Hearing loss can be frustrating and, in some cases, concerning. It can affect your ability to communicate, enjoy music, and stay engaged in conversations. The good news? Some types of hearing loss are reversible, depending on the cause. Early detection and treatment can make a big difference in restoring or preserving your hearing. Let’s explore the different causes and whether they can be treated.Earwax

Buildup: Reversible
Earwax is essential for protecting and cleaning your ears, but too much of it can block sound. If you use cotton swabs, you might be pushing wax deeper, leading to temporary hearing loss. This buildup can make sounds seem muffled and may even cause discomfort or a feeling of fullness in the ear.

Treatment:
• Try home remedies like a few drops of mineral or baby oil to soften the wax.
• Over-the-counter ear drops can help, but avoid hydrogen peroxide if you have dry ears.
• If home treatments don’t work or if you have diabetes, consult a doctor for professional removal.

Ear Infections: Reversible
A common cause of temporary hearing loss, ear infections trap fluid in the middle ear, creating an ideal environment for bacteria to grow. This can lead to pain, pressure, and difficulty hearing, similar to the sensation of having water stuck in your ear.

Treatment:
• Some infections resolve on their own, while others may require antibiotics.
• If infections occur frequently, ear tubes can help drain fluid and prevent further issues, especially in children.

Sudden Hearing Loss: Usually Reversible
If your hearing suddenly drops in one or both ears, it might be sudden sensorineural hearing loss (SSHL). About half of people with SSHL recover naturally within a couple of weeks.

Treatment:
• Corticosteroid pills or injections can help restore hearing.
• If an underlying cause is found, treating it alongside steroids may improve recovery.

Age-Related Hearing Loss: Not Reversible
Hearing often declines gradually with age due to changes in the inner ear. Long-term exposure to loud noises, such as music through headphones, can also contribute.
While the damage to inner ear hair cells is permanent, hearing aids and other assistive devices can help improve your ability to hear and communicate.

Talk to a Doctor About Your Hearing
If you’re experiencing hearing loss, a healthcare professional can determine the cause and recommend the best treatment. You may be referred to:
• An audiologist for hearing tests and treatment.
• An ear, nose, and throat (ENT) doctor for medical evaluation.
• A hearing aid specialist to explore amplification options.

If you’re concerned about your hearing, don’t wait—early intervention can make all the difference! Please schedule your hearing assessment / checkup with Southern Nevada Audiology today! Learn more about the advancements in modern hearing aids.

Navigating social gatherings during the holiday season can be challenging if you have hearing loss. To fully enjoy the Christmas spirit and make the most of these special moments, here are some tips to enhance your listening experience.

First and foremost, if you have SNA hearing aids, make sure to wear them to your holiday events. Hearing aids are specifically designed to help you focus on conversations, reduce background noise, and minimize distortion, making it easier to connect with loved ones. Once you’ve put them on, consider these additional tips to make your Christmas and holiday season even brighter.

Tips for Enjoying Holiday Gatherings with Hearing Loss

Seek a Quiet Spot
Position yourself away from loudspeakers and bustling areas like the kitchen, as these spaces are often filled with distracting noise. Instead, look for a quieter area where you can better focus on conversations with family and friends. Let your host know ahead of time that you’d prefer a calm corner to relax and socialize. This simple adjustment can make a big difference in your ability to engage.

Maximize Visibility
Seeing the faces and gestures of those speaking can significantly aid in lipreading and understanding speech. Choose a seat with a clear view of others, especially at the dinner table. Ensure the area has good lighting, as shadows or dim light can make it harder to follow conversations. If large centerpieces or decorations obstruct your view, politely ask for them to be moved so everyone can see each other better.

Team Up with a Buddy
Find a supportive friend or family member who understands your needs and can help by repeating or clarifying parts of the conversation you might miss. They can also assist in bridging conversations in noisy environments. Knowing you have someone to rely on helps you feel more confident and included in the festivities.

Adjust the Background Music
While holiday music creates a cozy atmosphere, it’s best to keep it at a low volume to prevent it from competing with conversations. Politely suggest turning the music down when people are actively talking. After all, meaningful conversations are just as important to the holiday spirit as the music itself.

Delay Dish Cleanup
The clatter of dishes and the hum of kitchen activity can be very distracting, especially for those with hearing loss. Ask your host to hold off on dishwashing until after the guests leave so the focus remains on enjoying the meal and good company. This small delay not only minimizes noise but also keeps the social atmosphere intact.

Turn Off the Television
Background TV noise can make it significantly harder to hear and follow conversations. Suggest turning off the television during meals or group gatherings to eliminate this distraction. It’s a simple step that encourages everyone to be more present and engaged with one another.

By taking these steps, you can create a more inclusive and enjoyable environment for everyone at your holiday gatherings.

Are you or a loved one finding it difficult to follow conversations this Christmas? Don’t let hearing challenges dampen your holiday joy. Contact our SNA audiologist today to schedule a hearing checkup. This year, give the gift of better hearing and make every moment more meaningful.

As we honor Veterans Day, we recognize the sacrifices and service of the millions of U.S. veterans who have bravely defended our country. Their commitment is not only a source of pride but also a reminder of our duty to care for them upon their return. One area often overlooked in veteran healthcare is audiology, which addresses hearing and balance issues that many veterans face after active duty.

Why Audiology Care Matters for Veterans
The connection between military service and hearing health issues is significant. Veterans are exposed to high-decibel environments such as combat zones, aircraft, and heavy machinery. Prolonged exposure to these intense sounds can lead to noise-induced hearing loss, tinnitus, and other auditory challenges. In fact, hearing loss and tinnitus are the two most common service-related disabilities among veterans, affecting nearly 1.3 million veterans each year.

Audiology care for veterans goes beyond just hearing aids and treatment for tinnitus. It encompasses a range of services that include prevention, diagnosis, and rehabilitation for hearing and balance issues. Addressing these challenges can improve the quality of life for veterans, helping them stay connected with loved ones, manage stress, and maintain independence.

Common Audiological Issues for Veterans
Noise-Induced Hearing Loss (NIHL): Constant exposure to loud noises, often above 85 decibels, is common in military settings. Hearing damage can occur almost instantly during training or in combat scenarios, leading to long-term hearing issues.

Tinnitus: Often described as a ringing, buzzing, or hissing sound, tinnitus is frequently reported among veterans. This persistent sound can disrupt daily activities and sleep, leading to fatigue, anxiety, and difficulty focusing.

Vestibular (Balance) Disorders: Certain roles and duties in the military expose veterans to vibrations, blasts, and physical impacts that can affect the inner ear’s balance system. Vestibular disorders can cause dizziness, vertigo, and difficulty maintaining equilibrium, complicating day-to-day life.

Hyperacusis: Increased sensitivity to sound is another challenge veterans may face, particularly if they have experienced traumatic or high-stress environments. Hyperacusis can make it uncomfortable for them to be around normal levels of noise, making social situations difficult.

The Role of Audiologists in Veterans’ Care
Audiologists are instrumental in diagnosing, treating, and managing hearing and balance disorders in veterans. By performing assessments and utilizing advanced technologies, audiologists can tailor treatment plans to the specific needs of each veteran, addressing not only the hearing issues but also any related emotional and psychological effects.

For instance, audiologists can provide specialized hearing aids, tinnitus management strategies, and balance rehabilitation programs. These services can be life-changing, helping veterans regain the ability to engage fully with family, friends, and their communities.

Recognizing Veterans Day with a Commitment to Hearing Health
This Veterans Day, let’s honor the service of U.S. veterans by recognizing the importance of audiology care in their health journey. While a simple thank you is always meaningful, we can go a step further by advocating for expanded audiology services, supporting veterans’ access to care, and raising awareness about the prevalence of hearing issues among veterans.

Veterans have given so much to protect and serve us. As a society, we can give back by ensuring they have the care and support they need, including the audiology services that can make a lasting difference in their lives. Whether through donations, supporting veteran-focused healthcare initiatives, or simply spreading the word, we can all play a part in honoring veterans’ service on Veterans Day and beyond.

October is Audiology Awareness Month, a time dedicated to raising awareness about the importance of hearing health. As audiologists in Las Vegas, we see firsthand how vital hearing is to your overall well-being. From daily conversations to enjoying music or alarms signaling safety, healthy hearing is an essential part of life. But many people overlook their hearing health until issues arise. Let’s break down the importance of prioritizing your hearing and how you can take proactive steps to protect it.

Why Should You Care About Hearing Health?

Hearing loss is more common than you might think. According to the World Health Organization, over 430 million people worldwide have disabling hearing loss. The scary part? Hearing damage is often irreversible, but it can be preventable with the right care.

1. Early Detection Prevents Long-Term Damage

Hearing loss can be gradual, meaning you may not notice it until it significantly impacts your life. This is why regular check-ups are key. Early detection of hearing issues allows us to address potential problems before they worsen. Think of it like vision: You wouldn’t wait until you couldn’t see the board to get glasses, right?

2. Hearing Affects Cognitive Health

Research shows that untreated hearing loss can lead to cognitive decline. When your brain is constantly trying to fill in the gaps from missed sounds, it works overtime, which can lead to mental fatigue. Over time, this strain may contribute to conditions like dementia. Taking care of your ears isn’t just about hearing — it’s about keeping your mind sharp too.

3. The Impact of Untreated Hearing Loss on Relationships

Hearing loss can make everyday communication frustrating, leading to misunderstandings or withdrawal from social situations. This strain can affect relationships with family, friends, and coworkers. Addressing hearing loss early on can improve your quality of life and keep you connected to the people you care about.

When Should You Get Your Hearing Checked?

A good rule of thumb is to have your hearing checked at least once a year, especially if you:

• Have a family history of hearing loss
• Are regularly exposed to loud environments (e.g., concerts, machinery, or even loud music through headphones)
• Notice signs of hearing changes, such as ringing in your ears (tinnitus), difficulty hearing in noisy environments, or frequently asking people to repeat themselves

How You Can Protect Your Hearing

1. Use Hearing Protection

If you’re frequently around loud noise, wearing earplugs or noise-canceling headphones can be a game-changer. Whether you’re at a concert, working in construction, or simply mowing the lawn, protecting your ears from loud sounds reduces the risk of noise-induced hearing loss.

2. Take Listening Breaks

For those who use headphones often, especially at high volumes, it’s important to give your ears a rest. Follow the 60/60 rule: listen at 60% of the maximum volume for no more than 60 minutes at a time.

3. Schedule Regular Hearing Screenings

Don’t wait until you notice a problem. A hearing check is quick and painless, and it gives you valuable information about your ear health. Even if your hearing is normal, keeping track of it over time helps establish a baseline.

Audiology: More Than Just Hearing Aids

As audiologists, we provide a wide range of services beyond prescribing hearing aids. We can help with tinnitus management, balance disorders, and custom hearing protection solutions. We work closely with patients to ensure their hearing needs are met in a way that complements their lifestyle.

The Bottom Line

This Audiology Awareness Month, take the opportunity to reflect on your hearing health. Whether you’ve never had a hearing check or are already using hearing aids, maintaining regular appointments with an audiologist is an essential step toward preserving your quality of life. Hearing loss is preventable and treatable — so let’s work together to keep your hearing healthy!

If you have concerns about your hearing or would like to schedule a hearing test, contact us today. Remember, protecting your ears now can make all the difference later.

Summer is a season of fun and adventure, but it can be challenging for hearing aid users due to the sensitivity of these devices to heat and moisture. The combination of hot, humid weather and outdoor activities like beach outings and swimming increases the risk of damage. Intense heat can impact the internal components, casing, and batteries of hearing aids, while moisture can compromise their performance and longevity.

However, you can still enjoy the season by taking a few precautions to protect your hearing aids. Here are some essential tips to keep your devices safe while you soak up the sunshine and enjoy your summer activities.

Tips to Keep Your Hearing Aids Safe This Summer

Remove Your Hearing Aids for Swimming

Cooling off in a swimming pool or the ocean is refreshing, but water can damage your hearing aids. Always remove them before swimming, snorkeling, or paddling in the sea. Store your hearing aids in a safe, secure container, and keep the container out of direct sunlight to prevent heat damage.

Keep Your Hearing Aids in a Cool, Dry Place

When you remove your hearing aids, place them in a suitable case in a dry, cool location. Avoid leaving them on surfaces exposed to direct sunlight or moisture. For example, if you’re sunbathing at a resort, put your hearing aids in a container within your bag in the shade or take them back to your room.

Apply Sun Lotion Before Putting Your Hearing Aids In

Sun lotion helps protect your skin, but it can clog your hearing aids and affect their performance. Apply sunscreen before inserting your hearing aids to reduce the risk of lotion getting into the components. The same rule applies to insect repellent.

Clean and Disinfect Your Hearing Aids Frequently

Summer means more time outdoors exploring forests, lakes, parks, and beaches. After outdoor activities, it’s essential to clean and disinfect your hearing aids regularly. When you return home, wipe them down, check the parts, and use disinfectant wipes to ensure they are clean before placing them back in your ears.

Use a Dehumidifier

Frequent transitions between warm, humid outdoor environments and cool, air-conditioned spaces can cause sweating and condensation in your hearing aids. Using a dehumidifier helps remove moisture from the air, protecting your devices from damage.

Use Hearing Aid Covers

If you have behind-the-ear (BTE) hearing aids, consider using covers in the summer. These covers or sheaths protect the devices from dirt, sweat, dust, and moisture.

Take Your Hearing Aids Out for Adventurous Activities

Summer is ideal for adventurous activities like visiting theme parks, surfing, river rafting, or rock climbing. During such activities, it’s best to remove your hearing aids to prevent them from coming loose and falling out.

Summer is a fantastic time of year but presents specific challenges for hearing aid users. Protect your hearing aids from heat and moisture by storing them in a cool, dry place, reducing exposure to sunlight, using a dehumidifier, and keeping them clean.

By following these tips, you can enjoy all that summer has to offer without compromising the performance and longevity of your hearing aids.

Please schedule your hearing assessment / checkup with Southern Nevada Audiology today! Learn more about the advancements in modern hearing aids.