NO MORE BELLS AND WHISTLES

One of the potential dangers of being hearing impaired is the inability to hear whistles, sirens, and other alarm signals. With this in mind, hearing-impaired individuals may want to outfit their homes and workplaces with “alerting devices,” which use very loud noises, flashing lights, or vibrators to alert hearing-impaired persons to specific sounds. Some alerting devices can be wired directly to doorbells or plugged into telephones; more advanced systems use built-in microphones to listen for specific sounds, which then trigger an alert. Such systems can be used in conjunction with smoke detectors. The value of an alerting device lies in its potential to save the life of an individual who would not otherwise hear a warning alarm.

HIGH-FREQUENCY HEARING LOSS

It is estimated that one-third of the population suffers from high-frequency hearing loss that diminishes the ability to understand conversation. This type of loss usually compromises the listener’s ability to properly discern between consonants, even though vowel sounds can be heard clearly. As a result, those with high-frequency listening deficits cannot understand conversation. Fortunately, the digital technology employed by many hearing instruments helps listeners overcome this problem by enabling hearing instrument specialists to program the instrument in accordance with the listener’s individual type of hearing loss. In the case of those with high-frequency hearing loss, the high frequencies are specifically amplified to address the listener’s unique hearing loss pattern. As a result, consonants can be heard as clearly as vowels.

Your ability to hear is as unique as your fingerprints. Age, noisy environments, heredity, medical conditions, and childhood and adult illnesses can combine to produce different types of hearing losses in different people. When you need help with your hearing, we hope you’ll turn to the services of a Board Certified Hearing Instrument Specialist at FAMILY HEARING CARE CENTER. We’ll find the hearing instrument best suited to your hearing abilities. Call us at 781-337-1144 to arrange a free hearing test at 534 Main Street (Rt. 18), across from the Stetson Bldg. in Weymouth, or at our office in Abington.

P.S. The first noticeable symptom of high-frequency hearing loss often involves an inability to clearly hear children’s voices, which are inherently high-pitched.

WHEN HEARING LOSS LEADS TO ISOLATION

Even mild hearing losses have been found to negatively impact elderly individuals’ functioning ability. Communication problems arising from hearing loss often stand in the way of receiving proper medical treatment, strain family relations, and restrict the enjoyment of leisure activities. All this is because people who cannot hear well tend to withdraw rather than face the embarrassment of frequent misunderstandings and inappropriate responses. Instead of attempting to answer questions they do not understand, they become non-communicative. This withdrawal from social situations continues an average of ten years before assistance is sought. A more immediate response could lead them toward fuller lives more quickly. With this in mind, family members and friends of hearing-impaired seniors should suggest they get a hearing test.

P.S. New open-fit hearing instruments are comfortable to wear, are barely visible, and provide excellent results.

GETTING OLDER, HEARING LESS

Presbycusis, the loss of hearing that gradually occurs in most individuals as they age, is usually a sensorineural hearing disorder – meaning it is caused by gradual changes in the inner ear typically brought on by repeated exposure to noise. This results in a loss of hair cells (sensory receptors in the inner ear), which can also occur because of various health conditions and side effects of some medicines (aspirin and certain antibiotics). Symptoms of presbycusis include difficulty hearing and discerning high-pitched sounds, as well as difficulty understanding conversation, hearing others’ speech as mumbled or slurred, and loudness associated with certain sounds. For many people with presbycusis, these symptoms may be overcome with the use of a hearing instrument.

P.S. Presbycusis most often occurs in both ears, affecting them equally.

HEARING INSTRUMENT/CELL PHONE COMPATIBILITY

To address the problem of audio interference that hearing instrument wearers may experience when using cell phones, the FCC has required wireless phone manufacturers to produce products with reduced radio frequency (RF) emissions. Cell phones with a passing grade of “good” or “excellent” are assigned hearing aid compatibility (HAC) ratings of M3 or M4. (“M” stands for “microphone.”) The higher the “M” rating, the less expectation that a hearing instrument set in microphone mode will experience interference when the wearer is using a cell phone. As for cell phones that provide telecoil coupling capability, those with an HAC rating of “T3” or “T4” (“T” stands for “telecoil”) perform best. Because ratings don’t guarantee performance, consumers should “try before they buy.”

P.S. Hearing instrument manufacturers use a rating system that is similar to the one described above to let consumers know how well their hearing instruments work in the microphone or the telecoil mode.

A BIG LEAP IN HEARING TECHNOLOGY

The best of today’s hearing instruments mimic the natural hearing ability of the Chinese Torrent frog. Recent research has shown that this amphibian is one of the only animals (including bats and dolphins) that can make long-distance ultrasonic calls to its mating partners. Moreover, it is able to block out environmental background noise so that it can localize the ultrasonic love calls from female Chinese Torrent frogs extremely accurately. Thus, these frogs have something very much in common with many of today’s digital hearing instruments that employ technology that separates sounds and boosts volume levels of the ones that listeners want to hear most. As a result, hearing instrument users are able to hear conversation above the background noise.

P.S. Advanced digital hearing instruments can be programmed for different environments with varying levels of background noise, as well as automatically adapt to different settings based on the level of ambient noise.

HERE’S WHERE THINGS GET COMPLICATED

Hearing loss can be counted among the many complications that diabetics may have to face. This often-overlooked by-product of the disease happens to be twice as common among diabetics as it is among non-diabetics. According to research conducted at the National Institutes of Health, sounds of higher frequency are the ones most likely to be affected by diabetes. Researchers also noted that diabetes-related hearing loss can begin as early as 30 to 40 years of age. Moreover, even individuals with pre-diabetes, which is marked with mildly elevated blood sugar, have a 30 percent higher risk of hearing loss. This research serves as a warning to diabetics to have their hearing tested on a regular basis.

P.S. Diabetes can damage the nerves and blood vessels of the inner ear.

HIGHLY DEVELOPED HEARING

We humans should not underestimate our hearing ability. In fact, recent research reveals that people can develop the same system of acoustic signals used by bats and dolphins to “see” in their environments. “Echolocation” is the term used to describe the use of self-emitted palate clicks to identify surrounding objects without the use of eyes. This clicking sound, which approximates the sound that dolphins make two hundred times per second, involves placement of the tip of the tongue on the palate just behind the teeth and moving it backwards quickly. With practice, humans can learn to interpret these sounds as they bounce back off surrounding objects to identify the presence of objects.

P.S. Echolocation practiced by humans can have a variety of beneficial applications, from helping the blind to aiding firefighters in smoke-filled conditions.

A DECIDED SHIFT

Rock concert fans and workers in loud factories will be the first to tell you that prolonged exposure to loud noise often causes muffled hearing and fullness in their ears over the next day or so. This temporary noise-induced hearing loss, referred to as “temporary threshold shift,” is the result of damage sustained by the delicate hair cells of the inner ear. These hair cells, which are responsible for converting sound vibrations into the electrical impulses that the brain perceives as sound, can become damaged due to prolonged and excessive noise. While hearing usually returns to near-normal levels in a few days, those affected by temporary threshold shift should be careful that their hearing loss does not become permanent.

P.S. Tinnitus and temporary threshold shift should serve as warnings to users of recreational firearms of impending permanent noise-induced hearing loss.

HOW COOL IS YOUR HEARING INSTRUMENT?

Today’s hearing instruments enjoy a “cool” status that could barely be imagined 20 years ago. Ask any teenage girl to dislodge her iPod earbuds, and explain to her that your personal listening device fits in your ear canal, where it can scarcely be seen. Watch the look on her face when you tell her that your hearing instrument has a (telecoil) switch that essentially acts like a Bluetooth device, which wirelessly interfaces with phones, TVs, and even movie theatre sound tracks. Moreover, your device not only amplifies sound, it amplifies only those sounds you want and need amplified, similar to your own personal digital equalizer. Finally, tell her to turn down the volume on her iPod to a safe level.

P.S. Completely-in-the-canal hearing instruments scarcely arouse the undue notice of others, unlike the hearing-impaired person without a hearing instrument who constantly asks people to repeat what they just said.

A WAKE-UP CALL

The World Health Organization (WHO) recently issued a statement concerning nighttime noise in European countries that the rest of the world may want to note. According to WHO, 20 percent of Europeans are exposed to excessive noise overnight that has the potential of damaging their health. The recommended limit of nighttime noise is an average 40 decibels, which corresponds to a quiet street in a residential neighborhood. The statement indicated that experiencing slightly higher noise levels may prompt some tossing and turning in bed, causing bouts of insomnia and other mild side effects. Levels above 55 decibels (the noise of a busy street) may cause sleepers to experience more serious side effects, such as high blood pressure and heart attacks.

P.S. The same ear protection (ear plugs) that people use during the day to protect themselves from excessive and prolonged daytime noise may prove to be equally worthwhile when worn at night.

A REAL EAR FOR HEARING MUSIC

Is it true that some people are born with a better ear for hearing music? After all, research shows that serious musicians display superior ability at perceiving and remembering sounds. However, more recent research shows that musicians do not have better ears, but they train their brains to perform certain listening tasks. Specifically, musicians can pick out the sound of their own instrument from the sound of an entire orchestra. Tests indicate that certain sounds stimulate musicians’ brains to produce stronger electrical signals, which enable them to more accurately assess pitch, timing, and tone quality (three factors that enable the average person to pick out a voice in a noisy room). This finding may lead to improved hearing instrument technology.

P.S. While ears gather sound and funnel signals through the nervous system, the brain interprets these signals and makes sense of them.

WHAT DO YOU HEAR?

If you think that hearing loss is solely a symptom of old age, you should know that many of the millions of people currently suffering from hearing loss are anything but old. Due to generally noisier environments and earphones that feed loud music directly into listeners’ ears, hearing loss is about two-and-a-half times more common among young people than it was just 25 years ago. Thus, younger individuals should forget the stereotypes surrounding hearing loss and old age and ask themselves if they experience difficulty hearing. If you experience problems hearing people speak, need the TV volume turned up inordinately loud, or have trouble hearing in noisy environments, you have reasons to believe that you are losing your hearing.

Regardless of a person’s age, discovering and acknowledging there is a hearing problem is the first step toward correcting it. The next step is turning to a board certified hearing instrument specialist for comprehensive examination, evaluation, and determination of the best approach to the impairment. Are you thinking there might be a problem with your hearing? Would you like to learn more about today’s advanced technology in hearing instruments? We can help you address these issues and others at FAMILY HEARING CARE CENTER, 534 Main Street (Rt. 18), across from the Stetson Bldg. in Weymouth. We can be reached at 781-337-1144

P.S. When it comes to hearing loss, prevention is best. Limit your exposure to loud noise.

FEELING THE MUSIC IN HIS BONES

Not only is Ludwig van Beethoven considered to be among the foremost musical geniuses that the world has ever known, but he was also hearing impaired. He began to lose his hearing at age 31, and he was totally deaf at age 42. So, how was he able to write his musical masterpieces without being able to hear a note? Using the same principle that makes a bone conduction hearing instrument work, Beethoven held a baton between his teeth and placed one end against a musical instrument. In this way, he was able to conduct sound vibrations through the stick to his teeth and on to the bones of his skull and into his inner ear.

The human ear is an amazing instrument. When its parts break down or fail to function properly, however, today’s remarkable technology is doing its best to keep pace to help the hearing impaired once again enjoy the sounds of the world around them. If you have concerns about your hearing, or a parent or other family member’s hearing abilities, we hope you’ll feel comfortable discussing today’s options for better hearing with a Board Certified Hearing Instrument Specialist at FAMILY HEARING CARE CENTER. Our facilities are full-service at 534 Main Street (Rt. 18), across from the Stetson Bldg. in Weymouth, and we welcome you to stop by or call us at 781-337-1144.

LIVING WITH TINNITUS

Tinnitus is the phantom ringing, buzzing, and whistling in the ear that arises from a malfunction in the ear, auditory nerve, or the brain. This noise that no one other than the person affected can hear is nearly always accompanied by hearing loss. The millions of tinnitus sufferers who annually seek medical advice for tinnitus are usually referred to an otolaryngologist and an audiologist for a hearing test. While some find that the condition can be silenced by treating an underlying condition (such as ear-wax buildup), most must find some way to live with it. Many are helped with hearing instruments that increase the sounds they want to hear and drown out those they don’t with built-in sound maskers.

At FAMILY HEARING CARE CENTER, we recognize that there are varied needs and uses for different kinds of hearing instruments. We carry a full range of styles of hearing aids because we want our patients to end up with the right kind of hearing aid that will enable them to hear to their best ability. And whether you’re dealing with tinnitus or hearing loss, you can count on us at 534 Main Street (Rt. 18), across from the Stetson Bldg. in Weymouth, for free hearing tests, experienced, knowledgeable recommendations, evaluations, fittings, and follow-up support. We can be reached at 781-337-1144. We accept most HMOs, State GIC, Union Benefits, and Mass Health.

THE REAL DEAL

To get the most accurate sense of how a hearing instrument is performing, the hearing instrument specialist will conduct a “real ear measurement.” This test involves placing a miniature microphone in the wearer’s ear canal to measure sounds that are introduced to the wearer’s ear. The measurement is taken both with and without the hearing instrument in the ear. This enables the hearing instrument specialist to calculate the difference between the two measurements, called the “real-ear insertion gain,” which provides information about how the sound is resonating and being amplified within the ear canal. This information provides a better understanding of how the signal should be changed to suit the wearer’s individual needs.

A hearing instrument that doesn’t fit properly or deliver the quality of sound the wearer has a right to expect is probably going to end up unworn at the back of the night table drawer. For free hearing testings, evaluations, a complete line of today’s most innovative hearing instruments, expert fittings, as well as follow-up adjustments using state-of-the-art technology, please call us at FAMILY HEARING CARE CENTER, 781-337-1144. When it comes to better hearing, you can always count on us being on your side and by your side. Located at 534 Main Street (Rt. 18), across from the Stetson Bldg. in Weymouth, we accept most HMOs, State GIC, Union Benefits, and Mass Health. Visit us on the web at www.familyhearing.net.

MAKING AN OBSERVATION

Ear infections, usually occurring in the middle ear, are the most common illness suffered by infants and children. Known as “otitis media,” they lead to “otitis media with effusion” when there is a buildup of fluid and mucus in the tubes of the middle ear. Otitis media causes severe pain and may result in serious complications (such as permanent hearing loss) if left untreated. For these reasons, parents of affected children usually insist on antibiotic treatment; however, it has been found that the infection usually clears up without antibiotic treatment. Thus, doctors may recommend an “observation option,” which calls for children aged two and over who are otherwise healthy to be observed for a short period before antibiotics are prescribed.

Because communication is a vital part of our world, we’ll do all we can to promote healthy hearing for all members of your family. At FAMILY HEARING CARE CENTER, we’ll start with a comprehensive hearing test and evaluation to determine the best course of action to follow. If a hearing impairment is detected, we’ll use all our knowledge and experience to match the correct instrument with your abilities in order to make the most of the hearing you do have. You can reach us at 781-337-1144, 534 Main Street (Rt. 18), across from the Stetson Bldg. in Weymouth. Visit us on the web at www.familyhearing.net.

P.S. Parents of children with ear infections should bear in mind that “observation” is different from “no treatment.”

TOP DOWN, NOISE LEVELS UP

Driving in a vehicle with a convertible top is one of the most pleasant of experiences. However, cruising around at high speeds with the top down does have the potential to adversely affect both the driver’s and passengers’ hearing ability. According to a recent study, noise levels in convertibles driven at high speeds exceed 85 decibels, which is the accepted threshold for hearing damage to occur. In fact, researchers measured average levels between 87 and 89 decibels when driving a variety of models of top-down cars at speeds of 50 mph, 60 mph, and 70 mph. The good news is that by rolling up the windows, convertible passengers could lower the decibel level somewhat, to 84 decibels.

Our noisy world offers no guarantees that we’ll have perfect hearing throughout our lives. We must accept the responsibility of protecting our hearing, in our recreational pursuits and our home and work environments, and do all we can to correct impairments. If you don’t hear as well as you feel you should, don’t wait until you feel left out. Have your hearing checked instead. Here at FAMILY HEARING CARE CENTER, helping you achieve your optimum hearing potential is our only business. We’re located at 534 Main Street (Rt. 18), across from the Stetson Bldg. in Weymouth. Call us at 781-337-1144 to arrange a free hearing test.

P.S. Convertible owners might also find the windscreens available from vehicle manufacturers to be a good investment that helps preserve their hearing.

THE FULLY IMPLANTABLE HEARING INSTRUMENT

While this type of hearing instrument certainly may not appeal to everyone, it is worth mentioning that there is a fully implantable hearing system for those who prefer a “stealth” hearing instrument. This “invisible” hearing instrument appeals to those who want to fully conceal the fact that they are wearing a hearing device. The fully implantable mechanism successfully addresses all these concerns by offering a device with a microphone that is surgically implanted beneath the skin behind the user’s ear. The rest of the implanted device (including battery, digital signal processor, and transducer) processes sounds and translates them into a mechanical motion that is delivered to the small bones of the middle ear.

Smile, laugh, talk, listen, and live again with a custom-fitted hearing instrument from FAMILY HEARING CARE CENTER. We pledge to provide you with professional services and the hearing device best suited to your individual needs to help improve your quality of life. Do you or someone you love have a hearing impairment? Come see us at 534 Main Street (Rt. 18), across from the Stetson Bldg. in Weymouth, or at our office in Abington, for a free, comprehensive, painless hearing test, the first step toward better hearing.. Please call us at 781-337-1144

P.S. The pre-programmed implantable hearing instrument mentioned above is both programmed and recharged remotely.

MAY I BE OF ASSISTANCE?

Aside from availing themselves of hearing instruments to help them hear better, those with hearing impairments may also utilize “assistive listening devices” (ALDs), which include telephone and television amplifiers, flashing or vibrating fire alarms, text telephones, and closed-caption televisions. Instead of turning up the volume of the television beyond the point that is tolerable for other people in the room, hearing-impaired individuals may also make use of an infrared system that transmits light waves to a special receiver in the wearer’s ear. Similarly, if a hearing-impaired individual wants to improve hearing in a classroom, auditorium, or theatre, he or she can use an FM transmitter that transmits radio waves directly to the user’s hearing device or headset.

There are many options available today to help hearing impaired individuals live happier, more fulfilled lives. If you’d like to find out more about assistive listening devices, contact us at FAMILY HEARING CARE CENTER. If you have a hearing instrument you are not happy with, bring it to us and we’ll be happy to check it out and discuss other hearing aid options with you. Your complete satisfaction is our ultimate goal here at 534 Main Street (Rt. 18), across from the Stetson Bldg. in Weymouth, so all new hearing instrument sales come with a trial period. You can reach us at 781-337-1144.

P.S. Under a new FCC rule, anyone who uses a wireless microphone that operates in the 700 MHz Band must stop operating his or her wireless microphone no later than June 12, 2010.

WAXING NOT SO POETIC

In small amounts, earwax is a natural ear cleanser. As it migrates outward from the ear canal, it gathers dead skin cells, hair, and dirt along the way. Earwax has antibacterial and antifungal properties that protect the ear from infections. However, if earwax accumulates a lot of debris and sits in the ear canal for a long time, it can become hard and dry enough to cause a blockage. Hearing instruments, which block the normal migration of earwax out of the ear, may be a contributing factor. Hearing instruments may also stimulate glands in the ear canal to produce more secretions. Keeping this in mind, hearing instrument users are advised to check for earwax buildup and treat it accordingly.

When it is difficult to tell whether ear wax or another physical impairment is causing a hearing loss, or because of the continual bombardment of noise, it’s time for a hearing test. Have a free hearing evaluation at FAMILY HEARING CARE CENTER so that we may accurately determine the reason behind your hearing loss. And if a hearing instrument is indicated, rest assured we carry a full range of brands and types here at 534 Main Street (Rt. 18), across from the Stetson Bldg. in Weymouth, and we’ll find the one that is right for you. We accept most HMOs, State GIC, Union Benefits, and Mass Health. PH: 781-337-1144.

P.S. By some estimates, between 60% and 70% of the hearing instruments sent for repair are damaged by earwax.

LISTENING IN SILENCE

The ear’s ability to transmit and the brain’s ability to discern silence are critical to understanding speech. In noisy environments, in particular, it can be difficult for the brain to find the boundaries between the different parts of words, making understanding conversation difficult. In an effort to better understand this mechanism, researchers studied the brain’s listening ability. They found that the brain switches to a different mechanism to interpret silence. That is to say that there is a whole separate channel that travels all the way from the ear to the brain that is specialized in detecting silence. This discovery could lead to new treatment in helping children with speech and learning problems, as well as new hearing instrument designs.

Even though we hear with our ears, the ability to understand what people are saying occurs in the hearing center of the brain. So when an uncorrected hearing loss causes diminished communication, it’s time to rediscover the benefits of healthy hearing and the wondrous hearing instruments available today. Begin with a hearing test at FAMILY HEARING CARE CENTER and a consultation with a Board Certified Hearing Instrument Specialist. We’re located at 534 Main Street (Rt. 18), across from the Stetson Bldg. in Weymouth, and you can reach us at 781-337-1144. We accept most HMOs, State GIC, Union Benefits, and Mass Health.

P.S. In today’s noisy world, silence is something to be venerated.

AN INNER-EAR BYPASS

The ear is divided into three parts: The outer ear consists of the external ear and ear canal; the middle ear contains the eardrum and three small bones; and the inner ear includes the cochlea, three semi-circular canals, and one end of the auditory nerve (leading to the brain). In the complex inner ear, the cochlea is filled with fluid surrounding thousands of tiny hair cells (cilia) that translate vibrations into electrical currents that go to the brain. Those with severe sensorineural (nerve) hearing loss in both ears that doesn’t improve with traditional hearing instruments might consider a cochlear implant. This serves as an “inner-ear bypass” that takes sound from the outside world and transmits it to the auditory nerve.

Although you might suspect that you need help with your hearing, you may not be aware of the different modes of treatment, hearing instruments, and other hearing enhancement devices that are available today. It takes the knowledge, experience, and dedication of from a Board Certified Hearing Instrument Specialist to accurately assess an individual’s hearing loss and then match and custom-fit that individual with the most appropriate hearing aid. We care about your hearing abilities at FAMILY HEARING CARE CENTER, 534 Main Street (Rt. 18), across from the Stetson Bldg. in Weymouth, and we’ll do all we can to bring the sounds of life back to you. PH: 781-337-1144.

P.S. A cochlear implant has an external microphone, which picks up and transmits sound to a receiver implanted in the skull that relays electrical impulses to electrodes connected to the auditory nerve.

TURNED UP, DOWN, OR OFF?

Youngsters are characteristically turned off by parental warnings concerning safety. However, if they do not listen to what their parents have to say about listening to loud music on their MP3 players, children may soon not be able to hear much of anything. The fact is that, because MP3 players allow children to listen to music at unsafe volume levels, young listeners to loud music are vulnerable to noise-induced hearing loss. In fact, they may be at as much risk for hearing loss as factory workers who labor in loud working conditions without hearing protection. While the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) imposes safety standards for occupational noise exposure, children enjoy no similar benefit unless parents speak up.

If you’ve put off doing something about your hearing, perhaps out of embarrassment, now is the time to call us at FAMILY HEARING CARE CENTER. We offer many services to our clients, including free hearing evaluations, comprehensive hearing tests, a full range of hearing instruments, and unsurpassed personal attention from a Board Certified Hearing Instrument Specialist. We have offices at 534 Main Street (Rt. 18), across from the Stetson Bldg. in Weymouth, and in Abington. Call us at 781-337-1144 for a no-wait appointment

P.S. Adolescents generally believe that they are impervious to the damaging effects of listening to loud music.

MUSIC TO TINNITUS SUFFERERS’ EARS?

Tinnitus (ringing in the ears) affects millions of people who will be interested to know that they may be helped with “individually designed music therapy.” This treatment consists of creating music that is adapted to the tastes of a tinnitus sufferer and stripped of the sound frequencies that match his or her tinnitus frequencies. According to the German researchers who developed “notched” musical therapy, tinnitus sufferers provided with this musical treatment reported a distinct reduction of the ringing in their ears after one year of treatment. These findings suggest that the custom-tailored, notched musical treatment could help in reducing tinnitus and improve the quality of life in the one to three percent of the population that suffers from ear ringing.

Another current avenue of relief that tinnitus sufferers may want to explore is wearing a masker, a hearing device that produces white noise to counteract the annoying, sometimes debilitating, sounds of tinnitus. There are many products on the market today to address the needs of the hearing impaired, from maskers to difficult-to-see open hearing instruments to assistive listening devices. To find out what’s new in better hearing today, we invite your call at FAMILY HEARING CARE CENTER, 781-337-1144. We offer complete hearing healthcare services at 534 Main Street (Rt. 18), across from the Stetson Bldg. in Weymouth.

P.S. While the exact cause of tinnitus is not known, research shows that the auditory cortex (the region of the brain that processes sound) is often distorted in tinnitus sufferers.

CAN PAINKILLERS DAMAGE HEARING?

If you think only loud music poses a threat to your hearing, you should know that recent research suggests that over-the-counter painkillers may cause similar damage, especially among younger men. This finding comes from a study in which researchers found that men under age 50 who took acetaminophen more than two times per week experienced about double the risk of hearing loss as non-acetaminophen users. Among the same age group of men, researchers also found that twice-a-week users of ibuprofen and other non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) had nearly a 66% greater risk of hearing loss than men who took NSAIDs less often. Among the NSAIDs, very high doses of aspirin are already known to exert toxic effects on the ears.

Although hearing loss often goes undetected, it is actually one of the most common health problems in North America. And when we realize how many causes there are for hearing impairment, including medications, disease, high-tech phones and music players, aging, noise pollution, heredity, trauma, and smoking, it’s no wonder the numbers are so high. If your hearing is not what it once was or what it should be, find out how good it could be at FAMILY HEARING CARE CENTER. Call us at 781-337-1144 to arrange a free hearing test at 534 Main Street (Rt. 18), across from the Stetson Bldg. in Weymouth.

P.S. Aspirin, ibuprofen, and acetaminophen, the three most commonly used drugs in this country, may be responsible for the fact that hearing loss is the most common sensory disorder in the United States.

THE INVISIBLE EXTENDED-WEAR INSTRUMENT

For hearing-impaired individuals who would like to take advantage of a hearing instrument that is 100% invisible, there is an extended-wear device that can be placed entirely in the ear canal. Unlike other hearing instruments, the extended-wear device is placed deep in the ear canal (without any need for anesthesia or surgery) by a trained hearing professional about four millimeters from the ear drum and approximately 24 millimeters from the opening of the ear. This positioning enables the invisible extended-wear instrument to avail itself of the outer ear’s architecture to provide a natural sound. The deep placement of the extended-wear instrument also reduces feedback noise. The instrument can be worn 24 hours a day for months at a time.

Research and technology continue to work toward enhancing the quality of life of the hearing impaired. We’d like to do our part by providing a free hearing testing and an experienced evaluation, coupled with the most advanced, comfortable, dependable instruments on the market today. At FAMILY HEARING CARE CENTER, we can help with acoustic appraisal of your hearing ability, discussion of the listening devices available, and follow-up care and service of your hearing aid. You can reach us at 781-337-1144, 534 Main Street (Rt. 18), across from the Stetson Bldg. in Weymouth.

P.S. The above-mentioned invisible extended-wear hearing instrument was featured on a 2009 Dr. Oz show.

A CHECK OF BABY BOOMERS’ HEARING

Despite all the loud rock music, it seems that Baby Boomers’ hearing is better than many expected it to be. In fact, members of the Boomer generation seem to have better hearing than their parents had. According to a recent study that was limited to Caucasian Americans, hearing problems among people between ages 45 and 75 have been declining for years. Among people in these age groups, males showed an average 13 percent decline in the risk of hearing impairment for every five-year increase in the date of their birth; women displayed a 6 percent decrease. Experts cite quieter work environments, better hearing protection, less disease (due to antibiotics and immunizations), and even less smoking as reasons for the improvement.

Whatever their age, level of physical activity, occupation, or recreational pursuits, our primary goal at FAMILY HEARING CARE CENTER is to help as many people as possible improve and protect their hearing abilities. If you have a hearing impairment, you can count on us to help you find the best solutions to opening your life to better hearing. If you are concerned about protecting your hearing, we’ll be glad to give you advice as to how. Call us at 781-337-1144 to start the process with a free hearing test at 534 Main Street (Rt. 18), across from the Stetson Bldg. in Weymouth, or at our office in Abington. We accept most HMOs, State GIC, Union Benefits, and Mass Health.

P.S. Another explanation for the improvement in hearing ability observed in Baby Boomers may involve better control of heart disease and diabetes, both of which are related to hearing loss.

SWIMMER’S EAR RELIEF

As swimmers take to the water this summer, “swimmer’s ear” (otitis externa) unfortunately becomes more prevalent. This inflammation of the ear canal, which may or may not involve infection, leaves a person’s ear feeling blocked and sensitive to touch. These symptoms are caused by trapped water in the ear that allows bacteria to spread and cause a painful sensation. To alleviate pain and any associated hearing loss, those afflicted with swimmer’s ear (usually children and teenagers) are treated with either eardrops or oral antibiotics. Typically, symptoms will last for about six days after treatment begins. If symptoms persist after seven to ten days, treatment should be extended. If symptoms last more than two weeks, another treatment should be considered.

No matter what your choice of recreation, hobby, occupation, or sport, it is vital to protect your hearing. Nothing affects your daily happiness and well-being as the ability to hear and understand. Are you wondering about the state of your hearing? Take that all-important first step and visit FAMILY HEARING CARE CENTER for a free hearing test. With today’s technology, there’s little reason to put up with missing the glorious sounds of life. We’re located at 534 Main Street (Rt. 18), across from the Stetson Bldg. in Weymouth. PH: 781-337-1144.

P.S. People prone to swimmer’s ear can protect their ears when they swim by wearing ear plugs.

AN UP-AND-DOWN RIDE

If your summer plans include roller-coaster rides, you should be aware of the potential for a common ear injury that can cause temporary hearing loss and pain. The fact is that the force of acceleration in these rides can cause “ear barotrauma” due to the rapid change in pressure between the external environment, the eardrum, and the pressure in the middle ear. This phenomenon, also commonly experienced in an airplane or during an automobile trip at elevated altitudes, leads to ear popping, discomfort/pain, and hearing loss. While symptoms are temporary, the pain can be considerable and the hearing loss can be a source of concern. The faster and higher the ride, the greater the possibility that ear barotraumas may occur.

We can’t emphasize it enough—protect your hearing! When irreversible damage has been done, however, come see us at FAMILY HEARING CARE CENTER for a free hearing evaluation. You’ll be amazed at the variety of hearing instruments available today and how they can enhance your hearing, and we’ll advise you which one would be of the most benefit to your individual needs. We will also be glad to show you different kinds of hearing protection devices. Have a hearing test soon at 534 Main Street (Rt. 18), across from the Stetson Bldg. in Weymouth, or at our office in Abington. Call 781-337-1144.

P.S. The safest position to assume on a roller coaster involves facing forward for the entire ride. Turning the head sideways subjects the ear to the full impact of the rapid acceleration.

IN HUSBANDS’ DEFENSE

Because the sensorineural hearing loss associated with “presbycusis” (age-related hearing loss) first presents itself as an inability to discern women’s (and children’s) higher-pitched speech, it is sometimes facetiously referred to as “wife deafness.” Men tend to be identified with this label because their wives can hear men’s low-pitched voices and men are often affected by age-related hearing loss more than women. People with this form of hearing loss may try to compensate by asking conversation partners to speak louder, but this approach rarely helps because their speech discrimination is so poor. Even worse, some hearing-impaired individuals either cannot hear, or ignore, words directed to them. At this point, it makes sense to examine the need for a hearing instrument.

Millions of people of all ages face the daily challenge of living with a hearing loss. And while the number of hearing impaired individuals is on the rise, so too are the ways of dealing with hearing impairment. If you or a loved one fall victim to hearing loss, don’t suffer in silence. Instead, take the first step toward changing your life. Visit FAMILY HEARING CARE CENTER for a free hearing test and to discuss the revolutionary options available today to help maximize your hearing potential. Complete hearing health care services are available at 534 Main Street (Rt. 18), across from the Stetson Bldg. in Weymouth.

P.S. People with age-related hearing loss often cannot distinguish between consonant sounds, leading them to confuse the words spoken by others.

ATTRACTIVE FEATURES

When it comes to customizing their hearing instruments, one feature that consumers find most attractive is directional microphones. Using two microphones helps better separate unwanted sounds (from behind the wearer) from important speech sounds (in front). As a result, the wearer is better able to understand conversation in noisy environments. Another feature that hearing instrument users find very useful is multiple compression channels, which react to important speech sounds by increasing volume while simultaneously lowering the volume on ambient noise and sudden loud sounds. Multiple programs, also known as “memories,” are also high on consumers’ list of desirable features because they enable the wearer to change the listening characteristics of the hearing instrument from one environment to another.

Today, there are more choices than ever before for consumers purchasing hearing instruments. How do you decide which is the right kind for you? The best way is to place your trust in the hands of a Board Certified Hearing Instrument Specialist with a reputation for skill, knowledge, compassion, and integrity. We believe you’ll find this at FAMILY HEARING CARE CENTER, 534 Main Street (Rt. 18), across from the Stetson Bldg. in Weymouth, where you can begin with a free hearing test to determine how we can best meet your needs. PH: 781-337-1144. We accept most HMOs, State GIC, Union Benefits, and Mass Health.

P.S. Popular hearing instrument features among consumers are “noise cancellation” (which makes listening to speech more comfortable in noisy environments) and “feedback cancellation” (which eliminates annoying squealing and whistling noises).

BETTER TEST NEEDED

Recent research raises concerns that testing the DNA in newborns’ blood samples is not an effective way to detect cytomegalovirus (CMV), an infection that causes hearing loss in children. Between 20,000 and 40,000 children are born with CMV infection annually in North America, and 90%-95% of this number show no obvious signs at birth nor are identified with routine clinical examination. When researchers compared CMV detection using either a DNA test or saliva rapid culture testing, they found that the DNA test had lower sensitivity than the saliva test. In fact, the DNA test could not identify about two-thirds of the CMV infections. As for saliva rapid culture testing, it is more effective but not yet ready for mass screening.

Put your hearing future in the hands of a caring professional. When a hearing impairment is discovered, it is the job of the Board Certified Hearing Instrument Specialist to find the perfect match between patient and remedy. He or she will take into consideration all the many factors that can affect the success of treatment of a hearing loss. Let us do what we do best—call on FAMILY HEARING CARE CENTER for free testing, experienced evaluations, custom fittings, quality hearing products, and follow-up care. We’re easy to find at 534 Main Street (Rt. 18), across from the Stetson Bldg. in Weymouth, and you can reach us at 781-337-1144.

P.S. Cytomegalovirus (CMV) infection ranks among the most common non-genetic causes of deafness.

INSTRUMENTS FOR ACTIVE LIFESTYLES

One of the best ways to ensure satisfaction with the hearing instrument you choose is to base its selection on your lifestyle. Without question, those with active lifestyles will need a hearing instrument that is compatible with a “life on the go.” With this in mind, active individuals will want to avail themselves of such features as automatic adaptive directional microphones, which have been clinically proven to improve speech understanding amid background noise. Another very useful feature (especially on a boat or on the golf course) is a wind-noise management system. Data-logging and data-learning devices also prove to be very helpful by allowing for more precise custom programming and reducing visits to the hearing specialist’s office for adjustments.

The many marvels that exist in the hearing industry today make it easier than ever to enhance your hearing. You can always count on finding the best way to get the sounds of life back when you put your hearing healthcare needs in the expert, compassionate hands of a Board Certified Hearing Instrument Specialist at FAMILY HEARING CARE CENTER. Together, we’ll investigate ways to improve your hearing, and we’ll set real-istic goals for better communication. Our objective at 534 Main Street (Rt. 18), across from the Stetson Bldg. in Weymouth, is to meet all your hearing healthcare needs, now and in the future. Call us at 781-337-1144.

P.S. Bluetooth connectivity to mobile phones, mp3 players, and other electronic devices also proves to be very useful to active hearing instrument users.

A CAFFEINE CONNECTION?

There is a widespread belief that caffeine consumption is connected with tinnitus (ringing in the ears) and that giving up caffeine can relieve this annoying (and sometimes debilitating) condition. However, recent research rejects this notion. According to English researchers, drinking caffeinated beverages will not make tinnitus worse, nor will giving up caffeine make tinnitus any better.

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