Need Help? Call Us On +91 97488 99956
Facebook Twitter Instagram Linkedin
Get Free Online Consultation
Shop

Category: Uncategorized

Categories
Uncategorized

Tinnitus – A Complete Guide on the Cause and Treatment

Tinnitus

Tinnitus refers to one of the most common hearing impairments that prevails worldwide. According to Forbes, tinnitus afflicted around 75% of the global population at least once in their lives. Although it is preventable, understanding the symptoms and when to approach audiologists or hearing aid clinics is essential. In the following blog, we will provide you with an end-to-end overview of this hearing impairment, its types, symptoms, causes, and treatments so that you get the right help on time for healthy living.

What is Tinnitus?

Tinnitus refers to an auditory impairment where a person perceives a sound that does not come from external factors. The word originates from the Latin “tinnire” which means “to ring”. Most tinnitus-affected individuals perceive a ringing in their ears, but many also hear a buzz or roar.

This hearing impairment affects both adults and children. Although one can address it with the right treatment and medication, if this impairment lasts for more than 3 months audiologists consider it as chronic. Therefore, once you start facing the symptoms as mentioned in the following, you must consider consulting a reputed audiologist or hearing aid clinic.

What are the Symptoms of Tinnitus?

The symptoms of tinnitus widely differ from one person to another. However, the most common indication of this hearing impairment include:

  • Constant or irregular sound
  • Hear ringing, buzzing, humming, or other noises in the ears
  • Headache or pain in the ears in some cases
  • Variation in sound intensity or frequency
  • Sleep disturbances
  • Anxiety or emotional distress
  • Sensitivity to noise

What are the Different Types of Tinnitus?

Tinnitus comes in four different types including:

  • Subjective tinnitus: It refers to the most common type that results from a disorder in an auditory nerve or the inner ear.
  • Objective tinnitus: It refers to the auditory impairment where a person hears the sound of his/her muscle contraction or pulse. Jaw muscle movement, blood flow in the face/neck, muscle spasms around the middle ear, myoclonus twitching, and other vascular conditions can cause these sounds.
  • Pediatric tinnitus: It refers to hearing impairment due to vascular anomalies affecting ear structures. It commonly affects children.
  • Pulsatile tinnitus: Pulsatile or vascular tinnitus refers to the auditory impairment where an individual hears a sound synchronized with their pulse. Atherosclerosis, altered blood flow, or venous hum can cause this hearing impairment.

What is Tinnitus Caused By?

The primary causes of this hearing impairment include:

  • Abnormal bone growth in the ear (otosclerosis)
  • Age-related hearing issues
  • Blood vessel disorder
  • Consumption of antibiotics, antidepressants, NSAIDs (non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs) and other medicated drugs
  • Earwax blockages or ear infections
  • Eustachian tube dysfunction
  • Exposure to loud noises or noise induced hearing loss
  • Injuries to the brain or ear
  • Lupus, rheumatoid arthritis, or other auto-immune diseases.
  • Ménière’s disease
  • Non-cancerous tumor on the vestibular nerve known as vestibular schwannoma
  • Temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disorders, and more

How is Tinnitus Diagnosed?

Although audiologists detect it from the symptoms themselves, they perform physical examinations to understand the cause of this impairment. This helps them in following the right treatment method to address tinnitus. Some of these examinations include:

  • Audiological (hearing) examination: In a hearing examination, audiologists ask you to sit in a soundproof room and wear specific headphones. These headphones transmit specific sounds into each ear one by one. Based on your auditory perception and comparison with specific parameters, doctors identify the cause of the tinnitus.
  • Blood tests: Audiologists also recommend performing blood examinations to check for anemia, cardiovascular (heart) diseases, thyroid, and other health problems that could have triggered this hearing impairment.
  • Imaging tests: Audiologists may recommend undergoing CT or MRI scans to confirm the cause of this hearing impairment.
  • Movement examination: In this type of examination, audiologists ask you to move your arms, eyes, jaws, and neck. Based on the discomfort you experience in your ears during a particular movement, doctors identify the disorder that needs addressing.

How to Address Tinnitus?

Audiologists prescribe the following treatment to address this issue.

  • Removing earwax: If earwax caused this hearing impairment, then audiologists will suggest removing earwax medically.
  • Treating blood vessels in the ear: A poor blood vessel condition may trigger this hearing impairment. In such cases, doctors may recommend medication or surgery to treat the condition for addressing tinnitus.
  • Hearing aids: Doctors will suggest hearing aids if you get tinnitus due to age-related or noise induced hearing loss. These devices amplify noises to improve auditory perception and reduce tinnitus symptoms.
  • Administering in-ear noise generators: In-ear noise generators transmit white noise that provides relief to tinnitus. Doctors recommend these devices to individuals (especially elders) with incurable tinnitus.
  • Counseling: Audiologists may also recommend Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Tinnitus Retraining Therapy (TRT), or other counseling forms to change the way you perceive this hearing impairment and reduce its effect over time.

When Should You Consult an Audiologist?

Although many individuals do not bother with this hearing impairment, you may consider consulting an audiologist if you:

  • Perceive ringing or other sounds in your ear for more than a week.
  • Experience dizziness or hearing loss due to this impairment.
  • Develop anxiety or depression due to this hearing impairment.
  • Start facing vertigo after this impairment affects you.

Conclusion

In conclusion, tinnitus is a widespread hearing impairment, affecting a significant portion of the global population. Understanding its symptoms, types, causes, and treatments is crucial for timely action and prevention of long-term consequences. Seeking help from audiologists and hearing aid clinics can help in effective management and improved quality of life.

Categories
Uncategorized

Invisible Hearing Aid: Types, Advantages, and Disadvantages

Invisible Hearing Aid

An invisible hearing aid refers to a hearing aid style that sits inside the ear canal of an individual with hearing impairment. These devices have gained high popularity due to their discreteness and almost invisibility when worn. Surprisingly, despite being small, these digital hearing aids are integrated with the most advanced technologies that improve the hearing experience to a great level.

In the following blog, we will discuss the difference between invisible and traditional heaving devices, the types of invisible hearing devices, who should wear them, and a lot more. So let’s get started.

How does an Invisible Hearing Aid differ from a Traditional Hearing Aid?

Some parameters on which invisible hearing devices differ from traditional ones include:

  • Visibility: Invisible hearing devices fit deep in the ear canal. On the other hand, traditional ones sit behind or around the ear.
  • Custom Fit: Invisible hearing devices are custom-made for a precise fit, while traditional ones come in standard sizes.
  • Sound quality: The deeper placement of invisible hearing devices may slightly affect sound compared to traditional aids.
  • Battery and Maintenance: Compared to traditional ones, invisible hearing devices are smaller in size. Hence, they may have shorter battery life and require more delicate maintenance.
  • Suitability: Invisible hearing devices work best for mild to moderate hearing loss. On the other hand, traditional aids support varying degrees of hearing loss.

How does an Invisible Digital Hearing Aid Work?

An invisible hearing aid requires five major components to function. One can find these components in a tiny plastic shell that fits inside the ear canal comfortably. Below we have mentioned these components along with their role:

  • Microphone: The microphone collects sound from the external environment, transforms them into electrical signals, and forwards them to the amplifier.
  • Amplifier: An amplifier boosts the sound waves and forwards them to the DSP for further processing.
  • Digital Signal Processor (DSP): The DSP processes the sound waves to improve sound and speech clarity.
  • Receiver/Speaker: The receiver delivers the processed sound to the ear.
  • Battery: A battery keeps the device working.

Who can use an Invisible Digital Hearing Aid?

Individuals with mild to moderate hearing loss can use these devices. However, many invisible digital hearing aids address severe hearing loss as well.

What are the Different Types of Invisible Hearing Devices?

Invisible hearing aids come in different types. Each of these types offers different features.

  • Invisible in the canal (IIC): Invisible in the canal hearing aids fit deep inside the ear canal. Therefore, they cannot be located from the outside and offer a discreet style to the user. These devices adapt to the external sound environment automatically and work great for minimizing wind noise.
  • Completely in the canal (CIC): Completely in the canal hearing aids fit entirely inside the ear canal. Therefore, they are nearly invisible to outsiders. Due to their custom-design options, they fit any ear and canal shape. Moreover, they come with manual controls that individuals can use to adapt to different external sound environments.
  • In the canal (ITC): In the canal hearing aids sit partly in the ear canal. However, a small part of these devices can hang from the ear. Despite being small, these devices can be custom-made to fit different ear canal shapes. Furthermore, ITC devices have directional microphones that amplify important sounds and minimize irrelevant noise.
  • Miniature receiver in the ear (miniRITE): miniRITE fits easily and comfortably in the ear canal. These invisible hearing aids fit every type of hearing loss. Furthermore, these devices can be connected to smart devices via Bluetooth. They also offer rechargeable battery options.

What are the Advantages of an Invisible Hearing Device?

Invisible hearing devices offer numerous advantages if used as per the directions of a trusted audiologist or hearing aid clinic. The prime benefits of these devices include:

  • Comes in small sizes and camouflaging colors that look discreet in the ear.
  • Do not have external tubes and wires for more discretion.
  • Eliminates wind and other external noise that may affect hearing.
  • Leaves room for inserting external objects like earbuds or stethoscopes in the ear.
  • Provides more natural sound for a better hearing experience.
  • Offers custom-fitting options to provide users with more comfort.

What are the Disadvantages of an Invisible Hearing Device?

On the other hand, these devices also have a set of challenges. Some of the disadvantages of using these devices include:

  • Come with smaller controls that can be hard to see/feel.
  • Do not support binaural coordination for two devices.
  • Have a shorter battery life.
  • May not suit all ear canal shapes.
  • Not all models may support Bluetooth connectivity.
  • Individuals with dexterity may need help handling these devices.

How much does an Invisible Hearing Aid Cost?

The cost of an invisible hearing device depends on the following factors.

  • Integrated technology
  • Inclusive audiology services and warranties
  • Geographical location

However, you can consult a hearing aid clinic to get an estimated cost of your preferred invisible hearing device.

What to check before Selecting an Invisible Hearing Aid?

Before selecting an invisible digital hearing aid we recommend consulting a trusted audiologist or hearing aid clinic. During the consultation, check if your preferred device meets the following parameters:

  • Check if the hearing aid fits you.
  • Analyze which device model and color look discreet in your ear.
  • Ensure the technology integrated with the device improves your hearing experience.
  • Examine which type of battery the device supports – disposable or rechargeable.
  • Note if the preferred device meets your budget.

Conclusion

In conclusion, an invisible hearing aid can be a great solution for individuals facing hearing loss yet who don’t want others to know about it. Yet we suggest consulting a trustworthy audiologist or hearing aid clinic to select the most suitable option for an enhanced hearing experience.

Categories
Uncategorized

Digital Hearing Aid: 10 Modern Technology Applications

Digital Hearing Aid

In the era of technological evolution, digital hearing aid technology has witnessed a significant enhancement in recent years. Integrating modern technology into hearing devices has helped a greater section of the population suffering from hearing loss (around 430 million people according to WHO) improve hearing experience and quality of life. This article will explore the top 10 applications of advanced technologies in hearing devices in detail.

1. Artificial Intelligence (AI)

AI technology is being actively employed in digital hearing aids to improve user experience among people suffering from hearing impairment. Some of the applications of AI in hearing aid include:

  • Employing speech recognition technology to detect common voices and improve speech clarity.
  • Enabling integration with smart devices to allow controlling of hearing devices, adjusting sound settings, and streaming audio remotely.
  • Integrating fitness and wellness functionality to track health progress and workout activities.
  • Incorporating intelligent sound processing technology to reduce background noise in high-noise environments.
  • Using machine learning and deep learning algorithms to deliver intelligent volume control, personalized sound adjustments, and sound preference settings.

2. Bluetooth Connectivity

Similar to modern headphones, individuals can now connect digital hearing devices with their mobile phones and other IoT devices. Therefore, Bluetooth connectivity enables individuals to stream their favorite music, podcasts, and TV shows from their hearing devices. Furthermore, Bluetooth connectivity allows individuals to attend calls using the hearing device. Hence, this wireless technology enhances the listening experience and ensures seamless communication.

3. Binaural Processing Technology

Although the common belief is that one hearing aid is enough for the bad ear, the reality is quite the opposite. Two hearing aids provide the best hearing experience to hearing loss-affected people. The modern binaural process technology acts as a bridge between these two devices. This technology helps the pair of hearing aids to communicate wirelessly and replicate the brain’s ability to process information from both ears for an effective hearing experience.

4. Directional Technologies

Modern hearing devices integrate direction technologies to improve sound and speech clarity in noisy environments. This technology employs directional microphones and motion sensors to focus on sounds from a single direction and eliminate sounds from other directions. Hence, this technology improves the signal-to-noise ratio (SNR) and provides a better, comfortable hearing experience.

5. Environment Detection & Adjustment Automation

Many digital hearing aid come with automatic environment detection and adjustment technology. This technology enables the hearing device to scan the surrounding environment 10,000 times a second based on your movement. Furthermore, they automatically adjust the settings to deliver a clear and natural sound. Hence, with modern hearing aids you no longer have to fine-tune your settings manually again!

6. Noise Reduction & Speech Enhancement Technologies

Modern hearing devices provide noise-reduction technology. This technology uses advanced algorithms and sound processing techniques to detect and eliminate unwanted external noise. The reduction of irrelevant background noise helps to reduce ear strain in noisy surroundings and improve the hearing experience.

Digital hearing aids also use speech-enhancement technology to enhance speech intelligibility. This technology employs deep-learning algorithms to distinguish speech from external noises and ensure speech clarity.

7. Rechargeable Batteries

Digital hearing aids now come with cost-effective and environment-friendly rechargeable lithium-ion batteries. These batteries remove the hassle of replacing tiny batteries. Furthermore, modern hearing devices come with portable charging cases that keep these devices operating all day long.

8. Smart Applications

Modern hearing devices also provide separate applications that individuals can use to change device volume or program right from their mobile phones. These applications can be found in both the App Store (for iOS devices) and Play Store (for Android devices).

9. Telecoil (t-coil)

Telecoil or t-coil refers to a small coil of wire used in hearing aids. This wire picks up electromagnetic signals from compatible devices. Furthermore, it allows direct audio input from phones and public sound systems. Moreover, it reduces background noise and improves sound clarity for individuals suffering from hearing loss. This technology enables clearer communication in noisy environments and enhances the hearing experience for users.

10. Tinnitus Masking

Modern digital hearing aid integrated with tinnitus masking/management features can relieve individuals with ringing in the ears. These devices enable audiologists or hearing aid clinics to customize and deliver a soothing sound stimulus that helps manage and relieve tinnitus.

Conclusion

In the upcoming years, digital hearing aids will provide greater features and functionality to users due to advancements in technology. Not only will devices address common hearing issues like tinnitus but will improve the hearing experience for those with severe or permanent hearing impairment. However, before using any such technologically advanced hearing devices, individuals must consult with their audiologists or hearing aid clinics for the best experience.

Categories
Uncategorized

Hearing Impairment: 4Ps of Hearing Loss and Solutions

Hearing Impairment

Hearing impairment is the partial or complete inability to perceive sounds accurately that has affected numerous people worldwide. According to the World Health Organization’s (WHO) latest report “World Report on Hearing”, over 1.5 billion people have hearing impairments. The report further states that out of the 1.5 billion people, 430 million have moderate to higher levels of hearing loss and can be affected severely unless conditions are addressed on time. To effectively manage hearing loss and find the right solution, you must understand the different categories of the 4 Ps of hearing loss.

These 4 Ps provide an overview of the different levels of hearing impairment and help in selecting the right hearing aid to address the condition. However, you must always consult a hearing aid clinic to understand your issue better and get the right solution. In the following blog, we will categorize the 4 Ps of hearing loss and also suggest the type of hearing aid that you can use to improve auditory perception.

1. Progressive Hearing Loss

Progressive hearing loss refers to a hearing impairment where a person loses his or her hearing ability over some time. This hearing loss often surfaces in the form of mild hearing inability but worsens over time.

Causes of Progressive Hearing Loss

Progressive hearing loss can occur due to:

  • Age-related changes
  • Exposure to high noise
  • Genetics
  • Specific medical conditions

2. Painless Hearing Loss

Painless hearing loss refers to hearing inability that does not result in any discomfort or pain in the ears. Therefore, painless hearing loss can affect a person gradually and subtly but with severe effects. Furthermore, this hearing ailment can often go unnoticed until a person faces significant issues while communicating.

Causes of Painless Hearing Loss

The most common factors that can cause painless hearing impairment include:

  • Aging specifically presbycusis
  • Genetical reasons
  • High noise exposure
  • Ototoxic medications
  • Specific medical conditions

3. Permanent Hearing Loss

Permanent hearing loss refers to the long-term hearing impairment caused by unalterable damage to the auditory system. Unlike progressive, painless, and preventable hearing loss, medical treatment or interventions cannot address permanent hearing impairment completely. Therefore, this hearing loss can severely affect communication, emotional well-being, and social interaction.

Causes of Permanent Hearing Loss

Some of the factors that may cause permanent hearing loss include:

  • Aging
  • Autoimmune inner ear disease (AIED)
  • Genetics
  • Infections like measles, meningitis, mumps, or otitis media
  • Injuries to the head or skull
  • Prolonged or repeated exposure to loud noises
  • Ototoxic medications
  • Unaddressed tumors like acoustic neuromas

4. Preventable Hearing Loss

Preventable hearing loss refers to a hearing impairment that can be addressed through preventive measures and timely medical treatment. Individuals who have preventable hearing loss must consult with audiologists or hearing aid clinics to receive instructions on how to implement the right strategies to minimize and manage hearing loss.

Causes of Preventable Hearing Loss

The following parameters can result in preventable hearing loss:

  • Exposure to excessive noise
  • Subjection to ototoxic substances
  • Irregular check-ups and delayed treatment
  • Neglect of hearing protection devices

How Hearing Aids can address Hearing Impairment?

Although hearing aids may not cure the 4 Ps of hearing loss, they can help improve auditory perception and deliver the following benefits:

1. Amplifying sounds:

Hearing aids amplify specific frequencies to improve speech comprehension and inaudible/faint sound perception. Hence, hearing aid devices significantly improve the clarity of conversations and sounds even in noisy environments. Furthermore, they also reduce the strain related to hearing and perceiving audio on hearing loss-affected individuals.

2. Dealing with anxiety, depression, and social anxiety:

According to a study by the Cleveland Clinic’s Center for Geriatric Medicine, hearing loss can lead to depression and isolation. When individuals fail to hear conversations and noises around them, they withdraw from numerous daily activities. Furthermore, hearing loss can also lead to depression, according to the International Journal of Geriatric Psychiatry (2003).

Hearing aids can improve the auditory perception of individuals and encourage them to engage in daily and social activities. Hence, these devices can bring people out of isolation and loneliness caused due to hearing loss.

3. Maintaining cognitive abilities:

According to a NHI report, older adults suffering from hearing impairment have developed dementia over time. The report further states that the administration of hearing aids can not only improve hearing ability but also reduce the development of cognitive problems.

4. Reducing accidents:

According to a study in The Journal of the American Geriatric Society, adults over 60 years with hearing impairment in both ears fall more. The study further states that using hearing aids can reduce the chances of falling by 2.4 times.

Apart from that, hearing aids can help individuals improve their perception of traffic sounds, alarms, and other environmental cues. This can reduce the chances of accidents caused by hearing loss to a great extent.

5. Prolonged living:

According to a study by the Lancet Healthy Longevity Journal, American adults who use hearing aids regularly to address auditory impairment have lower chances of dying. Furthermore, the University of Southern California also conducted a study that surveyed 10,000 participants. The research stated that individuals who use hearing aids regularly have a 24% lower chance of early death compared to those who do not.

Conclusion

Therefore, to address auditory impairment it is important to understand the 4 Ps of hearing loss and get the right solution. Technological advancement in hearing aids and the numerous treatment options have provided hope to people suffering from this impairment. However, to effectively address this issue, you must consult with a reputed hearing aid clinic or audiologist on time. Since it can enhance communication, improve quality of life, and promote hearing health.

Categories
Uncategorized

Types of Hearing Aid: 10 Options to Choose From

Types of Hearing Aid

Different types of hearing aids have risen in demand due to the astonishing number of people suffering from hearing loss. According to the latest report from WHO, around 430 million people, out of which 34 million are children, require medical support and hearing aids to address hearing loss. But will one solution fit every individual’s needs? That is quite unlikely.

Finding the perfect hearing aid depends upon several factors. The prime ones include hearing loss severity, shape/size of ears, and personal preferences. All these factors decide which type of hearing will suit you the best.

Primarily, there are ten types of hearing aid styles. Let us explore them in detail.

1. Behind the ear (BTE) devices

The first in the list of prime types of hearing aids is “behind the ear” (BTE) devices. BTE devices refer to hearing aid solutions that fit at the visible part of the ear outside your head (usually called the auricle). These devices comprise a case, a dome tip/earmold, and a tube. The tube connects the case with the dome tip or the earmold. The case houses a battery, controls, microphone(s), and loudspeaker/receiver.

Furthermore, BTE devices come in different sizes, ranging from small to larger, ultra-powerful devices. Although you can use these devices for any hearing loss severity, we recommend consulting a reputed hearing aid clinic for the right solution.

2. CROS/BiCROS devices

The second in the list of prime types of hearing aids is CROS/BiCROS devices. Contralateral Routing of Signal (CROS) and Bilateral microphones with Contralateral Routing of Signal (BiCROS) devices refer to solutions that transfer auditory information from one part of the head to another. Hearing aid clinics recommend CROS devices to people with hearing issues on one side and perfect hearing on the other side. BiCROS devices are effective for those having hearing loss on one side and moderate hearing on the other side.

Both these solutions come with a device and a microphone. Hearing aid clinics put the device on the side where you can listen normally and a microphone on the side with good or moderate hearing. The device transmits the information to the microphone. This transmission lets you hear clearly and localize sound from the affected side.

3. In the canal (ITC)

The third in the list of prime types of hearing aids is “in the canal” (ITC) solutions. These solutions fit deeply into ear canals compared to ITE devices. However, earwax can often clog the device’s speaker, and this can lead to hearing issues. Due to their small sizes, they comprise smaller batteries and are less visible. Despite its small size, ITC may be difficult to adjust and handle. This type of hearing aid helps people with less to moderate hearing loss.

4. In the ear (ITE)

The fourth in the list of prime types of hearing aids is “in the ear (ITE)” devices. ITE devices come in two main categories – full shell and half shell. The full shell ITE fits entirely in the outer ear’s bowl-shaped area. On the other hand, the half shell only covers the lower part of the bowl-shaped area. These solutions comprise larger batteries and directional microphones. Clinics recommend ITE devices for people having moderate to severe hearing issues.

5. Receiver in the ear (RITE)

The fifth in the list of prime types of hearing aids is “receiver in the ear (RITE)” devices. These hearing aid solutions are similar to “behind the ear” devices. However, unlike BTE, the speaker/receiver of this device is fitted in the ear canal instead of a shell. A soft tube called a dome connects the device to the ear. The dome does not seal the ear canal and lets the sound naturally flow in and out of the ear. These devices can help improve mild to severe hearing loss.

6. Receiver in the canal (RIC)

The last in the list of prime types of hearing aids is “receiver in the canal (RIC)” devices. RITE has a similar style to BTE. These devices have a directional microphone, speaker/receiver, and a wire. The wire connects the microphone to the speaker/receiver that fits in the ear canal. Furthermore, it comes with manual controls that offer greater control to the users.

Additional Types of Hearing Aids

Some additional types of hearing aids include:

  • Bone-anchored (BAHA) devices
  • Completely in the canal (or Mini CIC) devices
  • Invisible devices
  • Open fit devices

Conclusion

So those were the prime types of hearing aids at a glance. To select the right hearing aid for you or your loved ones, you must consult with an experienced hearing aid clinic. For more details and information on hearing aids, do not forget to follow our blog.

Categories
Uncategorized

Ringing in the Ear-Tinnitus

Tinnitus

Tinnitus relates to experiencing ringing or other noises in one ear or in both ears. The noise which we hear when we have tinnitus isn’t caused by an external sound. Tinnitus is a common problem. It affects nearly 15% to 20% of people, it’s more common in older adults.
It is usually caused by an underlying condition which can be age-related hearing loss, an ear injury or it might be a problem with the circulatory system. Many people do mention the fact that tinnitus improves with treatment of the underlying cause. There can be other treatments such as reducing or masking the noise, making tinnitus less noticeable.
Tinnitus is quite often described as ringing in the ears, even though there is no external sound is present. However, tinnitus can also cause other types of noises in our ears, including:
• Buzzing
• Roaring
• Clicking
• Hissing
• Humming
Many people complain of subjective tinnitus or tinnitus that only one can hear. The noises of tinnitus may vary in volume. It can be a low roar to a high level of sound, which can be heard in one or both ears. In some cases, the sound can be so loud it affects the level of concentration or hearing external sound. Tinnitus can be present at all the time, while might be cases when it comes and go.
Tinnitus is generally not a permanent condition. Many times it might go off permanently without any intervention. In quite a few cases, the tinnitus disappears after a few weeks, or even a few days depending on the possible reasons behind it.

However, tinnitus gets cured on its own. In many cases, it is suggestive to wait around so that after a passage of time tinnitus gets stopped. But in cases when people experience the signs and symptoms of tinnitus for a long period of time. It continues for over a few weeks and months it is highly recommended to consult a Doctor for expert advice.

It is always advisable to seek advice at an early stage. This always provides a higher opportunity to get cured and reduce the problem faster. As it is common saying prevention better than cure.
Many times along with Tinnitus people suffer from Hearing Loss. People exposed to loud sound exposure does complain of hearing loss along with tinnitus. Though it’s a fact that mild tinnitus will get cured by itself relatively quickly. But the continued experience of tinnitus is an indication of more severe hearing loss problems. There are quite a few options available to manage this problem. Solutions such as Tinnitus Matching and Mapping are taken up at the initial level to identify the level of sound at which the Tinnitus is happening.

Tinnitus Retraining Therapy (TRT) is one of the solutions. The patient post-matching is provided regular sound-aided therapy to musk the tinnitus sound. The result varies based on the patient’s severity of the problem and the time duration for which it is undertaken. Hearing Aids are quite useful for tinnitus sufferers who also have problems with hearing loss. The patient does have difficulty in understanding speech. They inform although they are not able to hear the external sound, there is the presence of an unusual sound which is quite disturbing. The severity of this sound also varies from case to case.

Hearing Aids does work as an ideal solution for many cases where people suffer from Hearing Loss and Tinnitus. But it’s not a solution for all cases. Many a time external Tinnitus maskers especially when people do not suffer from Hearing Loss but have tinnitus works. TRT has been a useful solution in controlling the tinnitus effect. The result of TRT is more on the positive side when it is done for a long period. The blend of all these methods can also be chosen.

Studies suggest that around 50% of people with Tinnitus suffer from Hearing Loss as well. People in this category can go for Hearing Aids with a specialized Tinnitus Management program for better results. 10% of people have extreme levels of tinnitus. The sounds in this case are externally audible. The results are more effective in cases of early diagnosis and treatment.

There are cases when their chances of ignorance. People do not provide much importance to the problem at its nascent stage. Consulting the Audiologist at an early stage provide the opportunity to explore the multiple options in which the problem can be treated. It needs to be mentioned Tinnitus does have a chance of recurrence.
In most cases, the audiologist would go for a combination of tinnitus treatments which includes sound therapy, sound maskers, counseling, medication, and other forms of treatment. A multi-disciplinary approach when the problem has reached a severe level.

Arrangements can be made to prevent tinnitus from becoming more pronounced. This includes reducing exposure to loud noises. Infections in the ears and excessive wax can sometimes result in Tinnitus. It is highly recommended to consult a Doctor to get the necessary advice and medication procedure in such cases.

Stress anxiety complicates the Tinnitus problem. People having a stressful life do complain of Tinnitus. Yoga, Relaxation therapy can be useful ways to counter stress which reduces the chances of tinnitus.

Lastly, it needs to be mentioned that there are quite a few ways to deal with the problem. Before going for any treatment it is advisable to consult a Doctor and thereafter if required to seek the help of an Audiologist. It is not all advisable to take up self-treatment without any expert advice.

Categories
Uncategorized

Noise Pollution and Hearing Loss

hearing loss

Noise has become an eternal part of our daily life. Hooting cars, Loudspeakers, and Listening to music using headphones are very common. Do we realize that exposure to loud sound does have permanent damage to our hearing Capacity? Not all sounds we are exposed to can be considered noise pollution. The World Health Organization (WHO) mentions that noise above 65 decibels (dB) is noise pollution. Further, it can be said that noise level becomes harmful when it exceeds 75 decibels (dB) and is more painful above 120 DB. It is always advised noise levels be kept below 65 dB during the day. During the night restful sleep is impossible when ambient noise levels are in excess of 30 DB.

United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP) website does some staggering reports. The report identifies that out of the 13 most polluted cities in South Asia 5 of them belongs to India. Noise pollution affects the animal species ability to hear. Regular exposure for more than 8 hours a day can permanently damage hearing ability.

Hearing loss is decreases the ability to hear and understand. It happens when the nerves that connect the brain do not work properly. Sometimes, hearing loss can be temporary. This temporary can turn to permanent damage when the damage happens on a regular basis. Exposure to Loud noise is particularly harmful to the middle and inner
ear. The cochlea located in the inner ear contains millions of hair cells. Exposure to Loud noise can damage the hair cells and membranes in the cochlea. Loud noise exposure for a long time does overwork hair cells in the inner ear, ultimately these cells get damaged or die. The hearing loss continues to increase as the exposure continues

If we have gone to watch a music concert, IPL, Football match, DJ where we have listened to loud sounds for along period. A common sign is generally observed that post leaving that place the hearing tends to be a little dull and inaudible. It becomes difficult to hear whispers, it might seem muffled. People tend to complain of ringing in the ears. Normal hearing tends to return within a few hours to a few days. The hair cells are very similar to blades of grass, they bend more as the sound is louder. They again become straight after a recovery period.

It needs to be mentioned here that loud noise damages too many of the hair cells, there are high chances some of them will get permanently damaged or die. Continuous exposure to loud noises will over a long period of time destroy many hair cells. This effect will gradually reduce the ability to understand speech, especially in noisy places. Eventually, if the hearing loss continues it will be progressive in nature. It will be difficult to understand speech even in quieter places.

The damage of hair cells also damages the auditory nerve that carries information to our brain. Early damages are generally not indicated in the Hearing Test or Audiometry Test. It creates ‘hidden hearing loss’ it becomes difficult to understand speech in a noisy area. The effect of loud noise over time does have a futuristic aspect. Once the damage is permanently affected it is impossible to recover. Even if the exposure to loud sounds has stopped then also the hair cells which have died cannot be rework able.

Probably the information does make us aware of the ill effects of loud sound exposure. It will be always advisable to avoid loud sounds as much as possible. People who are exposed to loud sounds due to their work requirements should go for protective devices such as Ear Muffs and Earplugs as protection. Further, it will always advisable to go for Hearing Test once a year to know if there is any form of detrition. It should always remember protection always better than cure.

Audiologist and Speech Language Pathologist
Mrs. Arpita Niyogi

©2022. Sravani Hearing Aid Clinic | All Rights Reserved | By Xpress Web Studio
Terms & Conditions | Privacy Policy | Shipping Policy | Return Policy