Hearing helps people communicate, enjoy music, hear the whispers of loved ones, and remain aware of their surroundings. Noise-induced hearing loss (NIHL) is a serious condition that affects millions globally. It can happen suddenly or develop over time and it is preventable. The primary cause of noise-induced hearing loss is exposure to loud sounds. This can happen in a wide …
The Importance of Hydration for Hearing Health
Water supports vital functions like circulation and temperature regulation. When it comes to hearing, hydration also affects the delicate structures within the ear. The inner ear houses the cochlea, which is filled with fluid. This fluid, called endolymph, plays a critical role in translating sound waves into nerve signals that the brain can understand. When the body is dehydrated, the …
The Dangers of Smoking for Ears
Smoking has a lot of widespread effects on health, impacting nearly every part of the body. While many know about the link between smoking and lung problems, less attention is often given to how smoking affects hearing. Understanding this connection can help make more informed choices for one’s overall well-being. Smoking introduces various harmful chemicals into the body. These substances …
What Are the Dangers of Pretending to Hear?
Hearing loss is a common problem that can be caused by a range of factors. From genetics and aging to exposure to loud noises and injury no two people have the exact same experience of hearing loss. However, one common way that many people cope with hearing loss is by pretending to hear. Pretending to hear can happen when you …
How Ear Infections Can Affect Your Hearing in the Long Term
Ear infections are very common. They occur when bacterial or viral infections trap fluid behind the eardrum, leading to inflammation and pain. This condition is known as otitis media. There are two main types: acute otitis media (AOM) and otitis media with effusion (OME). AOM happens suddenly with symptoms such as ear pain and fever, while OME can linger after …
Ear Infections to Watch Out for This Winter
Winter is a season filled with cozy blankets, hot cocoa, and festive celebrations. However, it also brings a higher risk of ear infections. Understanding what causes ear infections and how to prevent them can help keep you and your loved ones healthy during the chilly months. Understanding Ear Infections Ear infections occur when fluid builds up in the middle ear, …
Managing Your Tinnitus
Tinnitus is the perception of noise or ringing in the ears when no external sound is present. It’s a symptom rather than a disease and can result from various underlying issues. Common causes include exposure to loud noises, ear infections, earwax buildup, and even certain medications. Knowing what might be causing your tinnitus can be the first step in finding …
How to Cope with Ringing in the Ear
Dealing with the persistent ringing in the ears, commonly referred to as tinnitus, is a challenge many individuals face. Tinnitus, a condition affecting millions of people, can manifest as a ringing, tingling, buzzing, humming, or hissing sound in the ears. This auditory phenomenon can vary in pitch and volume, occurring in one or both ears and presenting as temporary or …
How to Communicate Effectively with Someone Who Has Hearing Loss
Communication is a two-way road where listening and speaking are interchanged at intervals. Communication effectively takes a certain level of hearing, listening and understanding of what the other person is saying. If one of these three things is missing, it creates a chasm to fill. This is why communication might be an issue for persons with hearing loss. But it …
The Benefits of Group Hearing Therapy
When it comes to managing hearing loss, the journey is as individual as the person experiencing it. However, there is immense power in shared experiences and communal support. That’s where group hearing therapy comes in, offering a constellation of benefits which I’ll outline in this post. The Supportive Environment of Group Sessions Imagine sitting in a room where everyone understands …