What is an extended wear hearing aid?

It is called Lyric.  It is the first and only extended wear hearing device that is worn 24 hours a day, seven days a week, for up to 4 months.  Lyric is positioned completely inside the ear canal and it uses the anatomy of the ear to provide natural sound quality.  This device can be worn during daily activities including showering, sleeping, exercising and talking on the phone.  

Lyric is designed for those with mild to moderately severe hearing loss.  An audiologist, who is trained specifically to fit the Lyric product, will assess a patient’s hearing loss, ear size and shape, as well as medical conditions and lifestyle to determine if this is the right product for them.   Approximately 50% of those with hearing loss may be candidates for Lyric.

Lyric is comfortably placed in the ear canal, by the trained audiologist, during a routine office visit.  This instrument is programmed for each patient’s specific hearing needs.  The patient can adjust the volume of the device as needed.  Every three to four months, the device will be replaced and programmed by the audiologist. 

For more information go to: http://www.phonak.com/us/b2c/en/products/hearing_instruments/lyric/overview.html

Life sounds great!  Enjoy every moment!

Jane Kukula, Au.D.
Paula Webster, M.A.

Advanced Audiology Concepts

8897 Mentor Ave
Mentor, Ohio 44060
440-205-8848

Fax: 440-205-9818

http://www.aacHEAR.org

Do I need two hearing aids?

This s a very common question.    If you have a hearing loss in both ears ear, it is highly recommended that you be fit with a hearing aid in both ears.  Research has shown that individuals who have been fit with two hearing aids are generally more satisfied than those who were fit with one instrument.  When given the choice, overwhelmingly, consumers choose two hearing aids.

Some of the advantages of hearing in both ears include:  better understanding of speech in both quiet and noisy situations, better overall sound and tonal quality, improved localization of sound and a wider range of hearing.  By wearing two hearing aids, it is easier to focus on the conversation and your ability to understand speech is improved.  Localizing the source of sound is vitally important.  For example, it allows you to identify the direction from which speech or noise (like a car or siren) is coming.

When listening to a stereo system, both speakers allow the smoothest, sharpest, most natural sound quality.  The same thing will be true with hearing aids.  With two hearing instruments, the range of hearing increases from 180 to 360 degrees.  This greater range of hearing provides a better sense of balance and sound quality, making listening more enjoyable and relaxing.  As an added advantage, many hearing aid wearers report not hearing the “ringing” tinnitus that plagues them.  If you have a hearing aid in only one ear there will still be ringing in the unaided ear. 

Using two hearing aids will allow you to enjoy better hearing in small and large group settings, with improved localization and less strain, for a more pleasant listening experience.  

Life sounds great!  Enjoy every moment!

Jane Kukula, Au.D.
Paula Webster, M.A.

Advanced Audiology Concepts

8897 Mentor Ave
Mentor, Ohio 44060
440-205-8848

Fax: 440-205-9818

http://www.aacHEAR.org

Resistance to seeking hearing help

We often see people with hearing loss resist seeking help.  There are many reasons why they it put off. 

It easy to deny there is a problem and blame others for the difficulty.  Hearing loss causes voices to sound soft and muffled.  It does not appear as if it is their hearing, just that others do not speak up or talk clearly.  When they watch TV, the volume does not sound loud to them, leading them to believe others like it very soft.

Hearing loss is often gradual.  It decreases slowly over time.  So slowly, that people can be unaware that hearing is changing.  Some sounds, such as birds or voices from another room and more, fade away without being missed. 

Not knowing or understanding about hearing and hearing aids, or where to go and who to see, can create fear.  To complicate it, many have heard stories of people who were unsuccessful with hearing aids.  This can create concern about making a good financial investment.  We recommend an audiologist.  Audiologists have many years of study in the area of the ears, hearing and hearing aids.  If hearing aids are recommended, they can help find cost effective ones.  

Help them to focus on what they are missing and how hearing loss is changing thier life in negative ways.  Often those with untreated hearing loss isolate themselves and withdraw from social situations including family gatherings.  They miss out on grandchildren and their stories.  It can impact relationships and her quality of life.  Stop in your local audiologist's office pick up some literature.  Knowledge about what to expect can help dispel some of the fear and anxiety.  Encourage them just as you would with any health issue. 

The longer they put it off, the more likely they will have a reduced ability to understand words.   Call and schedule a hearing evaluation.  

Life sounds great!  Enjoy every moment!

Jane Kukula, Au.D.
Paula Webster, M.A.

Advanced Audiology Concepts

8897 Mentor Ave
Mentor, Ohio 44060
440-205-8848

Fax: 440-205-9818

http://www.aacHEAR.org

Picture obtained from:

http://www.google.com/imgres?imgurl=http://images.agoramedia.com/everydayhealth/gcms/photogallery_social_withdrawal_full.jpg&imgrefurl=http://www.everydayhealth.com/depression-pictures/depression-symptoms-to-watch-for.aspx&h=400&w=300&sz=34&tbnid=kyOam7F9IAKZxM:&tbnh=103&tbnw=77&prev=/search%3Fq%3Dphoto%2Bof%2Bsocial%2Bwithdrawal%26tbm%3Disch%26tbo%3Du&zoom=1&q=photo+of+social+withdrawal&usg=__qNsHXtuDGJI5_1eQSsMWZnDP6BE=&docid=mXgLie8nGQZl0M&sa=X&ei=caTRUfibAbDLywGa1oCYBA&ved=0CEEQ9QEwBQ&dur=266

Hearing loss and denial

We often see people with hearing loss resist seeking help.  There are many reasons why they resist assistance.  Denial is one way of resisting.  Understanding where it comes from can help you work with her.

It can be easy to deny there is a problem and blame others for the difficulty.  Hearing loss makes voices sound soft and mumbled.   It is appears that the speaker is not speaking up or clearly.  When she watches TV, the volume does not sound loud to her and leading her to think others like volume very soft.

She may not realize all that she misses.  Hearing loss is often gradual.  It decreases slowly over time.  So slowly, people can be unaware that hearing is changing.  Some sounds such as bird songs, fade away without being noticed and aren’t missed when they fade away altogether.

Not knowing or understanding about hearing and hearing aids or where to go and who to see, can create fear.  To complicate it, many have heard stories of people who were unsuccessful with hearing aids.  This can create concern about the financial investment.  Today’s hearing aids are better than ever. We can help her find cost effective hearing aids if they are indicated.

Help her to focus on what she is missing and how hearing loss is changing her life in a negative ways.   Those with untreated hearing loss will isolate themselves and withdraw from social situations.  Share with her how you feel when she is not able to participate in family activities.  Stop in and pick up some information about hearing aids to share with her.  Help her to understand hearing aid technology has improved over the last few years and can be very helpful and inconspicuous. 

Now is a great time to get started.  Schedule her for a hearing evaluation.  An audiologist can help her understand what is happening with her hearing and alleviate some of her fears.  Call one now.

Life sounds great!  Enjoy every moment!

Jane Kukula, Au.D.
Paula Webster, M.A.

Advanced Audiology Concepts

8897 Mentor Ave
Mentor, Ohio 44060
440-205-8848

Fax: 440-205-9818

http://www.aacHEAR.org

Picture obtained at:

http://www.google.com/imgres?imgurl=http://www.butyoudontlooksick.com/wpress/wp-content/uploads/2011/02/denial.jpg&imgrefurl=http://www.butyoudontlooksick.com/articles/personal-essays/overcoming-cleopatra-becoming-more-than-the-queen-of-denial/&h=239&w=317&sz=22&tbnid=qte8Y56s9ZV8jM:&tbnh=84&tbnw=111&zoom=1&usg=__ByQaK7dAaWL_vU-kw3R6gm_qvI0=&docid=wfZd0mAiX_Si8M&sa=X&ei=2pPIUcKBF4S7ywGlzoC4BQ&ved=0CDcQ9QEwAg&dur=78

What type of noise is considered loud enough to require ear protection?

This is a great question to consider as summer begins and we are spending more time enjoying the great outdoors.  Recreational activities such as video arcades, fireworks, discos, music concerts, shooting guns, sporting events, motorcycles and even movie theaters, can be excessively loud.  Actually, even using appliances around your home (vacuum cleaner, hair dryer, dish washer, leaf blowers, lawn mowers and power saws), particularly if they are running at the same time, can be dangerous to your hearing. 

It is important to wear hearing protection when participating in these recreational or occupational activities.  If you work in an at-risk occupation, check with your employer to make sure your hearing is protected in accordance with OSHA regulations.  Limit the amount of time you are exposed to loud noise.

Custom hearing protection is available.  Ask your audiologist about more information regarding the appropriate ear plugs for your particular interests and activities.  We live in a very noisy world.  Through education and positive action, the incidence of noise induced hearing loss can be reduced. Have a Safe Fourth of July!  

Life sounds great!  Enjoy every moment!

Jane Kukula, Au.D.
Paula Webster, M.A.

Advanced Audiology Concepts

8897 Mentor Ave
Mentor, Ohio 44060
440-205-8848

Fax: 440-205-9818

http://www.aacHEAR.org

Picture obtained from: http://www.google.com/imgres?imgurl=http://www.conciergepreferred.com/media/k2/items/cache/b6120c313ac48a77675d5f5655b43f41_XL.jpg&imgrefurl=http://www.conciergepreferred.com/navy-pier-fireworks/4679-fourth-of-july-fireworks-at-navy-pier-2012.html&h=744&w=900&sz=449&tbnid=dV9I52uoyTmeKM:&tbnh=109&tbnw=132&prev=/search%3Fq%3Dpictures%2Bof%2Bfireworks%26tbm%3Disch%26tbo%3Du&zoom=1&q=pictures+of+fireworks&usg=__Lx702xxgOFg5AKKrmlewtRNIZpc=&docid=Os5UJpkzWuqsMM&sa=X&ei=hWzIUZrxEO-kyAGBsoHwCA&ved=0CFsQ9QEwDg&dur=483

Hearing, but not understanding is often a symptom of mild to moderate hearing loss.  Many people go through life simply “living with” hearing loss, never recognizing there are many solutions available.  The first step is a complete audiological (hearing) assessment.  This testing is performed by an audiologist and will identify the degree and nature of your understanding problems.  A complete evaluation includes inspection of the ear canals, testing of the middle and inner ear functioning, pure tone testing and an assessment of speech recognition abilities.  Cost of this testing is generally covered by Medicare and health insurance plans.

These results will be discussed fully with you and your family members.  Treatment may be as simple as removing wax from the ear canals.  If hearing aids, listening therapy, and/or use of assistive listening devices are recommended, the audiologist will guide you in the selection process.

Hearing aids are now quite small and practically invisible.  They provide many improved features for addressing the problem of hearing but not understanding.  Directional microphones, frequency specific amplification and automatic programs help to improve understanding in quiet and noisy environments.  Also, many models can be paired with wireless devices to improve understanding on the telephone, while watching television and while participating in very challenging listening situations. 

Assistive listening devices can make the activities of daily living more accessible.  Amplified telephones, vibrating alarm clocks, alerting doorbells and wireless TV amplifiers provide additional awareness of sound.  Listening therapies improve the ability to understand conversational speech in noisy environments.

Untreated hearing loss can impact your life in many ways.  Withdrawal, isolation and depression are often seen in those who have hearing loss.  Call an audiologist today and schedule a hearing evaluation.

Life sounds great!  Enjoy every moment!

Jane Kukula, Au.D.
Paula Webster, M.A.

Advanced Audiology Concepts

8897 Mentor Ave
Mentor, Ohio 44060
440-205-8848

Fax: 440-205-9818

http://www.aacHEAR.org

Picture obtained from: http://www.google.com/imgres?imgurl=http://www.families.com/wp-content/uploads/media/jigsawpuzzle2.jpg&imgrefurl=http://www.families.com/blog/when-people-do-not-understand-mental-illness&h=235&w=310&sz=24&tbnid=J8tLNgA1_WuQoM:&tbnh=96&tbnw=127&prev=/search%3Fq%3Dimages%2Bof%2Bpeople%2Bnot%2Bunderstanding%26tbm%3Disch%26tbo%3Du&zoom=1&q=images+of+people+not+understanding&usg=__mAXrcEciQYADDRBLkII8AyPK40E=&docid=vq6tAz92_kjTkM&sa=X&ei=XJmvUfTXKMq5yAH8goCICg&ved=0CDUQ9QEwAg&dur=3061

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!

Jane Kukula, AuD
Paula Webster, MA

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

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

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

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

Learn more click here.

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

Helpful hints for talking to a person with hearing loss

There are ways you can do help your loved one hear better just by changing a few things in how you talk to them. 

With hearing loss, hearing doesn’t just happen.  First, get their attention.  Use their name then state information or ask a question.  Using their name alerts them to the fact that you are about to say something.  For example, saying “Honey what’s for dinner?”  vs “What’s for dinner honey?”, notifies the person that you are talking to them.  This gives them a moment to focus and tune in to what you are about to say or ask. 

Second, don’t try to have a conversation from another room. Look at them when you talk to them.  When they can see your face, they pick up information from lip reading, gestures and facial expressions.  All of these can help them hear and understand better.

Third, speak slowly and distinctly.  Think about the letters in the words as you say each one.  This will help you to say each letter clearly and slow down the rate at which you talk.  When you speak quickly the words run together making it hard for someone with hearing loss to make out what is said.

Forth, consider the room or environment that you are in.  Rooms that echo, and have high ceilings and hard floors are difficult to hear in.  It is easier to hear in rooms with many fabrics such as carpeting and drapery. 

Fifth, the level of background noise in the room can have a major impact on hearing.  Turn off the TV when you have a conversation. 

Finally, only one person speaks at a time.  Someone with hearing loss cannot focus in on two speakers at the same time.
 

Learn More About Hearing Loss Here

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