Noise, or unwanted sound, is one of the most common environmental exposures in the United States. In 1981, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) estimated that nearly 100 million people in the United States (about 50% of the population) had annual exposures to traffic noise that were high … [Read more...] about Understanding the Effects of Noise Pollution
Trinity Hearing
Understanding the Value of Baseline Hearing Tests
People getting a hearing test are often asked if there has been a change in their hearing. Some want to know how much their hearing has diminished through the years. Others ask to have a comparison made from the test and ask if their hearing is likely to change significantly. These are important … [Read more...] about Understanding the Value of Baseline Hearing Tests
Understanding Your Audiology 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 … [Read more...] about Understanding Your Audiology Results
Variables Regarding Noise-Induced Hearing Loss
One of the most frequently seen hearing losses is caused by noise exposure. Noise that is damaging to the delicate system of hearing can be heard from chainsaws, guns, skill saws, heavy equipment, carpentry power tools, landscaping equipment, motorcycles and off-road vehicles. A good rule of thumb … [Read more...] about Variables Regarding Noise-Induced Hearing Loss
How to Reduce Background Noise
Have you ever noticed the background noise in a restaurant or other gathering area? Some spaces seem to promote noise, while others don’t. Some areas seem to boost background noise by using hard reflective surfaces, seating that is close together, high ceilings and music piped into the seating area. … [Read more...] about How to Reduce Background Noise
Becoming Hearing Aid Savvy
Hearing is something we often take for granted, until we have concerns. The following are some of the commonly asked questions that come up when individuals are considering hearing aids. I think I need hearing aids, but how do I know what I should buy? Your lifestyle determines the technology … [Read more...] about Becoming Hearing Aid Savvy
Noise-Induced Hearing Loss: Anatomy,
Surveys estimate that noise-induced hearing loss (NIHL) affects 10 to 15 million people in the United States. The excessive vibratory motion created by loud sound can cause a plethora of damage in the delicate cochlear sensory cells and the nearby supporting pillar cells of the hearing organ. The … [Read more...] about Noise-Induced Hearing Loss: Anatomy,
Understanding the Connection Between Sleep Apnea and Hearing Loss
Sleep apnea is a common disorder and, according to the National Sleep Foundation, it affects about 18 million Americans. Most of us think of sleep apnea as snoring with periodic gasping or “snorting” noises. This seemingly innocent annoyance interrupts sleep and can cause excessive daytime fatigue … [Read more...] about Understanding the Connection Between Sleep Apnea and Hearing Loss
Environmental Noise May Cause Health Issues
Most people are not aware of the excessive noise in their daily lives. Noise comes from traffic sounds, trains, airplanes, roadwork, construction sites, even noise from people near you talking and listening to music, etc. Your brain is constantly processing all the sound, deciding what it wants to … [Read more...] about Environmental Noise May Cause Health Issues
Treating Hearing Loss in Babies
Hearing loss in children is more common than you may realize. Hearing loss occurs in two to three per 100 babies born in the United States, prompting hospitals to offer hearing screening as part of the newborn package or charge a small fee for the test. I strongly recommend all parents have their … [Read more...] about Treating Hearing Loss in Babies