Frequently Asked Questions: ABOUT HEARING LOSS

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Do you hear but can't understand?
For impaired listeners, speech may be both audible and comfortable only over a small range of sound levels. One of the best solutions is a hearing system which can automatically adjust to different sounds and speakers. This relatively new technology can be programmed to assist you with your individual hearing loss and can be reprogrammed as your hearing needs change.

Are you concerned about sudden hearing loss?
"Sudden hearing loss" is dramatic and upsetting. The term usually refers to sudden onset of "nerve" or sensorineural loss, almost always in one ear only and often accompanied by some dizziness and tinnitus (ear noise).

Viral infection, with or without a history of cold or flu, and vascular disruptions from any interruption of the blood supply to the ear are felt to be the most common causes. But, simple ear wax or barotrama (from changes in barometric pressure following an airplane flight) can cause similar symptom. Partial or total recovery may occur in a few days or even a few months. In other cases, the hearing loss is permanent. Proper medical and hearing evaluation should be obtained as soon as possible so that diagnosis and immediate treatment can be begun.

Can noise damage my ears?
To reach the brain, sounds enter your outer ear and strike the eardrum; vibrations continue to deep inside the inner ear, where they pass over 30,000 microscopic "hair-like" cells.

Decibel and duration overloads kill your tiny, irreplaceable "hair cells". This may occur suddenly in an explosion, such as the use of firearms, or gradually, if you don't guard your ears against the source of too much noise.

Why do my ears ring?
If noises such as ringing, roaring, hissing or even the sound of "crickets" and "cicadas" bother you--but no one else hears it-- you are not alone.

Tinnitus is the term for "head noises" ranging from very mild to very loud and so annoying that the victim hears little else. It can be persistent, intermittent or throbbing, depending on the cause. Tinnitus does not cause hearing loss, but it often accompanies it. Often tinnitus occurs alone. There are many causes (even ear wax) and a variety of treatment methods.

The first step is a professional evaluation. including medical and audiological evaluation and tinnitus measurement. Only then can recommendations be made to provide relief for the tinnitus sufferer.

Can wax block my hearing?
Yes it can! Ear wax is formed about one-third of the way into the ear canal. It is supposed to move out of the ear along with skin cells that move off of the ear drum and migrate out of the ear canal. However, sometimes too vigorous cleaning with a cotton swab strips away skin oil mad makes the process break down. Blockage can result. Hearing evaluation in my office includes seeing inside your own ear using a video otoscope which produces an image or picture of your ear canal and eardrum on a TV screen. Appropriate follow-up steps can then be taken.