http://blog.hearingplanet.com/ en bill.brownie@hearingplanet.com Copyright 2011 2011-08-31T22:15:00-06:00 /index.php?/site/occupational_hearing_loss/ /index.php?/site/occupational_hearing_loss/#When:22:15:00Z Prolonged exposure to loud noises, or even brief exposure to very loud noises, can permanently damage the sensory nerves of the inner ear, a condition known as noise-induced hearing loss. Unfortunately, many people are exposed to loud noises on a daily basis due to their nature of their jobs. In the US, a federal law known as the Occupational Safety and Health Act (OSHA) requires employers to minimize such risks to their employees’ hearing. If you have been experiencing increased difficulty understanding others or enjoying audio entertainment, you may be suffering from a hearing impairment. High Risk Jobs for Occupational Hearing Loss Noise-induced hearing loss can happen to anyone, but some employees are at an increased risk for this problem due to the nature of their jobs. You may want to learn more about ear protection if you or a loved one works in a field such as: Airline work, especially jobs that entail mechanical work on planes or on the landing strip Construction jobs, especially if heavy machinery is often used Music careers that involve frequently attending concerts Agricultural work that involves heavy machinery Factory jobs The armed forces Working in or near emergency response vehicles with loud sirens If a job requires exposure to sounds above 85 dB, OSHA requires the employer to provide some kind of ear protection to workers. This includes providing education about hearing loss and any equipment required to protect their ears. When these regulations are not followed, employees may suffer permanent damage to their hearing abilities. Contact a Hearing Aid Professional If you or a member of your family is suffering from noise-induced hearing loss, HearingPlanet can help you learn more about potential solutions. Contact our hearing aid specialists at 1-800-432-7669. 2011-08-31T22:15:00-06:00 /index.php?/site/introducing_the_decible/ /index.php?/site/introducing_the_decible/#When:12:48:00Z Noise-induced hearing loss (NIHL) is one of the most common forms of hearing impairment. In order to prevent it, we need to understand what level of exposure to loud noises is safe. But how can you measure something as abstract as a sound’s volume? The solution audiologists use is an interesting unit of measurement called a decibel (abbreviated as dB). Most people have heard of decibels, and know that more decibels mean a louder noise. Beyond that, however, the decibel is widely misunderstood. We hope you find the following introduction helpful in understanding how the decibel system works. Decible Ratios versus Amounts The important thing to know about the decibel is that it represents a ratio, not an amount. In other words, there is not an amount of energy called a decibel that can be added or subtracted to achieve a different volume. Instead, a decibel compares the loudness of two different sounds. When we want to determine a noise’s decibel level, we must compare it to a certain predetermined baseline. When measuring a sound’s intensity, audiologists use a baseline they call “zero decibels.” This is the lowest volume that a sensitive human ear can hear. There is no mathematical reason to call this volume zero decibels; audiologists have simply selected it for convenience. The decibel level of a sound tells you how many times louder it is than the lowest audible noise. Now, does that mean a 5 dB sound is 5 times louder than zero decibels? Actually, no. The formula for determining decibel levels uses a mathematical function called a logarithm, which follows very different rules from a linear scale. Understanding Decibel Levels You do not need to know everything about logarithms to understand a decibel level. All you need to know is that a 10 dB sound is 10 times more intense than a zero decibel sound. Therefore, a 20 dB sound is 100 times more intense than zero (10 x 10). A 30 dB sound is actually 1,000 times zero dB. It may sound confusing, but just remember that you are not working with a linear scale. The average human range of hearing is about zero decibels to 120 decibels. Past this point, sound becomes painfully loud and may cause permanent damage to the ears. Contact a Hearing Health Consultant HearingPlanet’s mission is to help hearing impaired people find the information and technology they need. To speak with a HearingPlanet hearing aid professionals, contact us today at 1-800-432-7669. 2011-08-24T12:48:00-06:00 /index.php?/site/upgrading_hearing_aids/ /index.php?/site/upgrading_hearing_aids/#When:12:48:00Z If you have been experiencing problems with your hearing aid, or only suspect it could be performing better, it may be time to contact an audiologist about new technologies that may be able to help you. If you are concerned about paying for a whole new device, you do not need to worry. Sometimes a hearing aid’s performance can be greatly improved with an upgrade of its existing components.  Hearing Aid Upgrades that Could Help You Even hearing aids that work very well when new can become dirty or wear down over time. Additionally, your hearing level and even the shape of your outer ear can change with age. Lastly, new technology may have been introduced since you purchased your hearing aid that could be very beneficial. A few examples of hearing aid upgrades that many manufacturers and hearing clinics offer are: Adjustments to the hearing aid shell to help it fit your ear better and reduce feedback Replacement of older circuitry or parts with more high-tech options Cleaning the casing, microphone, and other parts that can trap dirt or moisture Repairs of broken casing, circuitry, or other parts Corrections of potential mistakes made when your hearing aid was originally fitted Our hearing aid experts can tell you more about new technologies in hearing assistance that could be greatly beneficial for your condition. Contact Us HearingPlanet’s hearing aid consultants strive to make purchasing effective hearing aids as quick and simple as possible. Contact us today at 1-800-432-7669. 2011-08-17T12:48:00-06:00 /index.php?/site/hearing_aids_and_direct_audio_input/ /index.php?/site/hearing_aids_and_direct_audio_input/#When:13:43:00Z For decades, hearing aid manufacturers have been looking for solutions to the challenge of using a hearing aid in conjunction with telephones, headphones, or other such devices. This can be problematic in several ways, including the difficulty hearing a somewhat removed sound, such as a voice through a telephone, even with the use of a hearing aid. Another problem is the electromagnetic interference that phones and other electronic devices can create. Telecoils are one common solution to this issue. Others prefer a solution known as direct audio input, or DAI. If you are researching your hearing aid options, DAI is one of the many features you may want to consider. What is DAI? Direct audio input involves plugging your hearing aid directly into a phone, CD player, MP3 player, or other audio device. It is currently only available for behind-the-ear hearing aids with DAI capability. (Sometimes people with DAI-capable hearing aids do not even realize it - check the literature provided with your hearing aid or ask your audiologist to see if you can use this feature with your current hearing device.) In order to use DAI, you will need a cord that connects to your phone or other device at one end and to your hearing aid at the other end. The part of the cord that plugs into your hearing aid is often known as the “boot” or the “shoe.” Your audiologist will probably sell these devices, or should be able to inform you about where you can buy one. Fans of DAI technology enjoy it because it creates less interference than telecoils, leading to a clearer and more understandable sound. It is particularly useful for people who work around computers or machinery that can create a lot of electromagnetic interference. If you think DAI technology might be a good option for you, we would encourage you to contact the hearing aid experts of HearingPlanet. Contact a Hearing Aid Consultant At HearingPlanet, we strive to make the hearing aid selection process simple and informative. To schedule a consultation with an experienced hearing aid specialist, contact us at 1-800-432-7669. 2011-08-10T13:43:00-06:00 /index.php?/site/do_you_need_hearing_aid_insurance/ /index.php?/site/do_you_need_hearing_aid_insurance/#When:13:47:00Z Hearing aids are helpful devices that employ some fascinating technology. Unfortunately, they are also small, delicate, and expensive to replace. While most high quality hearing aids will come with warranties in case of accidents, you also need to plan for what you will do when the warranty expires. One option is to look into having your hearing aid covered by an insurance policy. Hearing Aid Insurance Options If you want to insure your hearing aid against damage, theft, or being lost, you have three basic options: Add a hearing aid rider to your homeowner’s insurance policy Add your hearing aid to your health insurance (sadly, few companies offer this option) Purchase separate coverage for your hearing aid Research your options carefully before deciding on hearing aid insurance coverage. Your financial situation, lifestyle, and hearing aid needs will all influence the kind of coverage you need. For example, your policy may or may not cover your expenses in case of the following: Damage from smoke or fire Vandalism Theft Damage from storms, hurricanes, or hail Misplacement of device Building collapse Riots or “civil commotion” It is important to read your policy carefully, to make sure you fully understand what is covered and what is not. Contact a Hearing Aid Consultant Hearing loss is a highly frustrating medical condition, but help is available. To review a wide range of hearing aid models and brands, contact HearingPlanet today at 1-800-432-7669. 2011-08-03T13:47:00-06:00 /index.php?/site/hearing_aid_hygiene/ /index.php?/site/hearing_aid_hygiene/#When:11:58:00Z A hearing aid can be a very useful device for a person who is hard of hearing. Unfortunately, if users and audiologists do not practice good hygiene, it can also be a breeding ground for bacteria and fungi. A recent study at the St. Louis University School of Medicine found that opportunistic diseases can easily enter the body through the ear canal when a hearing aid is not correctly cleaned and handled. Protecting Your Health with Clean Hearing Aids While anyone can suffer from illness spread by a poorly cleaned hearing aid, senior citizens and small children are especially vulnerable to potentially dangerous infections. To keep you or your loved one safe, follow these hygiene tips: Keep your hearing aid clean. Every night, you should wipe down the device using a soft piece of cloth. In addition, you should occasionally wash the ear mold with soap and water. Leaving the battery case open when you are not using the device can prevent moisture from accumulating, which can damage the device and can even allow mold to develop. Make sure your audiologist washes his or her hands before touching your hearing aid or examining your ears. Unfortunately, recent studies have found that few audiologists take this important step for their patients’ health. Do not allow friends or family to handle your hearing aid unless they have washed their hands. If you help your child or older loved one with his or her hearing aid, you may even want to wear gloves while handling it. Caring for your hearing aid will not only help it function better; it is important for your health. For more information about hearing aid maintenance, call one of our experienced hearing aid consultants. Contact Us HearingPlanet provides accessible and reliable support to hearing aid users. Contact our experienced hearing aid specialists today at 1-800-432-7669. 2011-07-27T11:58:00-06:00 /index.php?/site/hearing_loss_among_musicians/ /index.php?/site/hearing_loss_among_musicians/#When:11:39:00Z Who would value hearing more than a person who earns his or her living creating music? Even if music is only a passion, and not a source of income, losing the ability to hear it can be devastating. Sadly, people who play instruments or attend concerts frequently may be at an increased risk for hearing loss. A 1999 study suggested that up to 30% of pop artists and 52% of classical musicians may develop some degree of noise-induced hearing loss. On the plus side, suffering from hearing impairment does not have to severely interrupt your life. Hearing Health Dangers for Musicians Exposure to high decibel (loud) noises for extended periods of time can cause damage to the hair cells of the cochlea, which play a very important role in processing sound. As this damage becomes more extensive over time, people may begin experiencing symptoms like: An inability to hear high frequency (high pitched) noises Tinnitus, or a ringing in the ears Decreased ability to tell the difference between different pitches Difficulty understanding speech Uncomfortable sensitivity to certain pitches Unfortunately, damage to the ear’s hair cells is permanent. People with this condition may need to cope with the problem by using speech reading, hearing aids, and other technology. Protecting Your Ears as a Musician Every musician and music fan needs to understand the risk to their ears. A large orchestra can reach 112 decibels or more, while a rock concert can reach 120 – 130 decibels. In contrast, factory machinery is usually around 100 decibels. If you enjoy performing or hearing live music, please take steps to protect your ears. Wear earplugs to any loud event (specially developed earplugs are available for musicians). Of course, you should also be careful to keep headphones, stereos, and other entertainment at a reasonable volume. Contact a Hearing Aid Consultant If you have been diagnosed with noise-induced hearing loss, assistive technology can help you manage this change in your life. To discuss your options with an experienced hearing aid specialist, contact HearingPlanet at 1-800-432-7669. 2011-07-20T11:39:00-06:00 /index.php?/site/how_loud_is_too_loud/ /index.php?/site/how_loud_is_too_loud/#When:16:07:00Z It is important to know that exposure to very loud noises can damage your hearing; however, that is not the entire story. If you are interested in protecting your ears from noise-induced harm, you may be wondering exactly what volumes you need to be worried about. After all, exposure to loud noises is an unavoidable part of most people’s lives, so how can we know when to be concerned? Hearing health researchers have established the range which an average person can hear, from the barely audible to the uncomfortably loud. This article will look at this range in more detail, with advice on protecting yourself from dangerous noise levels. The Sound Spectrum In the measuring system used by most audiologists, the point labeled “zero decibels” does not actually represent a lack of sound. It represents the lowest volume that the average healthy ear can perceive. As the number of decibels increases, sounds become exponentially louder. An example of this spectrum, with examples of each decibel level, is below: 0 dB: Lowest audible sound (Safe) 20 dB: A whispering voice (Safe) 60 dB: Normal conversation (Safe) 85 dB: Heavy traffic (Can become dangerous with continuous exposure) 95 dB: Lawn mowers (Can become dangerous with more than 2 hours of exposure) 110 dB: Loud concert (Can become dangerous with 1/2 hour of exposure) 120 dB: Ambulance siren (Can become dangerous with 15 minutes of exposure) Above 120 dB: Shotgun fire, jet engine (Can be dangerous at any amount of exposure) Whenever you will be exposed to sounds above 90 decibels for more than a few moments, doctors recommend using ear plugs or taking other protective measures for your ears. Contact a Hearing Aid Professional Sadly, noise-induced hearing loss is usually permanent. However, it does not need to interfere with your relationships or career. To discuss affordable hearing aids that may benefit you, contact HearingPlanet today at 1-800-432-7669. 2011-07-13T16:07:00-06:00 /index.php?/site/treating_ear_infections/ /index.php?/site/treating_ear_infections/#When:16:10:00Z The medical term for a middle ear infection (the most common kind) is otitis media. Many people with otitis media experience a temporary reduction in hearing while they are sick, often accompanied by a “full” feeling in the ear. Unfortunately, if left untreated, this hearing loss can become permanent. This is more common with severe infections such as meningitis. Recognizing Ear Infections Ear infections are a very common health problem, particularly among children. Doctors estimate that about 75% of children have experienced ear infections by the age of three; about 50% of them have experienced three or more. Of course, adults can also develop ear infections, although they are less likely to because of their more advanced immune systems. Common symptoms of ear infection in both adults and children include: Ear ache An itching sensation in the ear (This may case a child to tug or rub at his or her ear.) Tinnitus A sensation of fullness in the ear Fever If you or your child is experiencing symptoms of otitis media, you need to make an appointment with your doctor soon. An untreated infection can spread to the inner ear and even the brain. There is no need to panic, as lasting harm caused by an ear infection is rare, but there are many reasons to consult your doctor. Contact a Hearing Health Consultant If you or a loved one is suffering from hearing impairment, HearingPlanet can help you find an affordable solution. Contact our hearing aid experts today at 1-800-432-7669. 2011-07-07T16:10:00-06:00 /index.php?/site/disposable_hearing_aids/ /index.php?/site/disposable_hearing_aids/#When:12:24:00Z While hearing aids can reduce the complications of hearing loss, such as struggling to hear conversations with friends, they can also come with some complications of their own. Some people find it difficult to replace the small batteries these devices require, particularly if they have limited vision or manual dexterity. For some, the solution may be the use of disposable hearing aids. Potential Advantages of Disposable Hearing Aids Fans of disposable hearing aids claim they have several advantages over conventional designs, including: No need to replace batteries. A disposable hearing aid’s batteries are a permanent part of the casing; when they die, you simply replace the device. Low maintenance. Because they are only worn for a short time (usually around two months), disposable models do not need to be adjusted over time. Easy replacement. If you lose or damage a conventional hearing aid, it can be expensive to replace. In contrast, disposable hearing aids usually cost under $100. However, this kind of hearing aid is not for everyone. They also have their downside. Potential Disadvantages of Disposable Hearing Aids Some people who have experimented with disposable hearing aids ultimately decided that conventional models are worth it, citing problems such as: Poor fit. Disposable models are not custom fitted; instead they have a flexible design to help them fit the majority of adult ears. For some users, however, the fit is simply uncomfortable. Standardized settings. While disposable hearing aids can usually be adjusted to some extent, their settings are mostly one-size-fits all. For people with severe hearing loss or other complications, these models may not provide adequate help. Frequent replacement. Disposable hearing aid batteries are designed to be long-lasting, but they do die eventually. Some people simply do not want to buy several hearing aids per year. Before you spend money on a disposable hearing aid, discuss the matter with a qualified audiologist. He or she can help you decide if it is right for you. Contact Us Need to learn more about hearing aids? HearingPlanet provides efficient, courteous, and knowledgeable assistance to each of our clients. Contact our hearing aid professionals at 1-800-432-7669. 2011-07-01T12:24:00-06:00