With over-the-counter (OTC) hearing aids now available to consumers, plus prescription hearing aids, there are more options than ever before for hearing devices. Originally, cost was one of the driving factors in the FDA’s decision to approve OTC hearing aid sales. And while there are some very affordable OTC options, OTC hearing aids aren’t appropriate for everyone. Some individuals need … Read More
New Research Shows Damage to Inner Ear Contributes to Falling
Vestibular Issues and Fall Risk in Alzheimer’s In a study of about 50 people with Alzheimer’s disease, Johns Hopkins researchers found evidence that damage to the inner ear system that controls balance is a major factor in patients’ well-documented higher risk of falling. The study found overall that vestibular system impairment was linked to a 50% increase in the risk … Read More
What’s the Most Affordable Hearing Aid?
With over-the-counter (OTC) hearing aids now approved by the Food and Drug Administration, hearing aid options have increased significantly and run the gamut from entry-level OTCs to more advanced prescription hearing aids, but how do you know what the most affordable option is for you? Whether you’re looking for OTC or prescription hearing aids, consider your budget, hearing needs, and … Read More
Tinnitus Causes, Diagnoses and Treatments
Tinnitus is often described as ringing in the ears, but each individual’s experience with tinnitus is different. Some hear crickets chirping, some hear ringing, buzzing or whooshing, and others hear white noise or clicking. The common denominator for most people who experience tinnitus is that it is the perception of sound when no external sound source is present. It can … Read More
Background Noise and Hearing Aids
Hearing Aids: Overcoming Background Noise Challenges Since the first hearing aids were invented, it seems being able to hear in background noise has been a problem. In fact, being able to hear in background noise is a major concern for many hearing aid wearers even now. Why? Imagine being at a busy restaurant. People are talking at tables all around … Read More
Can Headphones Damage Your Hearing?
Were the latest Bluetooth noise-cancelling headphones on your wish list this year? If so, you’ve likely had the chance to experience the sound and clarity the headphones are famous for, but did you know that overexposure to loud music over long periods of time can cause temporary or even permanent hearing loss? That’s right. Cranking the volume up on your … Read More
Five Things Your Heart and Hearing Have in Common
Heart Disease and Hearing Loss According to the Centers for Disease Control, about 20.1 million adults aged 20 and older have the most common form of heart disease, called coronary artery disease, or CAD. CAD happens when blood vessels narrow or become blocked by plaque. Though CAD is often years or even decades in the making, it can result in … Read More
Hearing Test vs. Diagnostic Hearing Evaluation?
Consumers often get mailings or see ads online promoting a free hearing test. Statements like, “Don’t pay for an expensive hearing test when you can get one for free,” or “We offer a no-cost hearing test,” sound too good to be true, and they are. In this blog, we’ll look at hearing tests and why it’s important to understand exactly … Read More
Types and Styles of Hearing Aids
With the addition of over-the-counter (OTC) hearing aids to the market, choices have become even more confusing for consumers. In this blog post, we’ll address the differences between prescription and over-the-counter hearing aids, and the types of hearing aids now available. Over-the-Counter or Prescription Hearing Aids? OTC hearing aids were recently approved by the FDA. Think of OTC hearing aids … Read More
Reduce Your Risk of Falling
According to the Centers for Disease Control (CDC), in 2019, 34,000 people over age 65 died as a result of falls, and another 3 million ended up in the emergency room. In fact, more than one out of four older adults fall each year, but less than half tell their doctor, and falling once doubles your chances of falling again. … Read More
