Hearing is a complex process that depends on both the external environment and the ear’s structure. Many people assume that hearing problems come only from loud noise exposure, age, or illness. However, physical anatomy also plays a major role. One key part of this anatomy is the ear canal. Its size, shape, and angle can influence how sound enters the …
How Viral Infections Impact the Inner Ear
The human ear is a complex organ responsible for hearing and balance. It consists of three main parts: the outer ear, middle ear, and inner ear. The inner ear contains the cochlea, which helps us hear, and the vestibular system, which controls balance. While many people think of ear problems as being caused by bacteria or injuries, viral infections can …
Hearing Loss and Medication: What Seniors Should Ask Their Doctor
Hearing loss is a common condition among seniors. As people age, changes in the inner ear and auditory nerves can make it harder to hear high-pitched sounds or follow conversations in noisy environments. However, hearing loss is not always caused solely by aging. Certain medications, known as ototoxic drugs, can also damage the ears and contribute to hearing problems. Seniors …
Apps That Make Communication Easier for People with Hearing Loss
Hearing loss affects millions of people worldwide, ranging from mild difficulties to profound impairment. For those with hearing challenges, communicating in everyday life can be a constant struggle. Simple activities, such as answering the phone, participating in group conversations, attending meetings, or understanding public announcements, can become frustrating and isolating. Misunderstandings may occur more frequently, affecting relationships, work, and overall …
Why Some People Hear “Phantom Sounds” That Aren’t Tinnitus
While most people have heard about ringing in the ears, also known as tinnitus, they are often surprised to find that this isn’t the only phantom sound some experience. A phantom sound occurs when a person perceives a sound in the absence of an actual sound. These sounds can include clicking, rumbling, tapping, whooshing, or even faint musical notes. For …
The Pros and Cons of Invisible Hearing Aids
Wearing hearing aids is a personal choice, as is the type of hearing aid chosen. For many people with hearing loss, their choice of hearing aid is directly related to how they look and feel while wearing them. They want to improve their hearing but might be hesitant to wear a hearing aid that others can easily see. That is …
How Long Does It Take to Adjust to Hearing Aids?
Deciding to get hearing aids is a big decision and one that typically takes someone with hearing loss some time to come to terms with. Very often, once they decide to get hearing aids, the next question they ask is how long it will take for them to adjust to wearing them. While it varies from person to person, there …
Rechargeable Hearing Aids vs. Battery-Operated Hearing Aids: Which Is Better for You?
One of the most common tools for people with hearing loss is a hearing aid. The general technology has improved, especially in how they are powered. These devices offer those with hearing loss the ability to engage socially and communicate with the world at large. Over the last two decades, hearing aid technology has greatly improved, offering models that perform …
Hearing Health in the Elderly: Risks and Prevention
As we age, our bodies go through changes, impacting nearly every one of our senses. This includes our hearing. While hearing loss is one of the most common health conditions affecting older adults, it often goes unnoticed and untreated for years. Our hearing is what allows us to communicate with our family and friends, allows us to remain safe, and …
Exploring Alternative Therapies for Hearing Loss
While many recognize that hearing loss is a common condition, they often fail to realize that it affects millions of people worldwide. And while most recognize that hearing aids and cochlear implants are typical treatments, there are other alternative treatment options. These therapies are non-invasive and focus on holistic approaches. Here we will explore several of these and discuss the …