Patients often ask whether they’ll need to get new hearing aids yearly in order to keep up with technological advancements. The simple answer is no. Hearing aids are extremely durable and manufacturers take a few years to introduce new models. Plus, with Bluetooth, they can now disburse software updates at any time. These updates are typically smaller, but Phonak did come out with a major upgrade to their Infinio platform at the end of October. It is called Ultra, and it is quite the … [Read more...] about New Year, New Infinio
Jeff Lane
Tackling Tinnitus
Tinnitus is the perception of sound in the absence of an external stimuli. The perceived sound can vary among individuals, with ringing, hissing crickets and cicadas being the most common. It can also vary in intensity, duration and rate of occurrence. Tinnitus affects approximately 15% of adults. Tinnitus is a complicated condition, which requires proper understanding to be appropriately addressed. What Causes Tinnitus? I frequently have patients ask how to get rid of their tinnitus during an … [Read more...] about Tackling Tinnitus
Can You Hear Them Now?
laneHearing loss is an insidious condition that affects all aspects of an individual’s life. Enjoying television or movies means turning up the volume too loud for others or reading captions. In-person conversations become less enjoyable because of the effort required of the hearing-impaired listener. Phone conversations can be even more difficult, as visual cues are unavailable and the quality of the connection can vary. The inability to communicate effectively over the phone can be frustrating … [Read more...] about Can You Hear Them Now?
Accessorizing Your Hearing
Technology is constantly evolving, often at a rapid pace, with the goal of improving and simplifying the experience of the user. If you buy a new phone, you get a pair of wireless earbuds. Hearing aids are similar. While modern hearing aids can significantly improve a wearer’s quality of life, some situations could still be improved with the addition of an accessory – situations such as listening to someone behind you while hiking or catching all the information at a meeting. Fortunately, there … [Read more...] about Accessorizing Your Hearing
Infinite Possibilities, Tiny Packaging
A major decision patients must make when choosing a hearing aid is how it will fit on their ear. They can either fit it behind the ear or entirely in the ear. In recent years, behind-the-ear styles have been dominant because they are rechargeable. That is about to change. Phonak has recently introduced a fully customized in-the-ear hearing aid with a rechargeable battery! But that is only the tip of the iceberg. Infinio Platform This new hearing aid model is called that Virto Infinio. It … [Read more...] about Infinite Possibilities, Tiny Packaging
Am I a Cochlear Implant Candidate?
Being diagnosed with a hearing loss can cause conflicting emotions. On one hand, the patient now has an answer that validates all of their experiences and struggles. On the other, they must now begin the process of managing their hearing loss. The sheer number of hearing aid options alone is enough to overwhelm. But another question may complicate matters: Is a cochlear implant appropriate for me? Realistically, for most patients, the answer will be no. But it is important to understand why, and … [Read more...] about Am I a Cochlear Implant Candidate?
Should you see an ENT or an Au.D.?
Hearing health care can be a steep learning curve for many patients. It’s not something usually discussed until help is required. One common question is, “What is the difference between an audiologist and an ear, nose and throat (ENT) physician?” In actuality, both of these providers work together closely to holistically treat the patient. But the two are different professions with important distinctions. Scope of Practice Before delving into the differences, it is important to define the idea … [Read more...] about Should you see an ENT or an Au.D.?
Understanding Your Hearing Exam Results
The first step on any hearing health journey is undergoing an examination. This exam provides you and the audiologist an understanding of your current state of hearing and allows for proper recommendations to be made. The findings are presented in a report called an audiogram. An audiogram contains both a written section and a graph. While the audiologist does review the audiogram during the appointment, it can sometimes be difficult to remember or fully grasp how to interpret your results. … [Read more...] about Understanding Your Hearing Exam Results
Using Virtual Reality to Manage Tinnitus
The second most frequent request I receive from patients, after improved hearing, is to make their tinnitus go away. While tinnitus is not dangerous, it can certainly diminish sufferers’ quality of life. Unfortunately, there is no known cure for tinnitus. Instead, the focus is on mitigating the impact on daily life. Studies show that amplification, sound therapy, dietary modifications and cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) are all effective forms of tinnitus management. But are there any new … [Read more...] about Using Virtual Reality to Manage Tinnitus
Which Hearing Aids are Right for Me?
The world of hearing aids can be intimidating. With the multiple manufacturers and models, it can feel akin to purchasing a vehicle. A minority of adults with hearing loss are actually fit with hearing aids, while the average length of time between noticing an issue and seeking treatment is seven years. Fortunately, licensed providers are available to act as guides, with guides being the key words. While providers are very knowledgeable and reliable sources, the question of which type of … [Read more...] about Which Hearing Aids are Right for Me?
