New Generation Hearing Blog

Diabetes and Hearing Loss

NGHearing — Tue, 17 Jan 2012 15:10:32 +0000

The National Institute of Health (NIH) has found a connection between hearing loss and diabetes. According to NIH, individuals suffering from diabetes are twice more likely to suffer from hearing loss, than those who do not have the disease. It also explains how “of the 79 million adults thought to have pre-diabetes, the rate of hearing loss is 30% higher than in those with normal blood sugar.

As researchers explain, hearing health can be affected by small blood vessels and nerves found in the inner ear. High blood glucose levels can damage these blood vessels resulting in loss of hearing.

It is important to look for signs that may indicate you may suffer from hearing loss. These including having to ask people to repeat themselves. Increasing the volume of your television. Being asked to lower your voice, among others.

If you suffer from diabetes and believe your hearing health might be damaged, contact your local Miami Hearing Center. An audiologist will be able to diagnose and treat the condition.

Occupational Hearing Loss Treatment and Prevention

NGHearing — Tue, 10 Jan 2012 14:23:06 +0000

In a previous article we discussed the negative effects of Occupational Hearing Loss. In this article we will talk about the steps that you can take to prevent and treat this condition.

According to the National Institute of Health (NIH), it is recommended to protect your ear from loud noises. Working with loud equipment, or in a loud setting, using earplugs or earmuffs will help lower the noise your hearing is exposed to. It is also recommended not to indulge in activities which may add to the risk of suffering from hearing damage, such as listening to loud music with or without headphones.

If you have already been diagnosed with Occupational Hearing Loss, there is treatment you can undergo to help you better deal with the condition. As NIH states “The hearing loss is usually permanent. The goal of treatment is to prevent further hearing loss, improve communication with any remaining hearing, and develop coping skills (such as lip reading).” NIH adds, “Using a hearing aid may improve communication.”

For more information contact your local New Generation Miami Hearing Center.

Hearing Health and Academic Achievement

NGHearing — Wed, 04 Jan 2012 11:43:16 +0000

The early diagnosis of hearing loss in children is very important. This is because untreated hearing loss can have a negative impact in the child’s speech and language development. The American Speech Language Hearing Association discusses how it can also affect a child’s academic achievement.

According to ASHA “Children with hearing loss have difficulty with all areas of academic achievement, especially reading and mathematical concepts.” ASHA explains how children with loss of hearing, achieve four grade levels lower than those with normal hearing. It states “Children with severe to profound hearing loss usually achieve skills no higher than the third- or fourth-grade level, unless appropriate educational intervention occurs early.”

Parents should look for early signs that might indicate the child may suffer from hearing damage. Visiting an audiologist to receive a hearing test should be the next step to follow. The expert will help in prescribing the right hearing aid, as well as providing with treatments which will allow the child to perform at the same level as other children in their grade.

Seniors Suffer From Hearing Loss In Silence

NGHearing — Tue, 27 Dec 2011 11:29:00 +0000

The number of Americans now suffering from hearing loss is on the increase. As many people begin to age, their hearing starts to deteriorate. A survey conducted by AARP and the American Speech-Language-Hearing Association (ASHA) showed the importance that is placed on maintaining hearing health by individuals ages 50 and older.

Nicole Duritz, AARP Vice President states, “Maintaining hearing health as one ages is a very important concern among our members,” She goes on to explain “While the survey results indicate that older Americans recognize the impact hearing difficulties can have on relationships with family and friends, people are also going without treatment, which can negatively impact quality of life and lead to safety issues.”

The inability to hear properly and the lack of treatment can cause many seniors to suffer from depression and isolation. Receiving the correct treatment in the form of a hearing aid, can help them better deal with their condition. Family members and friends of the elderly, must encourage them to visit their local hearing center, where an audiologist can correctly diagnose and prescribe the right hearing aid.

Family Members Should Urge Relatives To Have Their Hearing Health Checked

NGHearing — Thu, 15 Dec 2011 19:55:04 +0000

During the holiday season, families tend to spend more time together to celebrate. During this time, it may become easier for family members to notice signs of hearing loss in their older relatives. While those exhibiting the hearing loss may think nothing of it and avoid visiting an audiologist, loss of hearing can actually have a very negative affect on one’s well-being and should not go untreated. For instance, hearing loss can hinder a person’s ability to interact with others and participate in family activities, eventually leading to isolation and depression.

If you notice a family member exhibiting signs of hearing loss during your holiday family gatherings, you should d take it upon yourself to encourage them to have their hearing health checked by a professional. An audiologist will be better able to provide a loved one with the right hearing aid, which will help improve their quality of life.

Waiting to be diagnosed will prolong the negative effects loss of hearing can have on your loved one’s life. Family members can help relatives understand the seriousness of their condition, and get the help they need.