Thursday, August 20, 2015

Can playing in a band hurt hearing?


Yes, loud sound, even loud music, can harm hearing. Hearing loss caused by exposure to loud sound is called noise induced hearing loss.  Using hearing protection can help preserve hearing.  If someone has played in the band for many years, it may already have had a negative impact on hearing. But that doesn’t mean hearing protection would not help, it can help prevent increased hearing loss when used properly.
There are many types of earplugs and muffs available.  Ear muffs can distort the quality of the music.  I recommend musician earplugs.  Custom fit musician’s earplugs are designed for musicians. They have filters which do not distort the sound maintaining the quality of music. See an audiologist to have ear impressions taken so that they fit comfortably.
Musicians’ monitors are also custom fit.  They provide clear hearing, eliminate feedback and lower noise levels so that one can reduce the volume on the monitor. 

See an audiologist to find the best solution best fit to your personal needs.
Life sounds great!  Enjoy every moment!

Jane Kukula, Au.D. and Paula Webster, M.A.
8897 Mentor Ave
Mentor, Ohio 44060
440-205-8848
Fax: 440-205-9818

Thursday, August 13, 2015


Research shows that people with diabetes are twice as likely to have hearing loss.  It is believed, that high sugar levels damage the blood vessels and nerves in the ear.  Hearing health considerations need to be part of good management plan for diabetes. The Better Hearing Institute (BHI), and has issued five habits for healthier hearing for people with diabetes.

1) Get a thorough hearing exam every year and watch for signs of hearing loss. You do it for your eyes. Now do it for your ears. See an audiologist every year for a thorough audiologic assessment

2) Use hearing aids, if recommended. Hearing aid technology has advanced radically in recent years. While hearing loss is not reversible, today’s hearing aids can dramatically enhance your ability to hear and engage with others—which can make a tremendous difference in your overall quality of life.

3) Keep your blood sugar under control. Just as your heart, eye, and nerve health are affected by your blood sugar levels, your hearing health may be as well.

4) Maintain a healthy lifestyle. Even for people without diabetes, a healthy lifestyle benefits hearing health. Not smoking, exercising, and maintaining a healthy diet all support your ability to hear.

5) Use ear protection. Everyone is at risk of noise-induced hearing loss. But using ear protection is one of the best—and simplest—things you can do to preserve your hearing.
Start now, obtain a baseline hearing evaluation. 




Research shows that people with diabetes are twice as likely to have hearing loss.  It is believed, that high sugar levels damage the blood vessels and nerves in the ear.  Hearing health considerations need to be part of good management plan for diabetes. The Better Hearing Institute (BHI), and has issued five habits for healthier hearing for people with diabetes.

1) Get a thorough hearing exam every year and watch for signs of hearing loss. You do it for your eyes. Now do it for your ears. See an audiologist every year for a thorough audiologic assessment

2) Use hearing aids, if recommended. Hearing aid technology has advanced radically in recent years. While hearing loss is not reversible, today’s hearing aids can dramatically enhance your ability to hear and engage with others—which can make a tremendous difference in your overall quality of life.

3) Keep your blood sugar under control. Just as your heart, eye, and nerve health are affected by your blood sugar levels, your hearing health may be as well.

4) Maintain a healthy lifestyle. Even for people without diabetes, a healthy lifestyle benefits hearing health. Not smoking, exercising, and maintaining a healthy diet all support your ability to hear.

5) Use ear protection. Everyone is at risk of noise-induced hearing loss. But using ear protection is one of the best—and simplest—things you can do to preserve your hearing.
Start now, obtain a baseline hearing evaluation. 
 

Life sounds great!  Enjoy every moment!

Jane Kukula, Au.D. and Paula Webster, M.A.
8897 Mentor Ave
Mentor, Ohio 44060
440-205-8848
Fax: 440-205-9818


Thursday, August 6, 2015


It is important to treat your hearing instruments with care.  This way you will keep them in good working order for many years, and minimize potential problems during everyday use.  Hearing aids may be sturdy, but they cannot withstand improper use.  

Protect your hearing aids from moisture.  Moisture and condensation may damage the electronics in your hearing aids. Remove your hearing aids before showering, bathing or swimming.  Due to the high humidity, you should not leave the devices in the bathroom.  Dry your ears before inserting the hearing aids.  Use a hearing aid dehumidifier at night if you perspire heavily or work outdoors.
Protect your hearing aids from dirt.  Always make sure that your fingers are clean and dry before touching your hearing aids.  The microphone openings are very small and can become blocked through improper handling.  Avoid contact with hairspray or make-up.  The fine particles of hairspray or powder make-up may clog the microphone opening and volume control and program switches.  
Keep the devices away from children and pets. Store your hearing aids in the case that is provided, out of the reach of children and pets.  Be sure to disengage the battery door.  A high pitched squeal is emitted when the hearing aids are out of your ears and running.  This can raise the curiosity of some pets.
In order to be fully functional, your hearing aids need to be clean at all times. Clean the devices with a soft, dry cloth.  Never use alcohol, solvents or cleaning agents.  Follow the manufacturers’ instructions for cleaning ear wax from the devices.  Special care products for your hearing aids are available at our office.  Stop in and have us clean your hearing aids every 3-6 months.  



Life sounds great!  Enjoy every moment!

Jane Kukula, Au.D. and Paula Webster, M.A.
8897 Mentor Ave
Mentor, Ohio 44060
440-205-8848
Fax: 440-205-9818