audiogram). Often children will also be tested by bone conduction, which allows the Audiologist to distinguish between a middle ear and inner ear problems (conductive hearing loss or sensorineural hearing loss). Here, the audiologist places a bone vibrator on the skull or mastoid bone (just behind the ear) which also records the child’s responses to the quietest tones presented on the audiogram.

5. If a medical issue is detected by the audiologist, you will be advised to see your GP/ENT and a report will be written.

6. The Audiologist will then proceed onto Auditory Processing and Memory Testing. Tests for children may vary depending on the individual difficulties. The tests include:

The LiSN-S (listening in spatialized noise) test which assesses the child’s ability to hear in a noisy environment.

Auditory working memory tests, where the child’s ability to recall numbers and sentence material is tested.

Dicotic Digits test, which assesses the child’s ability to listen to information presented simultaneously to both ears.

Random Gap Detection Test. This assesses the child's ability to detect two tones presented at different time intervals.

Frequency Pitch Pattern Test. This assesses the child's ability to detect subtle differences in sound.

Continuous performance test, where the audiologist will test the child’s visual and auditory attention. Children are asked to click the mouse whenever the number 1 is seen or heard.

Non verbal IQ tests, where children are compared to age specific tables to give a scaled IQ score.

At the end of the assessment, the audiologist will be able to explain the test results, discuss recommendations and answer any questions.

1. The audiologist will also supply a formal written report (at a later date) and include any recommendations for further investigations and management or intervention as appropriate. The audiologist will be available to call should you have any questions about the report.

The nature and degree of the hearing disorder are determined during the assessment process. This allows the audiologist to recommend a management and treatment plan to address the specific needs of children individually.

If your child or a family member is experiencing hearing loss, book an appointment with an Attune audiologist today. Call on 1300 736 702 or enquire online to experience the benefits that early intervention can provide in helping with all types of hearing loss.

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Can A Hearing Aid Restore Hearing Completely?

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Can A Hearing Aid Restore Hearing Completely?

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Almost 4 million Australians suffer from hearing loss. Some people are not aware that they require help with their hearing loss or of the options available that can help with hearing loss. People with hearing loss often report difficulty hearing during daily communication. Most people with hearing loss would benefit from hearing aids. While hearing aids cannot completely restore hearing, they can help a lot with hearing loss.

How do we hear?

When we look closely at how humans hear, we can appreciate the complexity involved. The human ear is made up of 3 parts:

1. Outer ear

2. Middle ear

3. Inner ear

But what do each of these parts do?

The outer ear:
The outer ear includes the pinna (external ear) and ear canal. The pinna collects sound and sends it to the eardrum via the ear canal.

The middle ear:
The middle ear includes 3 tiny bones (ossicles) and the eardrum. As sound waves travel through the middle ear, the vibrations are intensified by these bones.

The inner ear:
The inner ear includes the hearing and balance organs. The 3 bones move the fluid in the cochlea and bend the microscopic hair cells within the cochlea. When this happens, electrical impulses are generated. These are then sent to the brain and sound is heard.

When you consider that all of this is going on at any given moment in the ear, then it is no wonder that things can and do go wrong at any stage. While these intricate processes carried out by the human ear cannot be replicated by hearing aids, hearing aids can help with hearing loss. A discussion with your audiologist can determine what kind of help you need with your hearing loss.

What is hearing loss?

Hearing loss arises when there is an issue in either of the parts of the ear mentioned above. Normal hearing requires all of these parts to be in good function. There are options available to help you with your hearing loss within each part of the ear.

So where can a ‘breakdown’ occur?

An issue in the outer, middle, or inner ear (or a combination) can result in hearing loss.

When there is an issue in the outer ear (e.g. a blockage by wax or a foreign object) or middle ear (e.g. a hole or fluid in the eardrum), conductive hearing loss may occur. This is where sound cannot pass to the inner ear from the outer or middle ear. Therefore, sound may not be loud enough. This hearing loss can be helped by hearing aids.

When there is an issue in the inner ear (e.g. damage due to loud noise or ageing), sensorineural hearing loss may occur. This is where sound can pass from the outer/middle ear to the inner ear but not further beyond this. Therefore, sound may not be clear enough. There are also aids that can help with this type of hearing loss.

When there is an issue in the outer/middle AND inner ear, a mixed hearing loss may occur. This type of hearing loss includes features of both conductive and sensorineural hearing losses and this type of hearing loss can also be helped by hearing aids.

As you can see, there are different types of hearing loss and they can all be helped with hearing aids.

What is a hearing aid?

A hearing aid is an electronic device which boosts the level of sound and helps with hearing loss. The device is worn on or in the ear. A hearing aid not only helps you to hear speech but also general environmental sounds (e.g. birds chirping), which you may not have heard for a long time. When you are fitted, it will take you some time to get used to hearing these sounds again. Consistent use of your hearing aids and perseverance is key to help you with your hearing loss.

There are different types and styles of hearing aids including:

Behind the ear (BTE) - These aids have 2 pieces, one you place behind the ear and one you insert in the ear canal. There is a thin or thick tube linking the two pieces together.

Receiver in the ear canal (RIC) - These aids also have 2 pieces, but the tube is replaced by a wire (receiver) which produces a clearer sound quality.

In the ear or in the canal (ITE or ITC) - These aids have only 1 piece, which fits in the ear or in the ear canal completely.

Completely in the canal (CIC) - These aids have only 1 piece which fits deeper in the ear canal than an ITE or ITC.

While there are various types of hearing aids, all can help with hearing loss. The best one for you depends on a number of factors including your hearing loss, lifestyle, needs, and wants.

How do hearing aids work?

The way in which hearing aids work is complex, but put simply, hearing aids have 3 parts:

1. Microphone

2. Amplifier

3. Speaker

The microphone in the hearing aid picks up sounds present in the environment. The level of this sound is then increased by the amplifier. The speaker then allows the boosted sound to reach the ear canal. In this way, hearing loss can be assisted with hearing aids to better hear these obscure sounds again.

There are of course far more complex and specialised processes occurring in hearing aids. Different hearing aids also perform these processes differently; however, these 3 parts apply to all hearing aids and are the reason that hearing aids help with hearing loss.

What can’t hearing aids do?

Whilst hearing aids cannot restore hearing completely, they can and do help those with hearing loss to hear better. Why can’t hearing aids restore hearing completely?

As we went over before, the ear is a very complex organ made up of a number of parts which must all be functioning well together for normal hearing of speech and general sounds to be possible. But things can go wrong and result in hearing loss and hearing aids can help the majority of people with hearing loss.

While hearing aid technology has advanced greatly in recent times, hearing aids are unable to completely reproduce the processes that occur in the human ear. They do although come very close and provide help with hearing loss.

Hearing aids have a limited number of frequency channels. These allow your audiologist to adjust or fine tune the hearing aids. However, the amount of these channels in hearing aids is limited when compared to the number of fine hair cells in the inner ear (cochlea) which can provide us with very fine details. The hearing nerve is also able to provide very fine details given the number of fibres. Therefore, it is near impossible for hearing aids to be able to replicate this and completely restore hearing to normal but they are a good tool to help with hearing loss.

How can hearing aids help with hearing loss?

While hearing aids cannot restore your hearing completely, they can help with hearing loss. Hearing loss leads to a drop in the level of sound reaching the ear and hearing aids make sounds louder, making it easier for hearing-impaired people to hear.

Hearing aids turn sound into digital code which can be manipulated using hearing aid software. This allows audiologists to fine-tune hearing aids specifically to help with your unique hearing loss. Hearing aids can help you hear environmental sound and speech better and improves your quality of life. They allow you to enjoy conversation, music, and be aware of important environmental sounds (e.g. traffic noise, sirens, alarms).

For those who have had hearing loss for a long time, it will take some time to get used to a hearing aid as the brain is not used to hearing these sounds. It is important to wear the hearing aid consistently every day to adjust to it.

It is important to remember that hearing aids are just that, an aid! While they will not give you normal hearing again, they do help people with hearing loss to hear better and are a way for people to deal with hearing loss. They do, however, have their limitations and so you need to be prepared to encounter some bumps along the way and have realistic expectations. If you have realistic expectations, you will not be disappointed with how hearing aids can help you with your hearing loss.

Many Australians suffer from hearing loss. Human hearing involves a number of complex processes and things can go wrong resulting in hearing loss. While hearing aids cannot restore hearing completely, they can and do help people with hearing loss by helping them hear better, improving their quality of life.

If you’re experiencing hearing loss, don’t put it off an appointment with an Attune audiologist any longer. Call today on 1300 736 702 or enquire online to experience the benefits that hearing aids can provide in helping with your hearing loss.

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Cleaning and Looking After Your Hearing Aids

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Cleaning and Looking After Your Hearing Aids

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Many people are very reliant on their hearing aids and can’t afford to be without them. Hearing aids are sophisticated instruments and poor care and maintenance can impair their performance and reduce their life span. Hearing aids also go into your ear every day, so you want to keep them clean from a hygiene perspective and to prevent infections. There are many different brands of hearing aid and each brand has a variety of styles of hearing aid including behind the ear (BTE), a receiver in canal (RIC), in the ear (ITE) and completely in canal (CIC). Each has its own specific cleaning requirements which your audiologist will go over with you in detail. Below are some common cleaning and care requirements of all hearing aids.

WHICH HEARING AID GOES IN WHICH EAR

The first step to correctly using and caring for your hearing aids is to identify which is left and right. Thankfully colour markings on hearing aids are universal so no matter what brand or style you have the hearing aid for your LEFT ear will be marked with BLUE and the hearing aid for your RIGHT ear will be marked with RED. Hearing aids are programmed and designed specifically for each ear so they are not interchangeable between ears.

BATTERIES

Because hearing aids are sophisticated pieces of electronic equipment, they require batteries to run. Some hearing aids contain inbuilt rechargeable batteries and need to go in a charger at night to be recharged. All other hearing aids need to have fresh batteries to work properly. Hearing aids give warning tones to warn you that the battery is going flat, your audiologist will play this tone for you when you get your hearing aids and show you how to change the batteries so you know what to do when you hear the sound. When changing your hearing aid batteries, it is a good idea to wipe down the battery contacts gently with a clean, dry cloth.

Hearing aids need to be turned off when not wearing them, in general, this is done by opening the battery door. Hearing aid batteries can start to corrode if left for a long time so don’t leave hearing aid batteries in your hearing aid if for some reason you will not be using your hearing aids for a few days. Different hearing aids take different sizes of batteries so don’t assume any hearing aid battery will run your device. The 4 main sizes of hearing aid battery are 10, 13, 312 and 675. Check with your audiologist what size battery your hearing aids require and never force a battery into your hearing aid. Hearing aids batteries are very dangerous if swallowed so batteries and hearing aids should be kept out of reach of children and pets.

TAKING CARE OF YOUR HEARING AIDS

Hearing aids are far more robust than they used to be, but you should still handle them with care, and you shouldn’t get them wet. As such they shouldn’t be worn in the shower, bath or swimming. When they are not being worn, they should be kept in a cool, dry place. The bathroom is not a good place to keep hearing aids because it tends to be a very high humidity environment. Avoid exposing hearing aids to excessive heat and as such don’t wear your hearing aids when using a hairdryer.

Special electronic dryers are available for hearing aids to help remove residual moisture in the devices. In addition, dry aid cups with special silica sachets are available from your audiologist. These drying options can be especially important if you live in a part of Australia (or the world) that has high humidity. Don’t wear your hearing aids if you are applying perfume, aftershave, hairspray, etc as these products contain chemicals that could damage the hearing aids.

CLEANING YOUR HEARING AIDS

Any visible ear wax, dirt or debris should be removed from the hearing aids with a clean, dry cloth. A special brush is provided with hearing aids to reach hard to reach areas such as microphone ports. Depending on the style of hearing aid you have there may be a wax filter that will need to be changed periodically. Your audiologist will show you how to properly clean your hearing aids and provide you with replacement parts required for your specific hearing aid.

Behind the ear hearing aids can have either regular tubing with a custom -made ear mould or thin tubing with a custom mould or dome. Tubing on hearing aids can become blocked with moisture or wax. Sometimes this can be cleared using a cleaning wire or air puffer, or the tubing may need to be changed. From time to time tubing will need to be replaced as it becomes brittle over time. If appropriate your audiologist may show you how to clear your tubing or in the case of thin tubing they may show you how to replace it yourself and give you spares. Don’t attempt to do repairs on your hearing aid if you have not been shown how to by your audiologist.

Regardless of what sort of hearing aid you have, there will be a piece that goes in your ear- this may be a custom-made mould or shell or a replaceable dome. This earpiece should be wiped with a clean, dry cloth daily to keep it clean. If there is residue that remains after wiping the earpiece, ask your audiologist if there is a wipe that is safe to use on your earpiece (do not use household cleaners on your hearing aid). If you use domes on your hearing aid, the audiologist may give you spares to change them at home or may encourage you to bring the hearing aids in every month or two to have your domes replaced.

Taking good care of your hearing aids and doing some simple routine cleaning can prevent many potential issues. Even after you have been shown how to properly clean your hearing aid by your audiologist there will be additional cleaning and servicing that can be carried out by professionals. Ask the staff at your local Attune Hearing clinic how often you should bring your hearing aid in for this servicing. In addition, at least once a year you should have a check-up with your audiologist to recheck your hearing and optimise the settings in your hearing aids.

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Modern hearing aids come in a variety of styles and with various features. Like purchasing a computer or even a car, which one you purchase depends on your lifestyle needs and budget; also, you should take your audiologist’s recommendation into account. The various features hearing aids come with assist with different things, but they also inflate or deflate the price of the aids. The more basic your hearing aids are, the lower the cost, but this could also mean sacrificing the quality of hearing. Today we will guide you through the process of getting hearing aids. You may have seen ads online about wearables or personal amplifiers that can be quite cheap and promise hearing improvement. The problem with these is that if you don’t know how bad your hearing loss is or what is causing your hearing loss, they may be more of a hindrance than a help. That’s why we encourage you to get a hearing test and speak with a hearing professional who will assist you in finding the right hearing aid for your hearing loss, budget and lifestyle.

The Hearing Test: Do I have a Hearing Loss?

The first steps to determining which hearing aid will be suitable for you is to attend a hearing test to determine if you have hearing loss. The audiologist will need to complete a series of tests to determine the level of your hearing loss. They will also need to establish what type of hearing loss you have and whether it stems from the ear or brain. Different causes of hearing loss require different types and styles of hearing aids. In some cases, it is possible to reverse the hearing loss with medical intervention, such as an ear blocked up with wax.

Once the hearing test is completed, the audiologist will explain the results. This usually involves explaining the audiogram, which is a graph showing the softest sounds your ears can detect at different pitches. The audiogram also shows us the parts of speech and conversation you are likely to be missing due to your hearing loss. The audiogram will later be used to generate a prescription for your hearing loss that the audiologist can use to make sure your hearing aids are set at a comfortable level, giving you access to sounds your hearing loss is causing you to miss out on. The audiologist will also explain results from other tests that tell you how certain parts of the ear are functioning, such as your eardrum that may be contributing to your hearing loss. Once you have a good understanding of the hearing test and your hearing loss the audiologist will discuss different options that may be suitable for your hearing needs and budget. In some cases, this will be recommending one or two hearing aids or possibly an assistive listening device such as a TV headset.

I need a Hearing Aid, What now?

The audiologist will need to investigate your lifestyle and what you do during a general week so they can give you advice about which hearing aid features and hearing aid styles will be appropriate for your hearing loss/audiogram. The audiologist will listen to you to get an understanding about what situations your hearing loss is causing difficulties, such as trouble hearing your loved ones at family gatherings or hearing your friend talking to you on the mobile phone. You will work with the audiologist to set goals that you would like to achieve with your hearing aids within your budget. The cheaper economy hearing aids do a fabulous job for people who have more quiet lifestyles and don’t regularly require additional features to help them out in noisy environments like the pub or a busy restaurant. As the hearing aids get more advanced with additional features the sound quality generally improves and the hearing aids become more comfortable in background noise. There are also other features such as Bluetooth and connectivity to phone apps that allow you to use your mobile phone as a remote control for your hearing aids. If you decide you would like to trial a hearing aid, most providers offer hearing aid trials for free or at a low cost so that you can see how much they help you and decide if it is the right hearing aid for your hearing loss and lifestyle and whether the benefits you experience are worth the cost to you.

Will a cheap hearing aid be ok for me if I have a big hearing loss?

There are hearing aids available at all levels of technology that have the ability to give you the volume suitable for your hearing loss. Audiologists will select the power level needed from the hearing aid based on your audiogram from your hearing test appointment. To make sure the hearing aid is doing what it is supposed to, they will also take measurements in your ears at the hearing aid fitting to make sure the hearing aids are set to the prescription for your hearing loss. The audiologist will also make sure that the hearing aids are not too loud or uncomfortable for you and that they are set at a good volume whether you have budget or premium hearing aids. Most hearing aids including the cheaper ones come with volume controls that can be activated to give you some control of the volume. You may find in noisy environments that speech is still hard to understand or the pots banging behind you are louder than the person you are trying to focus on whereas the higher-end hearing aids have features to help smooth the more intrusive sounds and narrow in more closely on the person in front of you.

Our conclusions…Are cheap hearing aids any good?

When you consult a professional and have a hearing test and hearing aid fitting opting for cheaper hearing aids you will likely have a hearing aid that will be great for one to one conversation, television and more quiet environments. We always have to remember that a hearing aid is just that..it’s an aid. There are times when people miss conversation even with completely normal hearing. You will need to use other techniques to ensure you are doing the best with your communication- such as making sure people know to face you when talking to you and perhaps picking a restaurant that you know is less busy and less noisy, however, a hearing aid whether budget or premium can make a big difference and give you access to sounds you hearing loss had you missing out on. So get a hearing test and find out what you are missing, your hearing professional’s job is to listen and work with you to recommend the hearing aids that are right for you.

Contact Attune Hearing for a comprehensive hearing test by Australia’s only accredited hearing healthcare provider. Attune’s team of university qualified audiologists provide hearing services to Australians nationwide and offer professional advice and support for those with hearing loss.

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There isn’t a one-size-fits-all ear plug that can do it all. So, what is available and how do you know you’re using the right ear plugs?

Ready-Fit versus Custom Earplugs There are two main categories that ear plugs fall into, ready-fit plugs sold over the counter or custom earplugs. Ready-fit plugs are a standard one-size fits all or may come various sizes – usually available from pharmacies or online. Custom ear plugs are custom made to fit your ears, so it is best to be fitted by a hearing professional. An impression or mould of the ear needs to be obtained which is a delicate process that should only be carried out by a trained professional. While custom ears plugs are costlier, ranging from $50-$200 for a pair, they are more durable, and custom made to ensure you are receiving proper protection with the best comfort.

When to use earplugs?

Noise plugs (industrial) – For those who work in construction or around heavy machinery for prolonged periods of time it is essential that hearing protection is a part of your everyday uniform. Prolonged exposure and even sudden loud sounds will have a lasting, long-term effect on your hearing. Even if you are using power tools for a few seconds – these few seconds of noise exposure cumulate and over time will damage your hearing. Foam plugs are effective only when used properly. If you find foam plugs uncomfortable, custom ear plugs will ensure maximum comfort so you are able to wear them all day. Custom earplugs will also provide the highest level of noise protection (up to 40dB!). Doubling up on hearing protection is more than welcome, wearing earplugs with earmuffs on top.

Noise plugs (general) - If your partner snores and you’ve just about had enough, ear plugs may be able to assist. Ready-fit ear plugs should suffice for this purpose however if you find they keep falling out during sleep a custom pair may be helpful to keep the plugs in and snoring out. Ready-fit plugs can also be helpful when on aeroplanes or in situations where you need to concentrate in a noisy area and just need a minor reduction of surrounding sounds.

Musician ear plugs – Your ears are extremely important for music! If you play in a band, love your heavy metal music or are an avid concertgoer, loud instruments and music in such close proximity will cause permanent damage to your hearing. Any deterioration in hearing can cause sounds to sound different or distorted. Retaining your normal hearing should be a priority and this is best achieved through protecting your hearing and wearing hearing protection. Maximum noise reduction is not always optimal as this can affect the quality of music thus, over the counter ear plugs are not ideal as they offer a flat attenuation of sound. Ear plugs made specifically for musicians allow different levels of attenuation allowing reduction of sounds evenly to maintain clear and natural sound. Musician earplugs can be sold in standard sizes however for the best retention and attenuation a custom-fitted earplug would be best.

Swimming ear plugs – If you are an avid swimmer or surfer and prone to getting surfers/swimmers ear or ear infections you should strongly consider custom ear plugs. Over the counter plugs just don’t cut it as even a little bit of water can get through the nooks and crannies if not inserted properly. Custom swimming plugs will allow the best fit and seal to keep water out. They are made from a strong durable soft acrylic which will allow prolonged life span and use. If over the counter plugs are your only option make sure they are made from a strong, water-resistant material; foam plugs are a no go for this situation!

What can I customise?

Shape - Some earplugs sit deep in the ears while others fill-up the whole outer portion of the ear. Ready-fit earplugs come in assorted shapes to help with retention to keep the earplugs in securely. Custom earplugs are made to fit the shape of your ears seamlessly as they are made based off a mould of your ears.

Size - Depending on the manufacturer, ready-fit plugs can offer only one size while others offer larger variety. It is important to find an earplug that fits properly and snug especially when using for hearing protection as sound only needs a hole the size of a pin to travel through! The size of custom earplugs will depend on the shape and size of your ears.

Material: Ready fit earplugs are generally made of a soft, pliable material like foam so that it is easily manipulated to fit your ears. Custom earplugs are typically made from a soft acrylic, but this is customisable depending on the manufacturer. If you are allergic to ready-fit materials or acrylic you can opt for silicones, latex or poly-vinyl and request for hypoallergenic coatings to reduce irritation.

Venting: For some earplugs – like for divers, the earplugs cannot block up the ears completely as they require ventilation to equalise – custom plugs allow customisable venting. If you feel uncomfortable with the ears completely blocked up and like to use them for sleeping or general noise reduction, having a vent through the plug will allow air to flow through and aerate the ears.

Attenuation: Ready fit plugs can offer up to 25dB of attenuation but only when used correctly. With custom ear plugs you can customise how much noise the plugs can reduce. This will depend on your purpose for using the plugs.

Caring for your ear plugs Most ready-fit ear plugs should be durable enough to used multiple times however, if there is a tear or the material is not as pliable as it was then it’s best to use a new pair. Custom ear moulds will last years but they still get a bit of wear and tear and it is possible for the shape and size of your ear canals to change. If the custom plugs are broken, chipped or falling out of the ears easily then it’s time to get some new moulds made. Be gentle when inserting and removing custom earplugs, especially if they are made of a softer material. Wipe them down with warm, soapy water or an alcohol swab but make sure they are completely dry before using them again.

Whether you are using ear plugs for noise protection, swimming, music or sleeping it’s important to consider the shape, size and material that is most suitable for your intended use. If you’re not sure what is best for you, reach out to your local Attune Hearing clinic for guidance.

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How to read my audiogram? Interpretation and results

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How to read my audiogram? Interpretation and results

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An audiogram is the graph plotted by an Audiologist when a hearing test is performed.  Quite simply, it shows the softest sounds you can hear.  As there is often a lot of information given during the initial test appointment (test results, coming to terms with the fact you have a hearing loss and may need a hearing aid, hearing aid information itself, financing or funding options for hearing aids) it’s no wonder it can be hard to remember what everything means!

For a quick hearing test or screening, this audiogram may be the only information gathered about your hearing.  If you have a more comprehensive assessment there may be other information as well including speech test results and middle ear results.  Some clinics are happy to provide you with your audiogram, whereas others may request you obtain this through your GP if you have had a medical referral for a hearing test.

If we look at the basic audiogram, it is a graph with two axes.  Top to bottom is the volume of sound going from soft up the top to loud down the bottom.  Sound is measured in decibels relative to hearing levels, or dB HL, where 0 is the threshold of normal hearing (Interacoustics, March 2016).  Although 0 is where normal hearing starts, the normal range of hearing is actually from 0 to 20, and this normal range is the same no matter what age you are.

Across the graph from left to right is frequency or pitch of sound.  This is measured in Hertz (Hz) or Kilohertz (kHz) for the higher frequencies.  Think of a piano keyboard that goes from bass to treble if you sweep your finger left to right – the audiogram is effectively the same.  Most speech sounds fall between the range of 500-4000Hz and the frequency range for a hearing test is usually 250-8000Hz.  In rare cases either lower frequencies (down to 125Hz) or higher frequencies (up to 12kHz) may also be tested depending on the purpose of the test.

The audiogram should have a table nearby explaining what the symbols plotted on the graph mean.  Circles indicate the right ear, crosses indicate the left ear.  If your audiogram is in colour: red is for right and blue for left.  A basic hearing screening will only have these symbols, but a comprehensive test will also have other symbols such as < or >, [ or ] or Π, sometimes there are even letters printed on the audiogram! What do they all mean?

Circles and crosses (even filled in circles and crosses) are air conduction results, which are from headphones or earphones.  These indicate how loud you can hear sound when it goes through all 3 parts of your ear (outer, middle and inner) and is the primary measure of the softest sounds you can hear.

The different types of brackets indicate bone conduction which was the tight headband you may have worn that sat behind your ear – this bypasses the outer and middle ears and sends the sound directly into the cochlea in your inner ear.  Bone conduction is normally performed during a comprehensive hearing test and indicates what part of your ear the hearing loss is in – and can often help your Audiologist to know whether any medical treatment should be considered rather than just a hearing aid.  As a rule if the bone conduction is much higher on the audiogram than the air conduction this could indicate a conductive or mixed hearing loss, and medical referral should be undertaken to investigate the cause and any treatment, especially if a hearing aid is being considered.

On your audiogram there might be different letters printed, or a banana shape or shaded area.  This area is where the different speech sounds occur, and each letter is actually a speech sound  - so you can see for yourself what sounds you can hear and which you can’t – at a normal conversational volume.  This can help you make sense of what your audiogram actually means!  If your hearing levels (circles and crosses) are above the letter then you can hear it well, if your hearing is below the letter then you can’t hear that sound well unless it is made louder in volume.  You may see that your audiogram is a mix - some speech sounds you can hear well (typically vowels and sounds like M, N, D) and some you may not hear well (typically F, S, TH). This is why people frequently say “I can hear but not understand” as they are not hearing all the sounds they need for speech to make sense.

As mentioned above, the range of normal hearing is from 0 to 20dB.  If any results fall below 20 this indicates a hearing loss. Below normal hearing is graded by the terms mild, moderate, severe and profound. Mild is down to 45, moderate to 70, severe to 90 and profound below this. Hearing is not explained using a percentage which is a common misunderstanding, it will be described using these terms (for example mild to moderate, moderate to severe etc).

The most common shape for a hearing loss is where it slopes downwards towards the right, meaning that higher pitched (treble) sounds are harder to hear. This is typically what happens with age and exposure to loud noise. Hearing loss does vary from person to person with some people having flat hearing losses and others having a reverse slope where the deeper sounds are worse and the audiogram slopes upwards from left to right.  Often left and right ears are similar on the audiogram, but if one ear is worse, then that line will be below the other on the audiogram.

If you were given a speech test where you heard a man’s voice say words you then had to repeat, then this will be the percentage you were given, which is often confused with your hearing levels.  This percentage score is called speech discrimination and what this actually means is how clearly you can hear speech when the sound is made loud enough for you.  The volume that you hear the words is usually dependent on your audiogram therefore for some people these words may be at a normal conversational speech volume, whereas for others the volume of speech may be made quite loud.  This score is a good indicator of your overall hearing ability, and if you have a hearing loss then it can indicate how well you are likely to do with a hearing aid.

As hearing is complex and not about simply turning up the volume, if you have average speech discrimination then a hearing aid won’t be the answer to your hearing difficulties by itself.  For example, if you have a severe hearing loss and your speech discrimination for amplified speech is only 60%, then even with a hearing aid you will still have difficulty understanding what people say.  Unfortunately, generally the poorer your hearing is the worse your speech discrimination is; and the longer your leave your hearing loss untreated (without a hearing aid) the worse your speech discrimination is likely to get in the long run.

So how do you know whether you actually need a hearing aid?  Generally if your audiogram shows you are missing many or most of the speech sounds, or you are well below the normal hearing range (20dB or lower on the graph) a hearing aid may benefit you.

There has been abundant research into early intervention for hearing loss and fitting hearing aids to people even with a mild hearing loss.  The biggest finding has been from The Lancet International Commission on Dementia Prevention and Care, where untreated hearing loss in middle age was found to be the single biggest modifiable risk factor for cognitive decline later in life (Livingston, et al., 2017).

Even for a mild hearing loss a hearing aid can make a big difference to your communication and levels of fatigue by the end of the day.  Certainly if the hearing loss is more than mild a hearing aid should be considered as an option.  As technology improves, hearing aids are becoming smaller in size, and there are even completely invisible shower-proof hearing aids available!

Your Audiologist can discuss suitable hearing aid options with you based on your hearing ability, your individual ear, and your needs and lifestyle.  It is also important to have realistic expectations of what hearing aids can and cannot do, so you know what to expect.  Your Audiologist can also discuss finance and funding options available for hearing aids.  Many clinics have interest free finance packages available and many private health funds offer a rebate on hearing aids if you have extras cover.  In Australia, if you are on a pension or DVA funded you may be eligible for hearing aids through the Hearing Services Program.

Understanding your own audiogram is easy, and is an important step to help you take control of your communication needs, especially when considering a hearing aid.  If you have any questions when looking at your audiogram or other results, or want to discuss hearing aid options, your Audiologist at Attune Hearing will be more than happy to help.

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How often do you need to get a hearing test?

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How often do you need to get a hearing test?

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So, you’re wondering how often you need to get a hearing test.  Most of us have routine medical, skin, dental and vision check-ups but hearing is often neglected from this list.  Many of you are probably thinking there is nothing wrong with your hearing or that you had a test years ago and it was fine so there is no need to bother. Because hearing loss is most often a gradual process it is important to keep getting it checked, especially as we age. There are a number of different scenarios to consider in order to best answer how often you should get a hearing test.

Children’s hearing tests

Screening of a newborn’s hearing is now an essential part of newborn health checks and will happen within the first few weeks of a newborn’s life, often before they leave the maternity unit. This will detect any issues with the newborn’s hearing and, if required further, testing will be recommended.

Even though passing the newborn hearing screening rules out most hearing loss present at birth, it does not guarantee your child will always have normal hearing. Hearing loss in children can affect speech and language development in young children and can cause significant learning and behavioural issues so it is important to have your child’s hearing checked. Children’s hearing is often briefly considered as part of routine childhood checks at the GP but if there are any concerns or your child has had ear infections, you should get a referral to see an audiologist for a comprehensive hearing test. Having a hearing test just before your child starts school is a good idea even if there are no concerns as this will ensure they are well placed to learn when they enter the classroom.

Adults who have never had a hearing test

If you’ve never had a hearing test before it is a good idea to get it checked. You might think your hearing is fine but what you have learned to perceive as “normal” doesn’t necessarily mean you have normal hearing, so it is a good idea to have a baseline hearing test. It is possible that there has always been a hearing loss present so you don’t realise what you are missing (particularly if the hearing loss is only in one ear) or your hearing may have changed slowly over time without you noticing. A hearing test will establish if there is any hearing loss or medical “red flags” present and your audiologist will explain your results after the test and recommend further investigations and action if indicated. How frequently you should have follow-up hearing tests will depend on your hearing test results, your age and your personal and family history which may make you more at risk of a hearing loss. Ask your audiologist what they recommend given your circumstances.

Adults who had a hearing test before and it showed normal hearing

Hearing loss tends to happen gradually, so it is often hard to detect a change in your hearing as your brain gradually adapts to the changes and what you perceive to be “normal” changes with it. Even in healthy individuals hearing will generally decline as we age. How fast it declines depends on lifestyle factors such as noise exposure (recreational or occupational), medical factors (certain medical conditions and medications can affect your hearing) and genetic factors. Because the changes tend to be slow generally you will probably need a hearing test every 1-5 years but ask your audiologist what they recommend for you.

Adults who already know they have a hearing loss but don’t have hearing aids

If you already know you have hearing loss but for whatever reason don’t have hearing aids, you should be monitoring your hearing more regularly- your audiologist will advise you on a good interval for you. If you have a known hearing loss your audiologist has probably already discussed the option of hearing aids with you. If you weren’t ready for them at that point or have tried them years ago and didn’t get on with them, it is worth investigating the new hearing aids available. Hearing aid technology has come a long way, there are hearing aids available in every size and for every budget and some can even pair to a mobile phone via Bluetooth to enable you to hear phone calls straight through the hearing aid. Ask your audiologist if you can trial some hearing aids so you can see the benefits for yourself.

I already have hearing aids

If you already have hearing aids it is important to see your audiologist regularly, at a minimum at least once a year, to have your hearing rechecked and hearing aids adjusted based on your current hearing test results. Your audiologist will also clean and service your hearing aids to ensure they are in optimum working condition. In addition, because hearing aid technology is constantly advancing, your audiologist will be able to update you on newer hearing aids as they become available, so you have the best solution for your hearing needs.

If you feel your hearing changes

Whilst most hearing loss happens gradually there are certain situations which can cause your hearing to change suddenly, if this happens you should have a hearing test straight away. Hearing may change suddenly due to wax or a cold or it can be due to another medical condition which may require immediate treatment. Certain medications and medical conditions may make you at risk of hearing loss, if you are unsure speak to your doctor, pharmacist or audiologist.

Summary

In summary, how often you should get a hearing test does not have a one size fits all answer. It is important to have a baseline hearing test and then based on your results and personal history your audiologist will advise you of an appropriate interval between hearing tests. If you notice a change in your hearing you should see an audiologist straight away for another hearing test.

Head to your nearest Attune Hearing clinic or call 1300 736 702 to book your next hearing test. Attune Hearing shares the same QIP accreditation as your local GP clinic.

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What is involved when Trialing a hearing aid?

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What is involved when Trialing a hearing aid?

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Hearing loss is the second most common health condition in Australia, affecting 1 in 6 people[1], and yet the average time frame between when a hearing loss is suspected and when someone seeks help for a hearing loss is 7 years[2]. Why does it take someone such a long time before they are driven to action?

It is possible that they perceive a certain stigma around wearing hearing aids as it signals a deterioration and is often age-related. Or it could be that someone is not motivated to put the effort into wearing a hearing aid or the time that is required as the brain adjusts to the new sound. It could be the financial outlay that may be involved. Or it could simply be that hearing loss quite often creeps up over the years and our brains are very good at filling in the gaps and “getting by” so that a hearing loss may not be noticed until it is significantly affecting daily communication.

If this sounds like you and you are hesitating, thinking “do I really need a hearing aid?” “Am I going to manage a hearing aid?” “Will a hearing aid really make that much difference? “will it be worth spending money on more advanced technology?”. The answer could be to do a hearing aid trial.

It is important to realise that everyone is different. Different lifestyles have different requirements and different expectations will contribute to different outcomes. Trialling a hearing aid will let you try before you buy and feel confident in your investment.

The Hearing Test

The process of having your hearing tested and getting a hearing aid can seem rather overwhelming, however it is likely that uncertainty and lack of information is at least partially to blame. The first step is to see an Audiologist and a lot of that uncertainty will disappear leaving the process a lot less daunting.

You may have been doing some research prior to the appointment, searching online or asking friends about their experiences. It is a good idea to keep note of the specific situations you are having trouble in. For example, ask family members or colleagues if they have noticed you having difficulty, as this information will play a significant role in working out which hearing aid features and technology you would benefit from.

The test appointment is a good opportunity to ask the Audiologist any questions you may have, and to seek clarification. There is a lot of information given at the initial appointment and there are decisions to be made, so having a family member or friend attend the appointment is valuable. It is also worth considering your budget and checking with a private health fund to see if you will receive any rebate on hearing aids.

At the test appointment your Audiologist will assess the degree and nature of your hearing loss and explain the results. They will also ask questions to determine what your individual listening needs and goals are and explain what you can expect from hearing aids. The listening needs of a socially active person who is in the workforce may be different from someone who lives alone and rarely finds themselves in noisy environments. It is important to have realistic expectations about potential hearing aid benefits and to understand how differences in technology can affect how hearing aids perform in different noise environments. Together you can find a hearing aid that suits your individual communication needs and your budget and a style that you will be happy to wear.

Fitting a Trial hearing aid

Using the information regarding the hearing loss itself and your individual lifestyle and budget, the Audiologist will help you to select a hearing aid to trial. The aid will be programmed using software and measurements may be taken to validate the setting.

Adjustments are made according to the feedback you give the Audiologist. For example, people often find they prefer less volume initially, especially if they are new to hearing aids.

The Audiologist will demonstrate how to insert and manage the hearing aid and make sure you are able to put the aid in comfortably and securely, change batteries and clean the aid. They will also explain any controls on the hearing aid and any additional features or accessories that are relevant.

You will then take the hearing aid home for a period of time to try it out in your regular listening environments before returning for a follow up appointment.

The follow up

Hopefully you will have had the opportunity to wear the hearing aids in a variety of listening situations and acoustic environments and you will probably be somewhat used to the new sound already. Bringing a family member or friend along to the follow up appointment is again recommended. It is helpful for the Audiologist and is interesting for you to hear feedback from a different perspective. The follow up appointment is a chance to address any concerns or questions you may have.

Points to remember

There are significant benefits to getting a hearing aid sooner rather than later. While the relationship between hearing loss and cognition needs more research before it is fully understood, there is also an association between hearing loss and mental wellbeing so being fitted with a hearing aid as soon as an aidable hearing loss is detected is advisable.

Don’t delay having your hearing tested

Bring a communication partner to your appointments if possible

“You won’t know until you try” A trial takes guesswork out of your decision-making process

A successful trial means that you can proceed with purchasing hearing aids with confidence with no surprises and knowing that they meet your needs.

If you’re looking to get your hearing tested, trust Australia’s only hearing healthcare provider, Attune Hearing. With clinics nationwide, visit one of our friendly Audiologists for a professional hearing test or to ask more information about trialing a hearing aid. Contact Attune Hearing today.

[1] https://hearnet.org.au/hearing-loss/fects-on-hearing-loss Accessed 11 May 2020

[2] www.hcia.com.au-resources/HCIA.pdf Accessed 11 May 2020

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Are Diabetics twice as Likely to have a Hearing Loss?

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Are Diabetics twice as Likely to have a Hearing Loss?

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It is not uncommon for hearing loss and health problems to go hand in hand. On the face of it this may seem obvious but even though we may readily acknowledge this fact, we don’t automatically link specific diseases to hearing loss or recognise that we may have a hearing loss. It is thought that approximately 1 in 6 Australians have a hearing loss and the health causes of hearing loss are still being researched. Furthermore, recent studies have shown that, diabetes, a prevalent health condition which is on the rise, may be linked to hearing loss. Approximately 1.7 million Australians have diabetes (www.diabetesaustralia, 2018), and studies recognize that “As diabetes becomes more common, the disease may become a more significant contributor to hearing loss.” (Dr Catherine Cowie NIH, 2008). Cowie also identified that the likelihood of adults with diabetes having a hearing loss doubled. This finding is also supported by various other studies all of which have indicated that hearing loss is in fact twice as likely to occur with the disease, diabetes.

What is the Connection?

The precise link between hearing loss and diabetes is not yet fully understood, however, it is thought that having a high blood sugar level seems to increase the likelihood of developing hearing loss by as much as 30% (Dr Catherine Cowie NIH, 2008). This finding pertains to anyone who is either diabetic or in the process of developing the disease. It is not clear why this is the case, however, the most likely hypothesis considers what is already known about the damaging effect of having high blood glucose levels. When this happens the sugar or glucose levels become toxic. This glucotoxicity begins to break down different parts of your body’s organs including your nerves, arteries and blood vessels. The body’s healing reaction to fight this breakdown is to form plaque which can build up in your arteries. Of all the organs in your body, your kidneys are the most vulnerable to the effects of glucotoxicity. This is because your kidneys have to work extra hard to remove the glucose from your blood. The excess of glucose gradually destroys the kidney’s, which leads to dialysis. How all this relates to your hearing is still being researched, however, since the glucotoxicity effect from high blood sugar levels is known to damage blood vessels, nerves, arteries and organs, it is thought that this must therefore almost certainly apply to the blood vessels of the organ of hearing, known as the cochlear or inner ear; damaging the vessels and nerves and the nerve pathway from the inner ear to the brain (Lorenzi, 1992). The link between hearing loss and diabetes is clearly present and how this affects the hearing is also still being researched. However, studies around the world in Brazil, the United States of America, Australia and Asia have all had supporting results to strongly suggest that there is a very strong association between diabetes and hearing loss.

Know the signs

It is important to arm yourself with a good knowledge of the disease if you are either a diabetic, or if you think that you may be pre-diabetic. If this is the case, it is important to understand that you may be at risk of hearing loss as a complicating factor of diabetes disease. In particular, there seems to be an increased risk of high frequency hearing loss (Vasilyeva et al, 2009). If you have not already done so, book an appointment with your audiologist. If you have never had a hearing test, or only recently been diagnosed with diabetes, or are pre-diabetic, it is very important to establish a base-line of your hearing, so that your hearing can be monitored over time. Make sure that you have regular hearing tests so that your audiologist can tell you if there are any changes in your hearing thresholds. This is very necessary so that, should you start to develop a hearing loss, your audiologist can discuss rehabilitation options with you before your hearing loss deteriorates too much (Vasilyeva et al, 2009).

Prevention is better than Cure

The most common diabetes in adults is Type 2 and it is possible to avoid the onset of this disease and even reverse the condition, especially if pre-diabetic. It is important to know what the relationship is between your lifestyle and the onset of this disease and take active steps to avoid diabetes, which in turn will lower the risk of complicating factors such as hearing loss (www.nih.gov). The causes are varied but if you remember that disease is due to high blood sugar levels, we can look at a few things that trigger this. Diet is primary; carbohydrates increase your blood sugar levels, so try and reduce or avoid foods high in carbohydrates such as pasta and potatoes and sugary foods like sweets. Eating a healthy diet is essential and you can easily do this by introducing more vegetables and foods high in fibre. Other big risk factors for diabetes is obesity, being sedentary, and high blood pressure. Exercise is vital for good health and well being and also for keeping trim. Reducing alcohol intake and Regular exercise assists you in losing weight and will also help you to maintain a healthy blood pressure. If you smoke, try to reduce it until you have given it up. People who smoke greatly increase their risk for diabetes.

Summary

The number of diabetes cases is increasing and it is known that if you have diabetes you double your chances of hearing loss. The reasons why having diabetes contributes to the complication of a hearing loss so significantly are not completely clear, however, we do know that very high blood sugar levels lead to glucotoxicity which breaks down the nerves, arteries, blood vessels and organs of the body. It is thought that in the same way glucotoxicity may very likely damage the blood vessels and nerves of the delicate mechanism of your inner ear, which will cause hearing loss. Taking positive steps to prevent this disease and even reverse it involves not only changing your lifestyle, but also to regularly check your hearing with your audiologist. You can do this every year just as you have an annual check-up with your general practitioner.

If you’re looking to get your hearing tested, trust Australia’s only hearing healthcare provider, Attune Hearing. With clinics nationwide, visit one of our friendly Audiologists for a professional hearing test to determine your level of hearing loss or to manage your hearing health. Contact Attune Hearing today.

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When you are first diagnosed with a hearing loss it can be quite daunting to then be told that you need hearing aids.  That’s right - hearing aids - plural.  You may wonder… Does this mean my hearing loss is twice as bad?  No. Two hearing aids will be recommended for most people when they have a hearing loss in both ears.  Whether you require 1 or 2 hearing aids is totally dependent on the level of hearing loss present in each ear.  Hearing loss can range from a very mild hearing loss to a profound hearing loss and age-related hearing loss occurs for most people gradually over time, generally effecting both ears.  For cases where the hearing loss in one ear is worse than the other, a hearing aid for each ear will still be recommended, so that the hearing loss can be corrected independently for each ear.  Our brain was designed to receive auditory information equally from both sides and requires this ‘binaural’ hearing information to function most effectively, especially in social situations where there is background noise present.  By wearing hearing aids programmed to the individual hearing loss of each ear, the brain will again receive balanced sounds between the ears, as is the natural design of the hearing system.

ADVANTAGES OF TWO HEARING AIDS

Wearing two hearing aids, when there is a hearing loss in both ears, has been shown to enhance the listening experience in a number of ways.

1. Better Localisation and Directionality with two Hearing Aids

Sound signals arriving at each ear give our brain the ability to determine which direction a sound came from (localisation).  When there is a hearing loss in both ears and only one hearing aid is worn, the other ear will not hear as effectively, and this directional hearing ability is disrupted.  Wearing only one hearing aid, when both ears have a hearing loss, does not allow the brain to use the timing and volume cues needed to tell where the sounds came from.  Localisation is an important skill for social situations as it allows us to know who is speaking so that we can turn and focus our attention on the conversation.  It is also important for our safety i.e. telling where a warning signal, siren, alarm and traffic is coming from.

1. Better Speech Understanding in Background Noise with two Hearing Aids

Most situations that involve conversation also contain an element of background noise.  Our brain requires an equal level of sound to be perceived on the left and right side in order to perform to its best potential for speech clarity, particularly in the presence of competing background noise. The timing of sound arriving at the ear allows us to tell where sounds come from (localise) and to distinguish the required speech sounds from the background noise.  Just as we require two eyes with equal vision for best depth perception, we also need two optimally working ears to hear through the background noise.  Wearing only one hearing aid, when there is a hearing loss in both ears, will not allow you to take advantage of the brain’s ability to focus on speech when in noisy environments.

1. Lower volume required with two hearing aids

Listening with two hearing aids, when there is a hearing loss in both ears, gives your brain the perception of increased volume and better ease of listening, without the need to set the hearing aids as high. This typically provides better comfort when in noise and improved satisfaction for the wearer.

1. Less chance of Auditory Deprivation with two Hearing Aids

By wearing only 1 hearing aid, when there is a hearing loss in both ears, the ear without the hearing aid is being deprived of sound.  This deprivation of sound can then make the auditory nerve less effective at processing speech information over time.  Understanding speech, particularly when background noise is present, can then become more difficult as time passes.  Just like our muscles must be used to maintain their performance and strength, our auditory pathway must also be exercised to stay at peak performance.  Wearing hearing aids for both ears when the hearing loss requires amplification, will help the auditory pathway to remain in best condition for the long term.

DISADVANTAGES OF TWO HEARING AIDS

There are very few disadvantages to wearing two hearing aids. The most obvious disadvantage is cost.  Most people, will however - if they have a hearing loss in both ears, find that the listening ease and benefit they receive by wearing two hearing aids will far outway the cost of purchasing the second device.

Is One Hearing Aid ever the correct solution?

There are very few times when one hearing aid will be recommended by a hearing professional.  Those times include, if you have a hearing loss in one ear and normal or only a very mild hearing loss in the other - then it is appropriate to purchase and wear only one hearing aid.  It is important, however, that the hearing loss is monitored regularly in the better ear to determine whether it also requires a hearing aid over time.

There is also some research that suggests that people with dementia and/or cognitive decline will find one hearing aid more beneficial than two (even if they have a hearing loss  in both ears) – however this decision is best made on a case by case basis with evidence obtained for each individual.  The potential benefit from two hearing aids is always best trialled in this circumstance to determine how each individual performs.

As a side note, given that hearing aids are programmed individually for the hearing loss in each ear - if you typically wear two hearing aids and one is sent for repair or service or if you have an ear infection in one ear, it is appropriate to wear just one hearing aid alone during this interval (remember two is better than one, but one is better than none).

Still not sure of the next step?

If you have been diagnosed with a hearing loss or would like to be tested for a hearing loss it is recommended that you consult with an Audiologist to determine the best course of action for your individual case.  If you are unsure whether to purchase one or two hearing aids, we strongly recommend that you request to trial a hearing aid for each ear.  A hearing aid trial is generally provided at no charge and is the best way to determine the benefit for your individual hearing loss and circumstances.

If you’re looking to get your hearing tested, trust Australia’s only hearing healthcare provider,Attune Hearing. With clinics nationwide, visit one of our friendly Audiologists for a professional hearing testor to ask more information about trialing a hearing aid. Contact Attune Hearing today for an appointment.

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Most of us have experienced (or will experience) moments of hearing loss at one stage or another throughout our lives – often it’s temporary or mild and resolves itself. Other times it can be a sign of something more serious or permanent. Seeing as there are many different types and causes of hearing loss, it’s vital to get a test if you’re experiencing any loss of or reduction in your hearing. A hearing healthcare provider can pinpoint the cause of your hearing loss and work out a plan to remedy the issue. While it’s undoubtedly always best to get yourself to an audiologist, there are some symptoms you can keep an eye out for (in a manner of speaking) to determine whether your hearing loss is related to a more acute issue, like compacted earwax, or something more troublesome, like a inner ear processing problem. So, let’s look at some common signs and symptoms of hearing loss.

Gradual or Instant?

Ninety per cent of those that experience hearing loss experience sensorineural hearing loss – it is the most common form but develops as a result of many different causes. Majority of those that develop sensorineural hearing loss develop it gradually (rarely does it happen overnight). If you’ve noticed your hearing has been gradually diminishing, it’s a good idea to seek a test from a trusted audiologist. The sooner you get tested, the sooner you can benefit from intervention.

On the other hand, if your hearing loss has occurred over a short period of time, this could indicate that it might be conductive – meaning that your middle to outer ear isn’t functioning properly – or it could be temporary noise-related loss of hearing. The best case scenario is that it could be reversed or may resolve itself over time, and at worst, you can set a plan in motion to maximise your hearing despite a more permanent diagnosis. This is why testing is crucial.

Other General Symptoms

Some other more general symptoms of hearing loss, and therefore signs it’s a good idea to get a hearing test, include:

Others mention that you listen to the TV, radio, or your headphones too loud.

Trouble understanding speech in noisier areas

Trouble hearing people over the phone

A feeling that you can hear people, but not understand them.

Uncertainty over where a particular sound came from (sound localisation)

Tinnitus (ringing in the ears)

Getting startled by unexpectedly loud sounds (recruitment)

Book a Test Today

If you are experiencing some of the symptoms mentioned (and they have developed gradually), this could indicate that you are seeing the early signs of hearing loss. Alternatively, it could be something less serious. Ultimately, your experience cannot be confirmed with an internet diagnosis, so get yourself to a hearing specialist!

Attune is an independent hearing healthcare provider that delivers premium care to patients all around Australia. Attune’s audiologists and hearing specialists are highly qualified and professional and provide the highest quality of care possible. Get in touch with your closest specialist today.

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How Often Do Hearing Aids Need Replacement?

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How Often Do Hearing Aids Need Replacement?

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Hearing aids don’t come cheap, so the idea of replacing them can be an undesirable one. Thankfully, there really isn’t a definitive answer to this question. It’s how well you look after your hearing aids that dictates how long they’ll last for you. There’s also some other factors that may influence you to upgrade. However, without a pressing need to upgrade, getting a new hearing aid is essentially like getting a new car – your old one probably works fine. It gets you from A to B; but it could be more comfortable, or use newer technology, and look nicer. This is why some people decide to upgrade their hearing aid every few years as technology and designs improve. Apart from wanting to have the latest tech, there’s also the following reasons why people get a replacement.

If Your Aid Starts Glitching…

Of course, if you’re experiencing problems with your hearing device then it might be time for a replacement (especially if yours is more than a few years old). Before you throw out your old hearing aid, check if it works by turning it on and cupping your hand around it – listen for a whistling sound. If you can’t hear one, check for signs that the battery is dead, or of earwax build-up in the moulding, or moisture in the tubing. These are simple fixes – your hearing healthcare provider can easily show you how to resolve these problems (and there are plenty of resources online too). However, if your device still won’t work after troubleshooting these common problems, it might be a more serious glitch that requires a replacement.

If Your Hearing Loss Changes…

Over time, hearing loss can become more severe due to the natural aging process or noise damage. Whilst most hearing aids can cater to a range of different hearing abilities and complexities, it’s good to get re-evaluated by an audiologist to see if your old hearing aid is still right for you and your changing needs. Your audiologist might suggest a new device with superior technology or shape that might improve your life quality, which is always worth the investment.

If You’re A Part of a Government Program…

The Hearing Services Program in Australia provides eligible participants with free or subsidised hearing aids every 4–5 years (sooner if there is a significant change or clinical need). However, only people who meet a certain criteria can access this support as it is taxpayer funded and designed for those who truly need it.

Getting The Most Out of Your New Device

As stated, it’s a big financial decision getting a new hearing aid; although sometimes it’s unavoidable. To look after your new device, or the one that you currently own, always make sure you’re following these tips.

Use a dry aid kit or store your aid near a dehumidifier

Keep your aid dry (unless it’s water resistant) – take it out for showering or swimming.

Remove your aid for sleeping (to prevent any physical damage)

Switch it off while it’s not in use to save battery life

Attune is a hearing healthcare provider committed to delivering the highest quality care to its clients. We listen to each patient and provide top quality services with our team of qualified and knowledgeable audiologists and experts. Book a consultation with us today by enquiring online.

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What Type of Incidents Can Lead to Hearing Loss?

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What Type of Incidents Can Lead to Hearing Loss?

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Hearing loss can occur as a result of many things. The causes of hearing loss can be environmental, physical, neurological, and sometimes just unknown. Some people are simply born with hearing loss, while others develop it over time. Whilst there is sometimes no way to predict or avoid this condition from occurring, there are some incidents that are well known to cause hearing loss. So, what are these incidents and what can you do to protect yourself?

Loud NoisesRemember when an elder would warn you about listening to your music too loud? Well, they were right. Frequent exposure to loud music (or generally, any loud noises) for extended periods of time can damage the cells and membranes in your cochlea, as they become overworked and begin to die. Unfortunately, this damage is permanent. To prevent damage to your hearing, use protective wear for your ears (

earplugs or ear muffs) during exposure to loud noises.

Ear Wax Build UpEar wax, or cerumen, is a natural substance produced by the ear to protect it against dust, foreign particles, and bacteria. While our ears were designed to naturally rid themselves of excess ear wax (it typically makes it way out of the ear and falls out or is washed away), people often like to remove ear wax for hygienic purposes. Unsuitable methods of ear wax removal can cause ear wax to build up and block up ear canals. This causes temporary hearing loss. To prevent this from happening, avoid using cotton tips that push ear wax further into the ear. If you’re worried about excess ear wax build up, get a professional to clean out your ear.

Unhealthy Habits

There is a strong correlation between smoking and obesity, and hearing loss. Leading an unhealthy lifestyle prevents all parts of the body from functioning in their optimal condition; it also leads to slower recoveries from health conditions. To keep your ears healthy and functioning properly, keep your whole body in good health with a balanced diet and active lifestyle.

Physical AccidentsSkull fractures and brain injury can cause issues with your hearing, such as sensorineural hearing loss (affecting the way your brain perceives sound waves). Some accidents can also cause physical damage to the ear, which can contribute to hearing loss (like a perforated eardrum). If you’ve had a knock to the head and you’re noticing your hearing has decreased, see a hearing specialist. Sometimes these accidents are unavoidable; however, if you’re participating in any contact sport or extreme activities, you can ensure you’re wearing the appropriate protective gear.

When Hearing Loss is UnavoidableWhile you can do your best to protect yourself from developing hearing loss with the right gear, sometimes due to genetics, age, or malformations, hearing loss is simply unavoidable. In that situation, the best thing you can do for your overall health is to ensure you are managing your condition with the best possible care and equipment.

Attune is here to support you throughout your hearing loss journey with high-quality services and medical care. Call to book an appointment today on 1300 736 702.