While these are the most common kinds of hearing tests (audiological evaluations), there is one more test that bears mentioning: Thrive by Cognivue. Thrive is a 6-minute computer-based screening that involves watching a screen and moving a joystick. It’s a simple test to take and doesn’t depend on hearing. It is designed to test five main brain functions: memory, your perception of spatial relationships among objects (visuospatial), executive function, reaction time and processing speed.
With all these different tests available, you can rest assured that the diagnosis for your hearing loss will be identified, no matter the severity or cause.
Excessive production of earwax may also put you at risk for ear infections or earwax impaction. If you notice any discharge or ear drainage (wet or dry ball of wax) or smelly earwax in your ears, seek medical attention right away.
Audiologists and other health care providers use a special light called an otoscope to look into your ears and see if there is an obstruction or if you have a
swollen ear canal. This procedure is known as <a” href=”https://askanaudiologist.com/hearing-loss/otoscopic-examination/”>otoscopic examination, and it can identify
excessive ear wax painlessly and accurately.
There are various methods to address earwax impactions including
ear irrigation, flushing, suction, and manual removal.
What Treatments Are Available For Hearing Loss?
Treatment for hearing loss depends on the kind of hearing loss one is experiencing, so there is no one-size-fits all approach. Hearing tests are conducted in order to determine the best treatment option for each individual. So, what options are there?
Conductive Hearing Loss Treatment:
Though every person is different, in many cases conductive hearing loss can be addressed in one of three ways: surgery, amplification, or medication.
In cases where earwax is the culprit for decreased hearing, an audiologist can perform professional earwax removal (cerumen irrigation, suction, flushing, or manual removal) to address the condition.
Sensorineural Hearing Loss Treatment:
Sensorineural hearing loss can be caused by a wide variety of factors, which means the treatments can also vary widely. The most common type is irreversible sensorineural hearing loss, which can be managed with hearing aids.
There are various types of hearing aids available including behind-the-ear, in-the-ear, in-the-canal, receiver-in-the-ear, CROS or BiCROS.
For severe hearing loss, cochlear implants may be necessary. If you experience sudden hearing loss , it could be considered viral, indicating that treatment with corticosteroids will work. Or if the hearing loss is caused by pressure changes or head trauma, emergency surgery may be required.
Mixed Hearing Loss Treatment:
Audiologists will usually start by treating the conductive issue with surgery or medication and then determine how to best address the sensorineural hearing loss.
Other treatments that could be used in conjunction with the abovementioned methods include speech therapy, aural rehabilitation, cognitive behavioral therapy (for phonophobia and hyperacusis) and Linere tinnitus treatment.
To date, there are various studies ongoing to pave the way for further advancements in hearing technology. From the integration of Artificial Intelligence in hearing aids to hearing loss pills, the future for hearing loss treatment is very promising.
Although using hearing aids will not prevent further hearing loss, it will help to preserve the clarity of your hearing. That is why we encourage everyone to start using hearing aids as soon as you experience hearing loss.
What is the difference between medical grade hearing aids and over-the-counter hearing aids?
Keep in mind that some OTC hearing aids, specifically very
cheap hearing aids, are merely
hearing amplifiers or personal sound amplification products. An audiologist can discuss the advantages of hearing aids versus
hearing amplifiers, and recommend what would work best for your specific hearing loss.
Can Hearing Loss Be Prevented?
The human hearing range is a description of the frequencies and sound levels that we should be able to hear under normal circumstances. When you have any form of hearing loss, your hearing range changes.
Because there are many different ways of experiencing hearing loss, the methods of preventing it will also vary. Though you may not be able to completely prevent hearing loss, you can take steps to protect yourself. Here are a few tips we suggest you follow to protect your hearing as much as possible:
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- Move away from noise sources, such as speakers
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- Visit noisy establishments during their slower times
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- Download a smartphone app to monitor noise levels
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- Learn about a location’s noise level before visiting via online reviews
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- Ask managers to reduce the volume in restaurants, cafes, etc.
Don’t be afraid to stand up for yourself and ask for what you need. Your hearing is vital for your quality of life and being proactive about how you care for your ears can go a long way in protecting yourself from unnecessary harm.
Can an audiologist use an Earigator machine to address hearing loss?
While an Earigator machine is primarily used for safe earwax removal, it may not directly address hearing loss in all cases. Hearing loss can have various causes, including age-related factors, damage to the inner ear, or other medical conditions.
An audiologist’s role in hearing loss management involves assessing the type and degree of hearing loss, recommending appropriate interventions like hearing aids, cochlear implants, or other treatments, and providing ongoing support and care.
If you suspect you have hearing loss, it’s crucial to consult with an audiologist for a comprehensive evaluation and personalized treatment plan tailored to your specific needs.
What Are The Hidden Dangers Of Untreated Hearing Loss?
Untreated hearing loss can impact both your physical and mental well-being. In fact, brain scans have even shown that hearing loss can speed up the process of the brain’s deterioration (atrophy). Good hearing helps with walking and balance, which means that hearing loss can lead to frequent falls.
When untreated, hearing loss can advance to social isolation and even depression. Why? As communication becomes harder and more frustrating, those experiencing hearing loss withdraw more and more, leading to loneliness and isolation. Studies have also shown that severely impaired hearing is five times more likely to cause dementia. Finally, hearing loss could also give rise to tinnitus, a ringing of the ears, which can have a severe impact on sleep and concentration, leading to fatigue.
Audiologists are trained to diagnose and address hearing and balance disorders. They play an integral role in all aspects of hearing loss, from diagnosis, hearing aid fitting, to hearing aid programming, adjustments, and hearing aid maintenance. Audiologists can also monitor your hearing and recommend if there is any need to upgrade your hearing aids.
Hearing Impairment and Hearing Aid Use
Individuals with hearing impairments often face difficulties in communicating and understanding speech.
Hearing aids are are commonly used to improve hearing and enhance communication abilities. They can provide significant benefits to individuals with hearing impairments including improving speech comprehension, enhancing sound awareness, and facilitating better
communication in various settings.
The effectiveness of hearing aids can vary depending on factors such as the level of hearing loss, the hearing aid used, the expertise provided, and the individual’s specific listening requirements.