Thursday, February 28, 2013

Who is the best professional to see for hearing aids?

It certainly seems to be puzzling.  With all of the ads about “invisible” hearing aids and differing cost of instruments, it is difficult to know where to turn.  Audiologists, ENT physicians and hearing aid dealers all dispense hearing aids. 
Audiologists are uniquely trained to evaluate and treat the non-medical aspects of hearing loss and to dispense hearing aids.  Audiologists have a Master of Arts or Doctoral degree with emphasis on hearing, hearing loss, balance, hearing aids and listening therapy.  They are the best trained professionals to assist you with hearing aids.
Ear, nose and throat physicians (ENT) deal with medical disorders of the head and neck, which include the ears, hearing and balance.  It is important that you see an ENT specialist if you have a history of ear problems or ear disease. 
Hearing aid dealers at least in Ohio, must have a high school education or equivalent and pass a test on hearing aids prior to becoming licensed. 
As you can see, there is a vast difference in the training and scope of practice of an audiologist, physician and hearing aid dealer.  It is highly recommended that you see an Audiologist.  When choosing the audiologist, consider a professional who is readily available.  In the event your hearing aids need service, or you have questions, quick and easy access is extremely important. 
A complete Hearing Evaluation is the first step in the process of purchasing hearing aids.  Why wait?


Life sounds great!  Enjoy every moment!



Advanced Audiology Concepts
8897 Mentor Ave
Mentor, Ohio 44060
440-205-8848
http://www.aacHEAR.org




Thursday, February 21, 2013

Hearing Loss and Cochlear Implants



A cochlear implant is a surgically implanted device.  Those with severe to profound hearing loss who do not do well with hearing aids may be a candidate.  Since it is a surgical procedure, one must also be a good candidate for surgery.

A cochlear implant consists of three parts; an electrode array, magnets and a sound processor.  The electrode array is a thin wire with electrodes on it.  The array is inserted into the spiral portion of the inner ear called the cochlea.  The electrode array stimulates the hearing nerves. The other end of the array is attached to a magnet that is placed under the skin on the side/back of the head.  The sound processor looks similar to a hearing aid.  It is placed over the ear and has a magnet connected by a wire that connects to magnet under the scalp.  Typically one ear is implanted.

Sound is picked up by a microphone in the sound processor.  It is sent to the external magnet where it is transferred to the magnet under the skin.  The signal is travels to the electrode array, electrically stimulating the hearing nerves in the inner ear.  The ear perceives this electrical stimulation as sound and sends the information along the auditory nerve up to the brain.

If you think you are a candidate for a cochlear implant, have a hearing evaluation.    


Life sounds great!  Enjoy every moment!



Jane Kukula, AuD
Paula Webster, MA

Advanced Audiology Concepts
8897 Mentor Ave
Mentor, Ohio 44060
440-205-8848
http://www.aacHEAR.org




Thursday, February 14, 2013

Heart Disease and Hearing Loss


In 2005 Harvard University established a staggering relation between heart disease and hearing loss.  They found that hearing loss occurred 54% more often in people with heart disease then in the general population. 

Cardiovascular disease reduces blood flow through veins, arteries and to the organs of the body. The reduction in blood flow decreases oxygen to the body’s systems. The lack of oxygen can damage the heart and other organs including the hearing nerves deep in the inner ear.  

Researchers at Harvard University believe the hearing nerves are so fragile that the ear is likely the first organ damaged from cardiovascular disease.  There are those who believe one day hearing loss may predict heart disease.

Eat right and exercise.  One study found that exercising once a week reduced the risk of heart disease by 32%.  A healthy cardiovascular system has a positive effect on hearing. 

Have regular hearing checks and use hearing aids when recommended.  Those who use hearing aids report greater overall health, more active lifestyle and a more active social life.  Taking care of your hearing is part of taking care of your overall health. In Lake County Ohio call 440-205-8848 to schedule a hearing evaluation.


Life sounds great!  Enjoy every moment!



Jane Kukula, AuD
Paula Webster, MA

Advanced Audiology Concepts
8897 Mentor Ave
Mentor, Ohio 44060
440-205-8848
http://www.aacHEAR.org




Thursday, February 7, 2013

Auditory Processing Disorders


The American Academy of Audiology reports Auditory processing disorders (APDs) are referred to by many names: central auditory processing disorders, auditory perceptual disorders, and central auditory disorders. APDs affect the auditory areas of the brain. Further they report children and adults with APD often report difficulty hearing in background noise, in rooms that reverberate (echo) and/or other less-than-ideal listening situations.

APD is an audiological disorder.  An audiologist is the professional who makes the diagnosis. Individuals with APD usually pass standard hearing tests because standard hearing tests are designed to test the quietest sounds one can hear. Special testing is needed.  APD may be present with or without hearing loss.

Symptoms can range from mild to severe and can take many different forms.  Here are few of them:
  1. Difficulty hearing the difference in sounds, especially different letters
  2. Difficulty hearing in noisy places
  3. Difficulty hearing rhythms
  4. Difficulty academically
  5. Disorganized
  6. Trouble following multiple step instructions
  7. Does better with written material than auditory
  8. Performs better one-on-one than in groups
  9. Forgetful

If you think you and/or your child may have an auditory processing disorder, "Find an Audiologist" set up an appointment for a hearing evaluation.



Life sounds great!  Enjoy every moment!



Jane Kukula, AuD
Paula Webster, MA

Advanced Audiology Concepts
8897 Mentor Ave
Mentor, Ohio 44060
440-205-8848
http://www.aacHEAR.org