Author: David Morse

Encouraging someone to get hearing aids can be a sensitive topic, as hearing loss can be a gradual and sometimes emotionally challenging experience. However, helping someone realize the benefits of hearing aids and supporting them through the process can significantly improve their quality of life. Here are some strategies to encourage someone to consider getting hearing aids:

1. Empathize and Listen: Start by empathizing with the person and acknowledging the challenges they might be facing due to their hearing loss. Be a good listener and allow them to express their feelings and concerns about getting hearing aids. Understanding their perspective will help you tailor your approach to their specific needs.
2. Educate Them on the Benefits: Many people may not fully comprehend the advantages of hearing aids. Explain how hearing aids can enhance their overall well-being by improving communication, social interactions, and safety. Share success stories of others who have benefited from using hearing aids, and highlight how they can regain lost connections and experiences.
3. Accompany Them to a Hearing Evaluation: Offer to accompany the individual to a hearing evaluation conducted by a qualified audiologist. A professional evaluation will determine the extent of their hearing loss and whether hearing aids are appropriate for their situation. Being there to support them during this process can provide reassurance and reduce any anxiety they may have.
4. Address Concerns and Misconceptions: Some individuals may have misconceptions or fears about wearing hearing aids, such as discomfort or aesthetics. Address these concerns and explain that modern hearing aids are discreet, comfortable, and come with various features to suit different lifestyles.
5. Emphasize Independence and Safety: Highlight the importance of maintaining independence and safety, especially in daily activities and emergency situations. Hearing aids can help individuals stay aware of their surroundings, improving their ability to hear alarms, doorbells, and approaching vehicles.
6. Include Family and Friends: Enlist the support of family members and close friends to encourage the person to consider hearing aids. A united front can demonstrate the collective concern for their well-being and the desire to see them fully engaged in life.
7. Offer Trial Periods: Some people may be hesitant to commit to hearing aids without experiencing them firsthand. Encourage them to try a trial period with hearing aids to see how they adapt to the amplification and how it positively impacts their daily life.
8. Patience and Support: Be patient throughout the process, as it may take time for someone to accept the idea of wearing hearing aids. Offer ongoing support, answer any questions they have, and celebrate their progress as they become more comfortable with the idea of using hearing aids.

Remember that the decision to get hearing aids is a personal one, and individuals should feel empowered to make the choice that feels right for them. By providing understanding, education, and encouragement, you can help someone with hearing loss take positive steps towards a better hearing experience and improved overall well-being.

If you are your loved one are thinking about hearing aids, give Tim Harmon and his staff at Purchase Ear Technology a call.  We show the love, compassion and understanding with everyone just as we would our own family. Purchase Ear Technology is conveniently located at 2008 Broadway St in Paducah, KY.  You can reach us by phone at (270) 558-3996.   At Purchase Ear Technology, you are more than a patient.  You are FAMILY!

It’s summer and many of our friends and family will be traveling for a summer vacation.  Traveling with hearing aids can be a challenge, but it doesn’t have to be. By following these tips, you can make sure that your hearing aids are safe and that you can enjoy your trip without any problems.

1. Pack your hearing aids and accessories in your carry-on luggage.

This is the most important tip. You don’t want to risk losing or damaging your hearing aids in the checked luggage. Pack all of your hearing aid supplies, including batteries, cleaning tools, and accessories, in your carry-on bag.

2. Wear your hearing aids through security.

You don’t need to take your hearing aids out at the airport security checkpoint. The metal detectors will not harm your hearing aids. However, if you have a hearing aid with a metal detector loop, be sure to tell the security agent so they can use the loop to test your hearing aids.

3. Bring extra batteries.

It’s a good idea to bring extra batteries for your hearing aids when you travel. You may use your hearing aids more than usual while you’re on vacation, so it’s important to be prepared.

4. Keep your hearing aids clean.

Even if you don’t normally clean your hearing aids every day, it’s a good idea to do so more often while you’re traveling. This will help to prevent earwax and other debris from building up in your hearing aids, which can lead to problems.

5. Use a dehumidifier.

If you’re traveling to a humid climate, it’s a good idea to use a dehumidifier to keep your hearing aids dry. This will help to prevent moisture from building up in your hearing aids, which can damage them.

6. Sign up for text alerts from your airline.

This is a helpful tip for all travelers, but it’s especially important for people with hearing loss. By signing up for text alerts, you’ll be notified of any changes to your flight schedule, gate assignments, or other important information. This will help you to stay informed and avoid any delays or inconveniences.

7. Talk to your hearing aid provider.

If you have any questions or concerns about traveling with your hearing aids, be sure to talk to your hearing aid provider. They can give you specific advice based on your individual needs.

Following these tips will help you to have a safe and enjoyable trip with your hearing aids. With a little planning, you can ensure that your hearing aids will work perfectly no matter where you go.

Here are some additional tips to keep in mind when traveling with hearing aids:

• If you’re going to be in a noisy environment, such as a concert or sporting event, consider bringing a noise-canceling headset or earplugs.
• If you’re going to be swimming, be sure to wear waterproof hearing aids or a swim cap to protect your hearing aids from water damage.
• If you’re going to be traveling in a foreign country, be sure to learn a few basic phrases in the local language so you can ask for help if you need it.

With a little planning and preparation, you can travel with your hearing aids without any problems.

If you have questions or would like to schedule an appointment, give us a call at Purchase Ear Technology in Paducah by calling (270) 558-3996.  Purchase Ear Technology is conveniently located at 2008 Broadway St in Paducah, KY.  At Purchase Ear Technology, you are more than a patient.  You are FAMILY!

Summer is a wonderful time of the year when people can enjoy the outdoors, take vacations, and engage in various recreational activities. However, if you wear hearing aids, it’s essential to take extra care to ensure they remain in good shape throughout the summer months. Heat, humidity, water exposure, and sweat can potentially damage your hearing aids if proper precautions aren’t taken. Here are some tips to help you keep your hearing aids in excellent condition during the summer:

1. Protect from moisture: Moisture can be a significant concern during the summer, especially in humid environments. Excessive moisture can damage the delicate electronic components of your hearing aids. Consider using a hearing aid dehumidifier or drying kit overnight to remove any accumulated moisture. Additionally, avoid exposing your hearing aids to water sources such as swimming pools, lakes, or the ocean. If you do engage in water-related activities, make sure to remove your hearing aids beforehand and store them in a safe and dry place.
2. Shield from direct sunlight: Prolonged exposure to direct sunlight and high temperatures can harm your hearing aids. Heat can affect the battery life, reduce sound quality, and even warp the plastic components. Always store your hearing aids in a cool and dry place, away from direct sunlight. Consider using a protective case or storage box to shield them from excessive heat when you’re not using them.
3. Use sweat-resistant covers: Sweating is common during the summer, especially when engaging in physical activities. Sweat can seep into your hearing aids and cause damage. To protect them, consider using sweat-resistant covers or sleeves specifically designed for hearing aids. These covers can help absorb moisture and prevent it from reaching the delicate components.
4. Clean and maintain regularly: Regular cleaning and maintenance are crucial for the optimal functioning of your hearing aids. During the summer, it’s essential to pay extra attention to cleanliness, as sweat, dirt, and debris can accumulate more easily. Wipe your hearing aids daily with a soft, dry cloth to remove any moisture or residue. Use a small brush or specialized cleaning tool to clean the microphone ports and other small crevices. Avoid using water or cleaning solutions unless recommended by your hearing healthcare professional.
5. Stay mindful of outdoor activities: When participating in outdoor activities, be mindful of your hearing aids. If you’re playing sports, hiking, or engaging in other physical activities, it’s a good idea to remove your hearing aids and store them safely. High-impact activities can dislodge or damage the devices. Additionally, be cautious when applying sunscreen, insect repellent, or other topical products to avoid getting them on your hearing aids.
6. Schedule regular check-ups: Summer is an excellent time to schedule a check-up with your hearing healthcare professional. They can inspect your hearing aids, clean them thoroughly, and make any necessary adjustments. Regular maintenance appointments can help catch any issues early on and ensure that your hearing aids are functioning optimally throughout the summer.

By following these tips, you can keep your hearing aids in good shape and enjoy all that summer has to offer without compromising your hearing. Remember to take precautions to protect your hearing aids from moisture, excessive heat, and physical activities. When in doubt, consult with your hearing healthcare professional for specific recommendations tailored to your hearing aids and individual needs. With proper care, your hearing aids will continue to provide you with clear and amplified sound, allowing you to fully experience the joys of the summer season.

Have questions?  Need additional information on hearing aids.  Your friends at Purchase Ear Technology in Paducah are ready to help.  We are conveniently located at 2008 Broadway in Paducah, KY.  Give us a call at (270) 558-3996.  At Purchase Ear Technology, you are more than a patient. You are FAMILY!

Having your hearing tested is of utmost importance for several reasons. Here are some compelling reasons why regular hearing tests should be a priority:

1. Early Detection of Hearing Loss: Hearing loss often develops gradually, and individuals may not even realize they are experiencing it. Regular hearing tests can detect hearing loss at its early stages, allowing for timely intervention and management. Early detection enables individuals to take proactive steps to address their hearing health, preventing further deterioration and enhancing their overall quality of life.
2. Prevention and Treatment of Communication Difficulties: Hearing loss can significantly impact communication abilities. Difficulties in understanding speech, participating in conversations, and engaging with others can lead to feelings of isolation, frustration, and reduced social interaction. By having regular hearing tests, potential hearing loss can be identified early, and appropriate interventions, such as hearing aids or assistive listening devices, can be recommended. These interventions can effectively enhance communication abilities and restore the ability to connect with others.
3. Preservation of Cognitive Function: Numerous studies have shown a link between hearing loss and cognitive decline, including an increased risk of conditions like dementia and Alzheimer’s disease. By detecting and addressing hearing loss early on, the risk of cognitive decline can be reduced. Maintaining good hearing health through regular testing and appropriate interventions can help individuals stay mentally sharp and maintain their cognitive abilities as they age.
4. Overall Well-being and Quality of Life: Hearing loss can have a profound impact on an individual’s overall well-being and quality of life. It can lead to feelings of frustration, stress, and even depression. It may also impact job performance, academic achievements, and personal relationships. Regular hearing tests allow for timely identification and management of hearing issues, improving overall well-being and enabling individuals to actively engage in various aspects of life without limitations.

In conclusion, having your hearing tested is vital for early detection of hearing loss, prevention of communication difficulties, preservation of cognitive function, and overall well-being. By prioritizing regular hearing tests, individuals can take control of their hearing health and seek appropriate interventions that can significantly improve their quality of life.

If you have not had your hearing tested in recent years, maybe it is time.  Give Tim Harmon and his staff at Purchase Ear Technology a call at (270) 558-3996 to schedule an appointment.  Purchase Ear Technology is conveniently located at 2008 Broadway St in Paducah, KY.  At Purchase Ear Technology, you are more than a patient.  You are FAMILY!

The National Institute on Deafness and Other Communication Disorders reports, “About 28.8 million U.S. adults could benefit from using hearing aids.” But despite this high number, only about one in five people who could benefit from hearing aids actually wears them, according to the Hearing Loss Association of America.

If you’re ready to make the investment in hearing aids or you already have, below we review what to know, what to expect and how to get the most out of them.

You’ll Have Several Visits with Your Audiologist

Unfortunately, it’s rarely as easy as getting fit with your hearing aids during your initial visit and finding sounds come through perfectly. Instead, you should plan to have several visits with your audiologist. This is because when you first had your hearing tested, you were in a soundproof booth, but listening situations are more complex in the real world. You’ll likely find that you need the programming to be tweaked a few times until you can hear well with ease in complex environments.

Wear Both of Them

If you’ve been fit with two hearing aids, it’s important that when you’re wearing them, you put both in. This is because they’ve been calibrated to be worn together, and wearing both can help you localize sounds better.

Start with a Short Amount of Time

If it took you a while to treat your hearing loss, your brain will need time to re-learn how to processes all the new sounds you’re hearing with hearing aids. During this adjustment period, we recommend wearing your hearing aids for just an hour or two a day at first and slowly working up to wearing them during all waking hours. This way you won’t be overwhelmed or want to give up on your new hearing aids.

You May Need to Adjust to the Sound of Your Own Voice

Many people find that they don’t enjoy hearing the sound of their own voice when they first start wearing hearing aids. This is because they’re used to hearing their voice through bone conduction, which makes it sound deeper and richer than it actually is. With hearing aids, you hear it mostly through air conduction. Fortunately, after a few weeks your voice should sound normal to you again.

Talk To Tim Harmon At Purchase Ear Technology

If you are ready to talk about hearing aids, we hope you will contact us at Purchase Ear Technology in Paducah, KY.  Tim Harmon and our staff have the experience to help you find the best hearing aids for YOU and can help you adjust to the new-found joy of hearing again.  Purchase Ear Technology is conveniently located at 2008 Broadway St in Paducah, KY.  Give us a call at (270) 558-3996 for more information or to schedule an appointment.  At Purchase Ear Technology, you are more than a patient.  YOU ARE FAMILY!

Whether you hear it occasionally or it’s with you all of the time, the ringing of tinnitus can be annoying. There might be a more suitable word than annoying. How about frustrating or makes-you-want-to-bash-your-head-against-the-desk irritating? That noise that you can’t turn off is an issue however you decide to describe it. So what can be done? Can that ringing really be prevented?

Why do You Have Tinnitus And What Exactly is it?

Begin by finding out more about the condition that is responsible for the ringing, clicking, buzzing, or roaring you hear. It’s estimated as much as 10 percent of the U.S. population suffers from tinnitus, which is the medical term for that ringing. But why?

Tinnitus itself is not a condition but a sign of something else. That something else is hearing loss for many. Tinnitus is a result of hearing decline. It’s not really evident why tinnitus occurs when there is a change in a person’s hearing. That the brain is generating the noise to fill the void is the present theory.

Each and every day you encounter thousands, maybe even hundreds of thousands of sounds. There are the obvious sounds like a motor running or someone yelling, and then there are sounds you don’t even notice. The sound of air coming through a vent or the rotating blades of a ceiling fan are not as noticeable. These sorts of sound are not typically heard because the brain decides you don’t need to hear them.

The main point is, hearing these sounds is “normal” for your brain. If half of those sounds are turned off, what happens then? The portion of your brain responsible for hearing gets confounded. It might be possible that the phantom sounds that come with tinnitus are its way of creating noise for it to interpret because it knows it should be there.

Hearing loss isn’t the only possible cause of tinnitus, however. It can be connected to severe health problems like:

• Acoustic neuroma, a tumor that grows on the cranial nerve
• Atherosclerosis
• A reaction to medication
• Temporomandibular disorders (TMJ)
• Poor circulation
• Head or neck trauma
• Meniere’s disease
• Head or neck tumors
• High blood pressure
• Turbulent blood flow

Tinnitus can be caused by any of these things. After an injury or accident, even though you can hear fine, you could experience this ringing. Before looking for other methods of dealing with it, you should schedule an appointment with a doctor for a hearing exam.

Can Anything be Done About Tinnitus?

You need to know why you have it before you can start to determine what to do about it. The only thing that works, in many cases, is to give the brain what it wants. If the lack of sound is causing your tinnitus, you need to create some. Something as simple as a fan running in the background could produce enough noise to shut off the ringing, it doesn’t need to be much.

Technology such as a white noise generator is made just for this purpose. Ocean waves or rain falling are relaxing natural sounds which these devices simulate. You can hear the sound as you sleep if you buy one with pillow speakers.

Hearing aids also do the trick. You can turn up the sounds that your brain is looking for, like the AC running, with quality hearing aids. Hearing aids normalize your hearing enough that the brain has no further need to create phantom noise.

For most people, the solution is a combination of tricks. Using a white noise generator at night and wearing hearing aids during the day are examples of this approach.

There are also medications available if soft sounds are not working or if the tinnitus is more severe. Medications such as Xanax and possibly other antidepressants can quite this noise.

Lifestyle Changes to Handle Your Tinnitus

Modifying your lifestyle a little bit can help as well. Figuring out if there are triggers is a good place to start. When the tinnitus starts, note what’s going on and write it down in a log. Be specific:

• Is there a particular noise that is triggering it?
• Did you just take medication even over-the-counter products like Tylenol?
• Did you just drink a soda or a cup of coffee?
• Are you smoking or drinking alcohol?
• What did you just eat?

The more accurate your information, the faster you’ll notice the patterns that might be inducing the ringing. Meditation, exercise, and biofeedback can help you avoid stress which can also be responsible.

An Ounce of Prevention

The best way to get rid of tinnitus is to prevent it in the first place. Start by doing everything possible to protect your hearing like:

• Wearing ear protection when around loud noises
• Taking care of your cardiovascular system
• Turning the volume down on everything
• Not wearing earbuds or headphones when listening to music

If you have high blood pressure, take your medication. Eat right and exercise as well. To eliminate treatable problems that increase your risk of hearing loss and tinnitus, schedule a hearing exam with a hearing professional.

If you suffer from tinnitus and are ready to do something about it, give Tim Harmon a call today at Purchase Ear Technology at (270) 558-3996.  Purchase Ear Technology is conveniently located at 2008 Broadway St in Paducah, KY.  At Purchase Ear Technology, you are more than a patient.  YOU ARE FAMILY!

If you’re still wearing your older hearing aids, they might be better than no hearing aids, but they also may be costing you in some ways. Within the last few years, hearing aid technology has made considerable developments. Ten years ago many of the features of modern hearing aids weren’t even on the drawing board, going digital for instance.

When you decide it’s time to upgrade, choosing the correct one will take some planning. A hearing exam to identify how your hearing has changed will be necessary first. Your choices will begin to be narrowed down after we determine your present level of hearing loss. It’s most likely time for an upgrade for the following reasons.

Dependability Of Hearing Aids

Older or even low-quality hearing aids have real issues, like that irritating buzz you hear every once in a while. What about when you get near a phone and your hearing aids begin to feedback? Frequently, they will squeal with feedback for no distinct reason. Newer designs compensate for prevalent problems so that you hear feedback less frequently.

Volume Isn’t Enough

Volume control was about the only function of hearing aids a decade ago. Hearing aids have much more technology and capability nowadays.

• Background noise reduction: Feedback nullification, noise filters, and directional microphones are a few of the many strategies used by modern hearing aids. Noise filters reduce unwanted noise while directional microphones are designed to focus on sound directly in front of you. When your hearing aid is not correctly fitted, a whistling sound can happen which will be prevented by feedback cancellation.
• Voice focus: With some newer models the user can use a voice focusing feature that allows them to focus on particular voices they want to hear. This is done by using directional microphones to pick up the sound of the desired voice and then boost it. When someone is speaking quietly or in a noisy setting, voice focus can be quite helpful.
• Improved sound quality: Older hearing aid models had much lower quality of sound than modern-day models. Signal processing has become digital, which reproduces and amplifies sound in a more accurate way. Modern hearing aids also often offer custom programs that are preset for specific situations.
• Bluetooth capability: This feature lets hearing aids connect to other devices, like smartphones, TVs, and other smart devices. This can be helpful for streaming music or making phone calls.

You Have To Change The Batteries – A Lot

When we’re talking about upgrading your hearing aid, cost is always a consideration. The new technology isn’t cheap, but neither is wearing old, outdated hearing aids. Analog devices require new batteries frequently. The expenses will add up, especially if you need to replace batteries daily or more.

Old hearing aids break down and need to go to the shop for repair more frequently. Consider what a 1990 Chevy would be like and apply that concept to hearing aids. The costs of the constant repairs can get quickly out of hand.

You’re Not Capable Of Hearing At Work

Research has shown that hearing loss can lead to a reduced income. Naturally, your career would benefit from wearing better hearing aids. You’ll have an easier time hearing what clients, coworkers, and your boss are saying to you. You won’t have to be concerned about whether you’ll miss significant information or instructions.

And with stronger communication, you will have a better quality of life. You’ll be able to communicate with people again. Get right back into being socially connected.

You Want A Smaller Hearing Aid

When you look in the mirror at your old hearing aid, what words come to mind? Clunky? Obvious? OMG? Flexibility and style are some of the most compelling reasons to upgrade those outdated hearing aids. A number of shapes, styles, and sizes are available in modern hearing aids. You could either get one in your favorite color and make a fashion statement or get one small enough that it will go unseen by others.

Ready For An Upgrade?

If you are ready to talk about a hearing aid upgrade, then give Tim Harmon a call at Purchase Ear Technology.  We can help you determine what the best option is for YOU based on your hearing, lifestyle and needs.  Purchase Ear Technology is conveniently located at 2008 Broadway St in Paducah, KY.  Give us a call today at (270) 558-3996.  At Purchase Ear Technology, you are more than a patient.  YOU ARE FAMILY!

 

Here are some other posts that may be of interest to you:

Six Signs You Should Have Your Hearing Tested

Deal With Hearing Loss Earlier Rather Than Later

When Should I Update My Hearing Aids

Talking To Mom About Age Related Hearing Loss

Hearing loss is widely undertreated. In fact, only one-third of people who have hearing loss actually receive treatment for it. Untreated hearing loss can have multifaceted effects on everyday life, relationships, and health. Hearing loss strains communication which impacts one’s ability to engage in conversations. Over time, untreated hearing loss can also increase health risks. Extensive research shows that it can increase the risk of depressive symptoms, falls, and cognitive decline. This emphasized the importance of scheduling a hearing test and treating hearing loss.

Widespread Inaction on Hearing Loss
It takes an average of 7 years for people to treat hearing loss symptoms. This reveals what extensive research shows: there is widespread inaction when it comes to hearing loss. This includes a significant study conducted by the American-Speech-Language-Hearing Association. To examine the scope of untreated hearing loss, researchers surveyed a nationally representative sample of nearly 2,500 adults and found that:

• 2 in 10 adults have had a hearing test in the past 5 years, compared to 6 in 10 adults who have had their vision tested.
• More than 51% of people reported hearing issues but only 11% have sought treatment.
• 78% of those with hearing issues have been experiencing these challenges for 1 or more years, and over 35% have had trouble for 5 or more years.

This data highlights the deprioritizing of hearing health and the lack of seeking treatment even when symptoms have been experienced for a substantial amount of time.

Why People Avoid Treatment
Understanding why hearing loss treatment tends to be avoided can help illuminate the importance of intervening to address symptoms. Common reasons that treatment is delayed include:

• Progressive onset: hearing loss typically occurs gradually. This allows symptoms to go unnoticed for quite some time as people naturally adjust to the changes they are experiencing in their hearing health. People may not recognize their hearing loss until symptoms worsen.
• Stigma: people may also feel embarrassed about changes to hearing. There is still a stigma attached to hearing loss which is informed by people often thinking it only impacts aging adults. People may also view hearing loss as a disability that will hold them back which makes it challenging to acknowledge and confront that it is happening.
• Misconceptions: there are numerous misconceptions about hearing loss that often delays treatment. This includes that it only affects elderly adults, it is curable, and not a big deal if you still are able to hear. It is important to know that people of all ages are impacted by hearing loss which is a permanent medical condition that reduces the capacity to hear and has countless effects on everyday life.

Understanding that hearing loss is a serious and chronic medical condition with hearing solutions that can also transform hearing health can motivate you to seek treatment early.

Benefits of Treating Hearing Loss
Treating hearing loss offers life-changing benefits that support people living active lives. There is a range of hearing healthcare services, solutions, and technologies that prioritize healthy hearing. The most common treatment of hearing loss is hearing aids which are electronic devices that help absorb and process sound. This provides significant benefits including:

• Strengthens communication: hearing aids provide the ears and brain with ample support, making it easier to hear. This alleviates hearing loss symptoms and enables people to engage in conversations with greater ease. People are better able to participate in and navigate communication.
• Improves relationships: communication is integral to relationships. People often report feeling ignored and frustrated by their loved one with hearing loss which strains the relationship. Treatment supports effective communication, quality time, and the capacity to engage in everyday activities and tasks easily. This nurtures connection and improves relationships.
• Boosts overall health: treatment also alleviates the various health risks associated with untreated hearing loss. This includes cognitive decline, falls, and depressive symptoms. Hearing aids increase spatial awareness and safety as well as enrich social engagement and relationships.

Additionally, hearing aids also strengthen cognitive functions which support brain health.

Treating hearing loss can transform your hearing health and enhance your quality of life. You can best support your hearing health by contacting us at Purchase Ear Technology in Paducah, KY to schedule an appointment for a hearing consultation. Purchase Ear Technology is conveniently located at 2008 Broadway St in Paducah.  You can reach us by phone at (270) 558-3996.  At Purchase Ear Technology, you are more than a patient.  YOU ARE FAMILY!

BELOW ARE OTHER ARTICLES THAT MAY BE OF INTEREST TO YOU:

Hard Time Hearing In Noise? Here’s Why

Six Signs You Should Have Your Hearing Tested

How Hearing Aids Improve Brain Function

Picture hearing loss and most people imagine an elderly person with an old-fashioned hearing aid saying, “What’s that sonny?” That fact is, hearing loss has risen sharply among all age groups and it affects more than just your ability to hear. There are shocking health consequences for people who ignore it. These four alone make it worth having your hearing tested.

1. Mental Decline

Hearing is a sense that you might not associate with other health problems but there is a connection. The most serious is the impact hearing loss has on your cognitive functions and brain health. There is evidence that conditions people associate with aging like memory loss may actually be caused by hearing decline.

The brain has a fantastic ability to adapt to sensory changes, but that backfires when it comes to hearing loss. For someone with normal hearing, a sound is processed through the inner ear in a way that the brain can understand it. It’s that mechanism of hearing that allows you to tell the difference between the music coming from your car radio and what the ice cream truck plays as it heads down your street.

The brain encounters sound each microsecond whether you think you are hearing something or not. If you are sitting in a quiet room, there is still ambient noise around you like the hiss of air coming through the AC vent. Your brain interprets this as a sound you don’t need to know about, so you don’t notice it.

This stimulus is something the brain comes to expect. When there is hearing loss, suddenly it doesn’t get the same quantity or quality of sound. It still thinks it’s there, though, and struggles to find it. The stress on the brain, and absence of stimuli, can cause cognitive decline that increases your risk of dementia later in life. Studies show that memory loss and cognitive decline is around 40 percent higher in seniors with hearing loss. Even more compelling, people with hearing loss who get treatment like hearings aids have been shown to improve cognitive function.

2. Gut Problems

That seems like a stretch, but it’s not. The changes you experience due to hearing loss have been associated with side effects like:

• Anxiety
• Muscle tension
• Upset stomach

The ongoing stress can manifest intestinal problems like:

• Constipation
• Diarrhea
• Abdominal cramps

As the discomfort increases, you may find yourself with a more serious intestinal condition like Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS).

3. Mental Health Problems

The impact hearing loss has on your mental health is probably the most noticeable side effect. A recent study found that a decline in hearing correlates to an increase in depression in adults under the age of 70.

The study published in the JAMA Otolaryngology Neck Surgery found people with untreated hearing loss have a hard time communicating with others and that likely accounts for the depression. The research indicates that depression is more prominent in women between the ages of 18 to 69.

Over the years, the untreated hearing loss has been connected to many mental health problems such as:

• Negativism
• Anger
• Social withdrawal
• Lack of focus
• Irritability

People who can’t effectively communicate stop trying and that leads to sadness and psychological stress.

4. Troubled Relationships

The side effects of hearing loss invade more than your physical and mental health. People with poor hearing statistically make less money. A 2007 study conducted by the Better Hearing Institute found individuals with untreated hearing loss make on average 20,000 dollars less a year than their hearing colleagues.

Hearing loss creates problems in personal relationships, too. Another survey found 35 percent of the respondents with hearing loss had trouble maintaining relationships. The survey showed:

• Thirty-five percent of men reported they agreed to treatment for hearing loss because their spouse or partner pressured them into it
• Forty-three percent of men indicated that hearing loss caused relationship problems
• Most women indicated relationships with family members and friends were a significant concern with the hearing loss
• Thirty-seven percent of women surveyed reported getting annoyed when someone with hearing loss wasn’t listening to them

Hearing loss impacts your health, how you feel about yourself and the world and your relationships. The good news is many of these side effects disappear or lesson when you get help such as hearing aids. When was the last time you had your hearing checked?

If you haven’t had your hearing checked recently…

Then, maybe it is time for your to contact your Paducah area hearing specialists at Purchase Ear Technology.  Give Tim Harmon and his staff a call at (270) 558-3996 to schedule an appointment.  Purchase Ear Technology is conveniently located at 2008 Broadway St in Paducah, KY.  At Purchase Ear Technology, you are more than a patient. You are FAMILY!

If you are experiencing hearing loss, you may be wondering what the right course of action may be. There are ways to slow down the progression of hearing loss, as well as treatments that can improve your hearing ability. One of the most common remedies are hearing aids. These electronic devices sit behind or inside the ear and amplify external sounds.

There are a lot of myths and rumors about hearing aids that may leave you uncertain as to whether they are right for you. One common question is whether or not they cause the user to have headaches.

Fortunately, there is no reason a hearing aid should directly cause headaches but if you are experiencing aches or pains, it may be due to how you are wearing it. A minor adjustment may be all it takes to ensure optimum comfort.

Poor Fit

There is no one-size-fits-all solution when it comes to hearing aids. Everyone is different in shape and size and therefore a hearing device must be fitted correctly. If it is too loose or too tight, it may be causing discomfort which could be the cause of your headaches. This is common in over-the-counter (OTC) hearing aids which are not customized to the user and cannot be adjusted. If you are obtaining a hearing aid, it is essential you have it fitted so it sits correctly on your ear and is comfortable.

Inadequate Sound Quality

A hearing aid often takes some adjustment to ensure it is picking up and amplifying sounds correctly. A device that has not been adjusted prior to use may excessively amplify high intensity sounds, leading to an unpleasant high-pitched screeching noise, which will no doubt cause headaches if persistent. Inadequate sound quality could also make low volume sounds inaudible, in which case straining to hear conversation may further the discomfort.

Wrong Volume

Most quality hearing aids allow the user to adjust the volume in different situations. For example, in crowded areas or places with loud music you may wish to turn it down. Conversely, if you are watching TV or trying to hear a conversation you want the volume louder. Getting the volume right may take some getting used to, and if it is too high or low for the situation you may end up with headaches. Once you become more accustomed to the hearing aid over time this will vanish.

Feedback Noise

In some situations, certain hearing aids may pick up and amplify background noises like winds. This can result in annoying loud feedback noise that may be the root of your headaches.

Have Your Hearing Aid Adjusted

The best way to avoid the possibility of headaches as a result of your hearing aids is to have them correctly adjusted. This should occur when you first acquire the devices, but if discomfort and headaches persist you may need to take them back for further adjustment. After all, your hearing aids are an essential part of your life and you don’t want them to be uncomfortable or irritating.

Visit your audiologist to describe the experience you are having. They will know exactly what the issue is and how to remedy it. They may take molds of your ear in order to fashion a custom hearing device with the perfect fit. This will prevent any further headaches.

They will also be able to adjust the volume and settings to ensure you don’t receive any unpleasant feedback and can hear everything clearly. This will allow you to distinguish between unnecessary background noise and the sounds you want to hear, such as conversation and music.

Many modern hearing aids actually make automatic adjustments while you wear them, which switch settings between different environments. This will allow you to hear a low volume telephone conversation just as loudly as a noisy action film in the cinema. To get these settings perfectly aligned may require multiple visits to the audiologist in order to ensure the hearing aid is perfect for you and your lifestyle.

If your hearing loss is significant, these adjustments may be implemented in multiple stages to allow you and your brain to become gradually accustomed to the changes and adapt more easily to louder sounds.

Visit Purchase Ear Technology

If you are having issues with your hearing aids, give Tim Harmon a call at Purchase Ear Technology in Paducah.  Whether you are looking for new hearing aids, need something adjusted on your current hearing aids or need to have your hearing evaluated, Tim Harmon and Purchase Ear Technology are glad to help.  Give us a call at (270) 558-3996.  Purchase Ear Technology is conveniently located at 2008 Broadway St in Paducah, KY.  At Purchase Ear Technology in Paducah, you are more than a patient.  YOU ARE FAMILY!