Understanding the Different Types of Hearing Loss

Posted on November 30, 2023 by admin
Understanding The Different Types of Hearing Loss

Age-related hearing loss is a common occurrence, but did you know there are other types of hearing loss that can affect people of all ages? Regardless of the severity, like mild, moderate or severe, all hearing loss falls into 1 of 4 categories. Let’s take a closer look at those classifications so you have a better idea of what to watch for.

4 Types of Hearing Loss: Causes and Treatment

1. Conductive Hearing Loss

With the way our ears are structured, sound first passes through the outer and middle ear to the inner ear where it’s transmitted to the brain for interpretation. Conductive hearing loss occurs when sound is prevented from reaching the inner ear for one reason or another. Diagnosis often occurs through the taking of a thorough medical history, administering various hearing tests, or completing a visual inspection of the outer and middle ear.

Common causes of conductive hearing loss include:

  • Earwax buildup
  • Fluid buildup from allergies or a cold
  • Ear infections
  • A perforated eardrum
  • A structural abnormality

Common treatment of conductive hearing loss includes:

  • Medication to treat allergies, an ear infection, or another medical condition causing the hearing loss
  • Surgery to correct a structural defect
  • Earwax removal to clear an obstruction due to excess earwax
  • Hearing aids
  • Cochlear implants

2. Sensorineural Hearing Loss

This type of hearing loss affects inner ear function. Unfortunately, sensorineural hearing loss is permanent but that doesn’t mean it can’t be treated.

Common causes of sensorineural hearing loss include:

  • Use of ototoxic medications
  • Autoimmune diseases or other illnesses
  • The natural aging process
  • A genetic predisposition to this type of hearing loss
  • Structural malformation of the inner ear
  • Head trauma
  • Repeated exposure to loud noise

Common treatment of sensorineural hearing loss includes:

3. Mixed Hearing Loss

This type of hearing loss is just what it sounds like. It’s a mixture of sensorineural and conductive hearing loss, meaning that multiple parts of the ear are affected. Individuals with mixed hearing loss may experience tinnitus, ear pain or pressure, difficulty hearing soft sounds, and challenges understanding speech, among other symptoms.

Common causes of mixed hearing loss include:

  • The natural aging process
  • Ear infections
  • Head or ear trauma, including skull fractures
  • Repeated exposure to loud noise

Mixed hearing loss can be diagnosed through:

  • Hearing Tests – A thorough evaluation from an audiologist may include one or more of the following tests: audiometry, tympanometry, speech audiometry, otoacoustic emissions, and Weber testing. While each of these tests is different, they provide clues as to the type and degree of hearing loss present.

Common treatment of mixed hearing loss includes:

  • Surgery to correct a structural defect
  • Hearing aids
  • Cochlear implants

4. Auditory Neuropathy Spectrum Disorder (ANSD)

Sometimes, environmental sounds make it into the inner ear just fine. But when they get there, the signal to the brain is interrupted or jumbled. This is known as auditory neuropathy spectrum disorder, or ANSD. Symptoms include not being able to differentiate sounds and having difficulty understanding speech clearly.

Common causes of ANSD include:

  • Damage to inner ear hair cells
  • Genetic mutations or neurologic conditions
  • Damage to the auditory nerve
  • A head injury
  • Low oxygen prior to or after birth
  • Use of ototoxic medications

ANSD can be diagnosed through:

  • Otoacoustic Emissions (OAE) Testing: OAE testing measures how well the inner ear, or cochlea, functions. No response is required from the patient so this type of test is ideal for infants or people who are unable to communicate clearly. Otoacoustic emissions testing is often done as part of a newborn hearing screening to rule out hearing loss before a baby even leaves the hospital.
  • Auditory Brainstem Response (ABR): ABR testing is another way to measure the inner ear’s function. Electrodes are attached to the skin and brain activity is recorded in response to sounds sent to the patient’s ears through headphones. Like OAE testing, no response is required by the patient.

Common treatment of ANSD includes:

  • Hearing aids
  • Cochlear implants
  • Use of a hearing-assistive technology system

In addition to the treatment methods already mentioned, people with ANSD may benefit from knowing sign language or using visual communication skills for improved understanding of speech.

Treatment for Different Types of Hearing Loss in Mesa and Scottsdale, AZ

The good news is that the average person doesn’t have to completely understand the different types of hearing loss. After all, that’s what hearing professionals like audiologists are for! What you DO need to know are the common signs of hearing loss so you’ll be able to recognize hearing changes in yourself or a loved one when they occur.

At Advanced Hearing Group, we’re committed to helping people of all ages enhance their living through the gift of sound. While a good part of our job is to help people hear better after hearing loss has already occurred, we’re also determined to help people prevent hearing loss whenever possible. That’s why we offer custom hearing protection options and continually educate the public about the dangers of noise-induced hearing loss.

Whether you still have healthy hearing, you’re starting to notice hearing changes, or you’ve been dealing with hearing loss for a long time, we’d love to help. Simply give us a call or schedule an appointment online today. It’s time to hear well and live well!

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4 Steps to Protect Your Hearing and Prevent Hearing Loss

Posted on October 26, 2023 by admin
protect your hearing

No one looks forward to growing old and needing to wear hearing aids, but that will be inevitable if you don’t protect your hearing NOW. In fact, if you’re regularly exposed to loud noise without the appropriate hearing protection, that day could come far more quickly than you expect … even BEFORE you grow old.

According to the Centers For Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), “an estimated 12.5% of children and adolescents aged 6-19 years (approximately 5.2 million) and 17% of adults aged 20-69 years (approximately 26 million) have suffered permanent damage to their hearing from excessive exposure to noise.” These figures represent a significant number of people and this is one statistical group you don’t want to be part of.

What kinds of sounds can cause noise-induced hearing loss? The list is endless but in short, ANY sound that’s louder than 85 decibels (dB) can cause permanent hearing damage. Activities like mowing your lawn, watching fireworks, or attending your favorite band’s concert can all register at 100 dB or more.

4 Ways to Protect Your Hearing

The good news is that noise-induced hearing loss IS preventable if you simply know what hearing protection measures are appropriate and effective. According to Johns Hopkins Medicine, here are four ways to protect your hearing now that can also help you hear better in the future:

1. Schedule routine hearing tests with an audiologist.

Remember when you were younger and you got a hearing test at school as part of your yearly checkup? While annual hearing tests are often advised or even mandated for school aged children, adults often let them go by the wayside. Perhaps that’s because many people think they don’t have to worry about hearing changes until they get ‘old’.

The truth is that hearing loss can occur at ANY age and to anyone. Of course, if you’re regularly exposed to loud noise at work or even at play, your risk for hearing loss increases. If you get a baseline hearing test, and then subsequent tests yearly after that, it’ll be easy for your audiologist or other healthcare provider to recognize when there’s been even a small change in your hearing. Early diagnosis and treatment of hearing loss may alert you to lifestyle factors you can change that would prevent your hearing from getting worse.

2. Wear appropriate hearing protection when exposed to loud noise.

If you work in a noisy environment, there’s a good chance that your employer may be required to provide hearing protection for you. If they do, be sure to wear it AND make sure it’s adequate for the type of noise exposure you have. You may want to talk to an audiologist about professional hearing protection options that are designed specifically for you and your situation.

Hearing protection applies to your life outside of work, too. There’s no need to give up noisy recreational activities to protect your hearing if you’re willing to wear ear plugs, headphones, or other protective devices. Just plan ahead and be prepared for those times when loud noise exposure will be inevitable.

3. Turn down the volume on your devices.

Listening to music or watching TV shouldn’t make anyone else in the room uncomfortable. If others often complain that the volume on these devices is too loud, you’re setting yourself up for noise-induced hearing loss. Keep the volume at a comfortable level. You should be able to easily hear when you’re next to the device but you DON’T need to be able to hear it from the next room!

4. Get custom ear molds for your headphones.

Imagine having the ultimate listening experience WITHOUT having to turn up the volume too much on your devices. This is possible when you have custom ear molds that can connect to your headphones’ wires. You’ll be able to hear better at a safer volume and background noise is significantly reduced.

Protect Your Hearing With the Help of Our Mesa and Scottsdale Audiologists

At Advanced Hearing Group, we love helping people in and around Mesa and Scottsdale, AZ have the ultimate hearing experience. For many, that means treating hearing loss that has already occurred and fitting them with the best hearing aids available. But we really get excited when we can help people PREVENT hearing loss, and we’d love to do the same for YOU!

Schedule an appointment with our audiologists today. We’ll be happy to conduct a hearing test and thorough hearing evaluation, as well as provide recommendations for ways you can protect your hearing that fit your lifestyle and your budget. Let’s get you on the road to hearing well and living well … for the rest of your life!

Read the full story from Johns Hopkins Medicine here.

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ADHD or Hearing Loss: How to Tell the Difference

Posted on September 4, 2023 by admin
It can be difficult to tell between ADHD and hearing loss in children, but a hearing test can help.
ADHD can be a common diagnosis for children, but undiagnosed hearing loss could be the reason for developmental delays.

If you’ve noticed that your child has difficulty paying attention in the classroom, or that they can’t seem to focus on class assignments, it might be a good idea to find out if they have ADHD or hearing loss. That’s because ADHD, or Attention-Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder, and hearing loss can present with similar symptoms. Unfortunately, both conditions can have a significant impact on your child’s overall development and progress in school.

What is ADHD?

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), Attention-Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder is one of the most common neurodevelopmental conditions of childhood. Children with ADHD often exhibit a variety of symptoms including, but not limited to:

● Impulsive behaviors
● A short attention span
● Difficulty focusing on tasks
● Excessive squirming, fidgeting, or overall activity
● Difficulty taking turns or interacting appropriately with peers

Unfortunately, diagnosis of ADHD can be difficult and somewhat subjective in nature. That’s because there are no specific tests that can be done to determine the presence or absence of the disorder. Instead, healthcare professionals must rely on observations of a child’s behavior and psychological symptoms in order to make a diagnosis.

What is hearing loss?

Hearing loss is a term that is commonly used to describe a condition in which someone has hearing levels that are below normal thresholds, either in one ear or both. The National Institutes of Health further breaks down hearing loss by severity:

● Mild: hearing loss of 20-40 decibels
● Moderate: hearing loss of 41-60 decibels
● Severe: hearing loss of 61-80 decibels
● Profound: hearing loss of more than 81 decibels

Children with hearing loss often exhibit the following symptoms:

● Inappropriate behaviors such as acting out or not responding
● Reduced attention span
● Difficulty with social interactions
● Impaired academic performance
● Speech and language delays

Fortunately, there IS a way to diagnose and quantify hearing loss definitively. The most common method is through a newborn hearing screening for infants or a hearing test for older children.

How to tell if your child has ADHD or hearing loss

You may have noticed some similarities between the ADHD and hearing loss symptoms we just mentioned. Since these two conditions often present similarly, it can be challenging for parents, caregivers, or educational staff to determine the exact reason for a child’s behaviors or poor academic performance.

Unfortunately, a misdiagnosis of ADHD when the problem is actually hearing loss can lead to unnecessary prescription of medication for treatment. An inaccurate diagnosis also does little to help with a child’s impaired performance at school. And, failure to recognize hearing loss and treat it appropriately can lead to speech and language delays.

So, what is the best way to tell if your child has ADHD or hearing loss? First, it’s essential to realize that they could actually have both. And, as the parent, there’s no need for you to figure it all out on your own. Be sure to mention your concerns to your child’s pediatrician. He or she can then refer you to the appropriate medical professional.

To determine whether your child has ADHD or hearing loss, a hearing test is often performed first. This, along with a thorough audiologic evaluation, can rule out or confirm the presence of hearing loss. Then, your child may be referred to a psychologist for further evaluation, diagnosis, and treatment if there is still a concern about Attention-Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder.

Professional hearing loss treatment for children in Mesa or Scottsdale

At Advanced Hearing Group, we see people of all ages with hearing loss, including babies and children. Some parents seek the help of our Mesa or Scottsdale audiologists after their baby has failed a newborn hearing screening. Others schedule a hearing test for their school-aged children after seeing them have difficulties in the classroom.

If you suspect your child has ADHD or hearing loss, it’s important to seek professional help right away. The sooner an accurate diagnosis can be made, the sooner an effective treatment plan can be created and implemented. Then, your child can be well on their way to healthy development and a positive educational experience at school.

If you live in or near Mesa or Scottsdale, Arizona, Advanced Hearing Group IS the hearing health clinic near you. Schedule an appointment with our audiologists today and we can help your child get on the road to better hearing.

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Can You Help Your Brain by Treating Hearing Loss?

Posted on July 29, 2023 by admin

Ask anyone what the main reason for treating hearing loss is and the response is pretty predictable. Most people will answer with something along the lines of “the purpose of hearing loss treatment is to help you hear better.

Finally being able to hear your spouse, children, grandchildren, or TV better IS a great benefit of hearing loss treatment. However, in our opinion, it’s not the most important one. In reality, the number one reason our Mesa and Scottsdale audiologists encourage people to treat their hearing loss is to promote good cognitive health and delay the onset of age-related cognitive decline.

So, how does treating hearing loss help your brain? We’ll talk about that in just a minute but first, let’s look at exactly what hearing loss treatment entails.

Treating Hearing Loss Is a Journey, Not a One-Time Event

Many people think that hearing loss treatment is something they get once and then they’re done. In reality, though, the only time this might be the case is when you choose to purchase over-the-counter (OTC) hearing aids. That’s because OTC hearing aids don’t require a hearing test, can be purchased without a prescription at your local pharmacy, and they must be fitted and adjusted by the user.

In contrast, treating hearing loss by working closely with an audiologist or other hearing professional is a process. Here, we’ll walk you through the steps in the hearing loss treatment journey.

Key Steps for Treating Hearing Loss Effectively

1. Identify that you have a hearing problem.

Obviously, you can’t treat a problem if you don’t even know it exists. Have friends, family members, or even acquaintances been telling you that you have hearing loss? Maybe you’ve even recognized it yourself after having difficulty hearing conversations or discerning sounds in noisy environments. Either way, the first step in the journey is to admit you have a problem.

2. Schedule a thorough hearing evaluation with an audiologist.

Now that you think you have a hearing problem, it’s time to find out if your assumptions are correct. The only way to know for sure is with a hearing test and a thorough hearing evaluation. A hearing test will measure whether you do, in fact, have hearing loss and will help determine the severity of the loss. Beyond that, your audiologist will evaluate other factors like medical conditions that could impact your hearing.

3. Review options for treating hearing loss with your audiologist and family.

Many people assume that if they have hearing loss, they’ll automatically be fitted with hearing aids as the solution. However, that isn’t always the case. There are a variety of factors involved including the type and severity of hearing loss as well as its cause.

For example, some instances of hearing loss are actually the result of another medical condition. In these cases, effective treatment of that condition may also resolve the hearing problem. There are also some cases where surgery or medication are viable options for treating hearing loss.

4. If hearing aids are recommended, start with a trial period.

Here’s where the biggest difference between hearing aids purchased over the counter versus those prescribed by an audiologist occurs. With OTC hearing aids, you simply go to the store and buy them, follow the operating instructions included with the devices, and hope that they’ll help you hear better. (Also keep in mind that OTC hearing aids are only meant for people with mild to moderate hearing loss.)

When your audiologist prescribes hearing aids, however, the process looks much different. First, they’ll help you find the best hearing aids that meet your specific hearing needs, fit within your budget, and match your lifestyle. The devices will be set at a high enough level for you to notice improved hearing abilities but low enough so your brain doesn’t become overwhelmed with all of the ‘new’ sounds it’s having to process.

Then, you’ll wear the hearing aids for a 1-2 week trial period. During this time, you can make note of what works and what doesn’t. In a follow-up appointment with your audiologist, further adjustments can be made to set the hearing aids at the appropriate level for the ultimate hearing benefit.

5. Get periodic hearing aid adjustments or new hearing aids to address hearing changes over time.

Treating hearing loss is important, but it’s an ongoing process you’ll need to do for the rest of your life. That’s because your hearing will continue to change as you age. And as it does, your hearing aid prescription will need to change along with it in order for you to get the maximum benefits from wearing hearing aids.

In the video below, one of our audiologists walks you through the entire hearing loss treatment journey so you can learn exactly what to expect along the way.

How Does Treating Hearing Loss Help Delay Cognitive Decline?

Now that you know how hearing loss should be treated, let’s look at why we think it’s so vital for cognitive health.

First, it’s important to note that cognitive decline is a normal part of the aging process. However, it can happen more quickly when your brain doesn’t get adequate stimulation from your senses like vision or hearing.

People with untreated hearing loss often avoid situations where hearing is difficult. This can lead to social isolation and even further reduction of auditory stimuli. When hearing loss is treated, however, sensory deprivation is reduced and the brain continues to be stimulated, promoting better cognitive health.

Professional Hearing Loss Treatment in Mesa and Scottsdale, AZ

At Advanced Hearing Group, we’d love to be your partner in treating hearing loss. From hearing tests and thorough hearing evaluations to hearing aid prescriptions and other treatment options, we’ll be by your side all throughout your hearing loss treatment journey. We even offer hearing aid repair services to keep your hearing aids working effectively.

Simply schedule an appointment with us today and we’ll help you get on the road to better hearing!

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Hearing Aids Prescribed by an Audiologist vs. OTC Hearing Aids: What’s the Difference?

Posted on June 30, 2023 by admin
Audiologist administers a hearing test to a client to check for hearing loss.

In recent years, over-the-counter (OTC) hearing aids have been getting a lot of attention. But, one question remains in the minds of many people: How are hearing aids prescribed by an audiologist different from OTC hearing aids you can get at your local pharmacy?

Here’s the quick answer: The actual hearing aid technology itself may not be all that different. Whether the hearing devices are purchased over the counter or through an audiologist, hearing aids are meant to improve your hearing ability when your natural hearing has declined. What IS significantly different between the two hearing aid sources is the hearing loss treatment journey.

Notice the word ‘journey’. Contrary to what many people believe, hearing loss treatment is NOT a one-time event. For example, purchasing hearing aids and wearing them is NOT the end of the story. To illustrate this point, let’s take a closer look at what happens when you get hearing aids prescribed by an audiologist.

Your Hearing Loss Journey: What Hearing Loss Treatment Looks Like From an Audiologist

When you work closely with a hearing healthcare provider to treat your hearing loss, there are several steps that are part of the process. Here, we’ll go through each one so you’ll have a clearer picture of the entire journey.

1. Recognize that a hearing problem may exist.

The first step in solving any problem is to identify that a problem does actually exist. The same is true for hearing loss. Have you been asking your partner or family members to repeat themselves? Do you turn up the TV volume louder than what others find comfortable? Are you experiencing difficulty understanding conversations, especially in group settings or in areas with lots of background noise? These could all be potential symptoms of hearing loss.

2. Have your hearing evaluated by a hearing healthcare professional.

Now that you think you have hearing loss, let’s find out for sure. Schedule an appointment with your local audiologist for a hearing test and thorough hearing evaluation.

At Advanced Hearing Group, we do complete hearing tests to determine the type and severity of hearing loss. But, our evaluation doesn’t stop there. If hearing loss IS detected, we do other diagnostic testing to rule out other factors that could potentially be resolved by surgery, medication, or other forms of treatment. We often refer clients to an Ear, Nose, and Throat (ENT) doctor if conditions are present that could potentially be treated by means other than hearing aids.

3. Find the best hearing aids … IF they’re needed.

Once other factors have been ruled out and diagnostic testing has revealed the need for hearing loss treatment, your audiologist may prescribe hearing aids as part of the solution. But, not just any set of hearing aids will do.

At Advanced Hearing Group, our audiologists want to help you find the BEST hearing aids for YOU. Modern hearing aid technology varies widely with some models being very simple and others offering a plethora of helpful features. Ultimately, the best hearing aids are the ones that you have chosen based on your specific type and severity of hearing loss, your budget, and your lifestyle. Even the most advanced hearing aids won’t help if you don’t wear them or don’t use all of their features.

4. Have your hearing aids adjusted to YOUR hearing levels and start the acclimation process.

When you first start wearing hearing aids, it will take time for your brain to become accustomed to all of the new auditory stimuli. With hearing aids prescribed by an audiologist, your devices may initially be set lower than you need them to be. With use, your brain will begin to get used to hearing again and the hearing aids will need to be adjusted again.

This acclimation process is often easier for those who wear their hearing aids full-time. The process takes much longer for individuals who only wear them part of the day.

5. Get annual or routine hearing aid adjustments as needed.

As we mentioned earlier, hearing loss treatment is a journey. Since your hearing levels will change as you age, there will be a need for periodic hearing aid adjustments. While hearing loss treatment does help you to hear better, the number one goal of hearing loss treatment is to help prevent cognitive decline. That means routinely adjusting your hearing aids so they are able to continually provide your brain with the auditory stimuli it needs to stay active and healthy.

Hearing Aids Prescribed by an Audiologist vs. OTC Hearing Aids

Now that you know how hearing aids are prescribed by an audiologist and what that hearing loss journey looks like, let’s take a closer look at OTC hearing aids.

First, it’s important to note that the ultimate goal of over-the-counter hearing aids is to make hearing loss treatment more accessible, especially for those who won’t go to a hearing clinic or can’t afford to do so. As such, these devices are intended only for individuals with mild to moderate hearing loss.

Your Hearing Loss Journey With OTC Hearing Aids

Now, let’s look at the hearing loss journey with OTC hearing aids vs. those prescribed by an audiologist. The first step is the same – identify that there is a possible problem. But, that’s where the similarity ends.

With OTC hearing aids, YOU decide whether or not you need hearing aids. And, your decision may not necessarily be based upon a hearing test or thorough hearing evaluation. You can simply head to your local pharmacy or similar retail establishment and pick up a set of over-the-counter hearing aids.

Once you buy the devices, you must adjust them to your hearing levels by yourself. Fortunately, there are step-by-step directions that will help you do so. To learn more about what OTC hearing aids look like and how they function, watch this video:

Similar to buying a pair of nonprescription reading glasses, the purchase of OTC hearing aids is a one-time event. While you can make minor adjustments to how well the devices work, there is no hearing professional to help you with hearing aid maintenance, hearing aid repairs, or routine adjustments to help you hear better.

Hearing Loss Treatment in Mesa and Scottsdale, AZ

The bottom line is that YOU get to decide which hearing loss treatment journey you take … hearing aids prescribed by an audiologist or OTC hearing aids. Consider the long-term advantages of working with a hearing healthcare professional. We sincerely hope that you will take the journey with us, not alone.

To get started on the path to hearing better and preventing cognitive decline, schedule an appointment with our Mesa or Scottsdale audiologists today. We’re here to help you effectively manage your hearing loss journey so you can hear well and live well.

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Do Hearing Aids Affect Your Real Hearing?

Posted on May 30, 2023 by admin
Do hearing aids affect your REAL hearing?

One of the questions our audiologists sometimes get at our Mesa and Scottsdale hearing clinics is this: “Do hearing aids affect your REAL hearing?”

It’s a valid question, and the answer may surprise you. But first, let’s talk a little bit about the purpose of hearing aids and how they work.

How do hearing aids help you hear better?

You probably already know that hearing aids are small electronic devices that are specifically designed to improve hearing, hence the name! In simple terms, they work by making sounds louder and delivering them to the ear. This enables people with hearing loss to detect sounds they might not otherwise be able to hear.

There are 5 key components that work together to make hearing aids help you hear better:

  1. Microphone – The microphone inside the hearing aid picks up sounds from the environment and converts them into electrical signals.
  1. Amplifier – The electrical signals are then sent to an amplifier. Here, the strength of the signals is increased and the volume is adjusted based on a user’s specific hearing needs.
  1. Receiver – The amplified signals are transmitted to a receiver which converts them back into acoustic signals.
  1. Earpiece – Then, the acoustic signals travel to the user’s ear through a small earpiece or speaker. This piece can be positioned behind the ear, such as in Behind-the-Ear (BTE) Hearing Aids, or within the ear, such as with In-the-Canal (ITC) Hearing Aids. Both types work well but BTE hearing aids are more visible and ITC hearing aids are more discreet.
  1. Customized Settings – Modern hearing aids typically come with various features and settings that can be personalized to meet the wearer’s specific hearing needs. These settings may include adjustments for different listening environments or noise reduction, among other things.

By amplifying and processing sounds, hearing aids can help people with hearing loss hear more clearly and effectively. This can then lead to improved speech comprehension, increased auditory awareness, and easier engagement in everyday activities such as conversation.

How do hearing aids affect your real hearing?

Now, let’s look at the question we first started out with … DO hearing aids affect your real hearing? The short answer is … YES, but maybe not in the way that you think.

First, hearing aids affect your real hearing in a positive way. That is, as long as you’re using the right type of hearing aids for your specific type of hearing loss. And, as long as those hearing aids have been correctly fitted to your ears and adjusted properly.

When you use the best hearing aids for YOU, and when they’ve been fitted properly by a hearing professional such as an audiologist, your real hearing benefits. Your natural hearing may stay sharper for longer and the natural hearing loss that happens with age may be slowed.

Hearing aids may impact how you view your real hearing.

Now, do hearing aids affect your real hearing in a negative way? No! However, they COULD make you become more aware of the severity of your hearing loss.

Many people wait years before they seek hearing loss treatment. That’s because their hearing declines gradually over time and they often don’t know how poor it is until they schedule a hearing test.

Once you start wearing hearing aids, you go through an adjustment process. During this time, the brain re-learns how to process sounds that it hasn’t been exposed to in quite a while.

After you’ve adjusted to wearing hearing aids and become accustomed to hearing better, it may sound strangely quiet when you take your hearing aids out at bedtime or before you go for a swim. This could lead you to believe that wearing hearing aids has caused your natural hearing to decline further, but this is not the case. Rather, your brain has simply become used to hearing well!

Hearing Aid Fittings and Hearing Loss Treatment in Mesa and Scottsdale, AZ

It’s important to note that hearing aids are not a cure for hearing loss. However, they can significantly improve an individual’s ability to hear and communicate in various situations.

Thanks to recent legislation, self-fitting, over-the-counter (OTC) hearing aids are now available at many pharmacies and other retail establishments. For the ultimate hearing experience, however, we recommend hearing aids that are selected, fitted, and adjusted by a hearing health professional. That way, you’ll have hearing aids specifically designed to meet your unique hearing needs, lifestyle factors, and budget requirements.

To find out if you have hearing loss, schedule an appointment with one of our audiologists today. We offer hearing tests, hearing aid fittings, and a variety of other hearing healthcare services at our offices located in Mesa and Scottsdale, AZ.

You DON’T have to continue living with untreated hearing loss. Make the choice to invest in your hearing health today so you can hear well and live well!

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Could Anemia Cause Hearing Loss?

Posted on April 27, 2023 by admin
Link between anemia and hearing loss

As medical professionals continue to investigate the connection between hearing loss and other health conditions, the link between anemia and hearing loss comes up again and again. While the topic has been studied for over 20 years, additional research is still needed to fully define the relationship between anemia and hearing loss.

Today, we’ll walk you through what anemia is, how it’s treated, and what types of anemia are most common. Then, we’ll take a closer look at what’s known so far about the anemia-hearing loss connection.

What Is Anemia and How Is It Treated?

In the human body, red blood cells are responsible for carrying oxygen throughout the body to various systems and tissues. Anemia is a medical condition characterized by a deficiency of healthy red blood cells. Without enough of these important oxygen carriers, some body tissues suffer from insufficient oxygen supplies. This results in an anemic individual feeling weak or fatigued.

The treatment for anemia depends on the cause and can include anything from dietary supplements to medical procedures. Maintaining a balanced and healthy diet may also help prevent some types of anemia.

Types of Anemia

Anemia can take different forms and have varying causes, and may either be temporary or chronic. Often, there are multiple causes of anemia. Among the most common types of anemia are:

  • Aplastic anemia
  • Iron deficiency anemia
  • Sickle cell anemia
  • Vitamin deficiency anemia

If you suspect that you have anemia, it is advisable to see a doctor as it could indicate a more severe underlying illness. Furthermore, it’s important to work closely with a medical professional to determine which type of anemia you have and the appropriate way in which it should be treated. For some types, such as sickle cell anemia, you could actually cause more harm than good by attempting to treat it yourself with an iron supplement.

Anemia and Hearing Loss: What’s the Connection?

Now that you know what anemia is, how it’s treated, and what types are most common, let’s look at the link between anemia and hearing loss. How exactly are they related?

First, it’s important to understand that recent research has not proven that anemia causes hearing loss. But study after study has shown that the two conditions are connected. This is most likely due to the fact that the inner ear relies on a sufficient blood supply that is rich with oxygen in order to have healthy hearing. When the blood or oxygen supply is interrupted for any reason, hearing can suffer.

This connection is perhaps most visible in individuals with iron deficiency anemia. Without enough iron to carry oxygen from the lungs, through the blood, and into the inner ear, hearing loss occurs. For some, taking an iron supplement or making a concentrated effort to get more iron in their daily diet is enough to treat the anemia and reduce the risk of hearing loss.

Treatment of Anemia Could Prevent Hearing Loss

The bottom line is that both current and past research has shown a link between anemia and hearing loss. However, further research needs to be done in order to prove a causal relationship between the two conditions.

In the meantime, some research suggests that successful treatment of anemia could result in the prevention of hearing loss. Taking iron supplements or otherwise attempting to treat anemia should only be done under the supervision of your doctor, however. If you suspect you have anemia or are concerned about it, ask your doctor for a blood test that will prove the presence or absence of the condition. Then, based on the results, your doctor can work closely with you to determine an effective treatment plan if needed.

Hearing Loss Evaluation and Treatment in Mesa and Scottsdale, AZ

At Advanced Hearing Group, our mission is to help people hear well so they can live well. Our audiology offices in Mesa and Scottsdale serve clients from all over Mesa, Scottsdale, Gilbert, Chandler, Tempe, Queen Creek, and throughout the metro Phoenix area.

Whether you’re concerned about anemia and hearing loss or have noticed hearing changes due to another cause, we encourage you to schedule an appointment with us today. Our expert audiologists can perform a hearing test and thorough hearing evaluation to determine whether you do, in fact, have hearing loss. Then, we’ll work closely with you to create the best treatment plan based on your specific hearing needs.

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What to Expect During a Newborn Hearing Screening

Posted on April 24, 2023 by admin
Newborn hearing screening

Did you know that infants undergo a newborn hearing screening before they even leave the hospital? That’s right … along with all the other tests and procedures that are done on babies, testing for hearing loss happens before you even get to bring them home.

If you think it’s strange that newborns need their hearing tested so early in life, we’re here to set the record straight. A newborn hearing screening isn’t just a test doctors do for curiosity’s sake. It’s actually vital for your child’s hearing health and overall development.

Why is newborn hearing screening necessary?

Most babies are born looking absolutely perfect. Those tiny toes, cute little fingers, and soft coos make it easy to love a newborn at first sight. But while everything may look just great on the outside, it’s not uncommon for there to be problems on the inside that simply aren’t visible to the naked eye. And, while it may be difficult to think about your new baby having any problems whatsoever, it’s better to know about them if there are any internal issues.

A newborn hearing screening is exactly what it sounds like – a test that screens for hearing loss in infants. The reason why this test is so important is because hearing affects speech and language development as well as educational development as a child grows. When hearing loss is identified and treated early on, children with hearing loss can get earlier access to sound which can help them develop normally.

How are babies tested for hearing loss?

A newborn hearing screening is typically performed in one of two ways:

  1. Otoacoustic Emissions (OAE) Testing – This test measures the inner ear’s response to sound. A tiny probe is inserted into the infant’s ear. Clicks or tones are played and the probe measures how well the inner ear responds to them. Since no response is required by the person being tested, OAE testing can also be used with older people who have behavioral or communications disorders which would prevent them from being able to undergo a standard hearing test.
  1. Auditory Brainstem Response (ABR) – This test measures brain wave activity in response to sound. Since ABR testing does not require any response from the patient, it can even be done while they are sleeping. In fact, for a newborn hearing screening, many practitioners actually prefer the baby to be asleep since they’ll be quieter, less active, and higher quality results can be obtained from the test.

Watch this video to learn more about how a newborn hearing test is done and why it’s so important:

What to expect after a newborn hearing screening

Of course, the best result of an infant hearing test is a ‘pass’. While this doesn’t preclude the baby from developing hearing loss later in childhood, it’s at least a good indication that hearing is healthy at the present time.

If your child receives a ‘fail’ from a newborn hearing test, it’s important to remain calm and follow through with recommendations from your hearing healthcare provider. It’s not uncommon for babies to fail the first test but pass a subsequent one done at a later date. This could happen because of fluid in the ear canal or middle ear right after birth.

If your baby fails a second test, it’s likely that hearing loss treatment will be recommended. When hearing loss is identified and treated early, there are steps that can be taken to help ensure normal development of your child’s speech and language.

Whether your baby has failed a newborn hearing screening or you’ve started to notice hearing changes in an older child, we are here to help. The audiologists at Advanced Hearing Group are skilled at testing and treating hearing loss at all ages and our goal is to help enhance everyday living through sound.

Simply schedule an appointment with us today to discuss your concerns and work with us to determine the best course of action for ultimate hearing health.

Learn More about Advanced Hearing Group
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6 Helpful Tips For Living With Single-Sided Deafness

Posted on March 24, 2023 by admin
6 Helpful Tips For Living With Single-Sided Deafness

Single-sided deafness (SSD) is a condition marked by profound hearing loss in just one ear. When the loss is one-sided but more mild to moderate in nature, the condition is typically referred to as unilateral hearing loss. As you might expect, experiencing either of these hearing disorders can have a significant impact on daily living. Furthermore, both children and adults can be affected.

What Causes Single-Sided Deafness?

Sometimes, children are born with SSD. Other times, the condition happens gradually over time. There are also many cases of single-sided deafness that happen suddenly – over the course of a few days or even less.

Common causes of unilateral hearing loss or SSD include:

  • Use of ototoxic medications
  • Tumors
  • Infections
  • Diseases such as Lyme or Meniere’s Disease
  • Head trauma
  • … And more

When the onset of single-sided deafness is sudden, it’s important to seek help right away. That’s because some of the causes of SSD are actually treatable. When addressed early enough by an expert hearing professional, hearing loss can sometimes be reversed. If left untreated, however, the damage can be permanent.

How to Deal With Single-Sided Deafness in Everyday Life

For those who have a permanent case of SSD, it’s important to learn how to effectively cope with the condition. Follow these tips to live life to the fullest, even with unilateral hearing loss.

1. Be open with others about your single-sided deafness.

The truth is, most people want to help but they can’t if they don’t know what you’re dealing with. Don’t be afraid to tell friends, family members, co-workers, and even strangers that you have a deaf ear. Once they know about your condition, it’ll be much easier to avoid awkward situations that could arise if they don’t know.

2. Talk freely about how others can help you cope.

Many people living with single-sided deafness have found ways to adapt to their hearing loss. They automatically sit where others can face their ‘good’ ear. Or, they position themselves in front of a speaker so it’s easier to read lips. Share these adaptations with others and be up front about what they can do to help you. Most people are more than willing to speak clearly, sit or stand on your ‘good’ side, or do whatever it takes to help you hear better. They simply need to know what’s required of them.

3. Use body language to remind others of your single-sided deafness.

Many people won’t know you have SSD simply by looking at you. And even if they do know, it’s easy to forget unless they’re around you every single day. Simple non-verbal cues, like cupping your ear or leaning into a conversation, can help them remember and act accordingly.

4. Learn to accept your single-sided deafness.

If you haven’t fully come to terms with your unilateral hearing loss yourself, it can make it uncomfortable for those around you. On the other hand, they’ll be more at ease if you’ve accepted your condition and are open about it. Sometimes even embracing a little humor can break down barriers and make the situation easier for everyone involved.

5. Practice good communication skills.

Conversations can be awkward if you’re constantly interrupting others to get them to repeat what they’ve said. Instead, try to understand what you can and only interrupt when it’s absolutely necessary. It can also be very helpful to ask for a pause in the conversation so you can relay to the other party what you think you’ve heard. You’ll be able to check your understanding and they’ll have a reminder of what’s needed to communicate clearly with you.

6. Get appropriate hearing loss treatment.

Whether your single-sided deafness happens suddenly or gradually over time, it’s important to work closely with an audiologist or other hearing professional to get the care you need and deserve. If your hearing loss is permanent, there may be hearing aids that can help you hear better, even if they don’t return your hearing to normal levels.

Expert Hearing Health Services in Mesa and Scottsdale, AZ

At Advanced Hearing Group, we’re committed to helping people hear better so they can enjoy life to the fullest. That’s why we offer a variety of hearing-related services at Mesa and Scottsdale offices. Simply schedule an appointment with one of our audiologists today. We’ll conduct a thorough hearing evaluation, make recommendations for appropriate treatment, and get you on the road to hearing better as soon as possible!

Learn More about Advanced Hearing Group
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4 Hearing Aid Trends for 2023 and Beyond

Posted on February 2, 2023 by admin
Hearing Aid Trends

As 2022 fades into our rear view mirror and we head deeper into 2023, it’s time to look at hearing aid trends that could affect you or a loved one if you have hearing loss. Today, we’re going to take you through 4 major trends we expect to see throughout this year and perhaps even beyond.

Watch for These Hearing Aid Trends in 2023

1. Increased Talk About and Usage of Over-the-Counter (OTC) Hearing Aids

In 2017, Congress passed bipartisan legislation that gave the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) license to create a category of over-the-counter hearing aids. Due to delays caused by the pandemic, it wasn’t until the summer of 2022 that the FDA’s rules regarding use and sale of OTC hearing aids were announced. Then, over-the-counter hearing aids began to hit retail store shelves in October of 2022. Hearing aid trends for 2023 point to OTC hearing aids becoming more popular, at least initially.

Pros of OTC hearing aids:

  • These devices, including the new Sony CRE-C10 self-fitting OTC hearing aids, are readily available to most consumers. No prescription or hearing test is required in order to purchase them so the prevailing thought is that hearing loss treatment is more accessible.
  • OTC hearing aids are priced around $700-$1,400 per set. That makes them significantly cheaper up front than prescription hearing aids that typically cost several thousands of dollars.

Cons of OTC hearing aids:

  • Current over-the-counter hearing aids are only designed for perceived mild to moderate hearing loss.
  • Most people underestimate how great their hearing loss actually is. Without a hearing test, they may purchase OTC devices only to find that they don’t actually help them hear better.
  • Some OTC hearing aids only have a manufacturer warranty of 1 year. Therefore, patients may find themselves having to purchase another set within 1-2 years and actually spending more money than if they had gone with prescription hearing aids.

As the use of OTC hearing aids increases and their novelty wears off, time will tell whether or not these devices will help hearing loss treatment as much as lawmakers have hoped.

2. More Third Party Administration (TPA) for Hearing Aid Coverage

Insurance coverage for hearing aids has long been a hot topic, especially for individuals with Medicare. While federal Medicare does not cover the cost of hearing aids, it does cover diagnostic hearing testing every year.

Third parties such as TruHearing, Hearing Care Solutions, and United Healthcare Hearing, however, are offering at least partial coverage for hearing aids. Some of these entities will provide actual money toward hearing aid copays. Others offer hearing aids at a discounted price. It’s worth noting, however, that these so-called discounts often limit which hearing aids are covered and what types of related services are covered as well.

The bottom line is that you need to become as familiar as possible with your insurance benefits if you have hearing loss. First, ask your hearing healthcare provider if they accept your health insurance plan. Then, verify your benefits. Don’t be afraid to ask  your audiologist to explain some of those benefits to you, especially if you don’t understand the coverage or potential discounts available.

3. A Variety of Business Models to Help Consumers Pay for Hearing Aids and Related Services

The cost of hearing aids has long been a factor that significantly impacts how and when patients can afford to purchase devices to improve their hearing. Hearing aids trends for 2023 point to hearing healthcare providers offering more payment options in an effort to increase hearing aid affordability and usability.

Here are the most common ways to pay for hearing aids:

1. Bundled service package

A bundled service package includes the cost of the hearing aids themselves along with cleaning, adjustments, and other services for the devices’ lifetime.

Pros of a bundled hearing aid service package:

  • Costs are paid up front so there are fewer bills (if any) incurred during the life of the device.
  • Patients are less likely to delay necessary adjustments or maintenance since they won’t have to pay extra for scheduling service.
  • Even though the cost of a bundled plan is more up front, patients that keep their devices for several years often end up saving money in the long term.

Cons of a bundled hearing aid service package:

  • Patients must pay a larger expense up front instead of budgeting the cost out over several months or years.
  • There may be additional costs incurred if the hearing aids need to be returned to the manufacturer for repairs after the manufacturer’s warranty has expired.

2. Limited time service

Some hearing aid providers offer services based strictly on the manufacturer’s warranty period. For example, if the manufacturer has a warranty for one year, services such as hearing aid cleaning and adjustments may be covered only during this period.

This may be sufficient for hearing aid users who change out their devices frequently or every couple of years. For those who really love their hearing aids and want to keep them for the device’s full lifetime, they may risk not having some services covered with this type of plan.

3. Unbundled hearing aid service

Some hearing health providers offer hearing aid purchase and maintenance a la carte, meaning that the cost for each is handled and paid separately.

Pros of unbundled hearing aid service:

  • Patients save money up front because they are not pre-paying for service.
  • Costs for hearing aid services are spread out.
  • Long time hearing aid users may save money if they already know how to handle some common hearing aid problems themselves.
  • Hearing aid wearers who frequently travel or have multiple homes have the freedom to go to multiple providers for service.

Cons of unbundled hearing aid service:

  • New hearing aid users need to be seen more frequently in the early stages of hearing aid use. They may not save money and may even spend more than they would with a bundled service plan.
  • Individuals who are not tech savvy may not be able to figure out hearing aid problems on their own. They may delay necessary service in an effort to save money but their hearing could suffer.

4. Leasing hearing aids

While this option has been around for a while, it’s one of the hearing aid trends that we expect to see increase in popularity this year. Hearing aid leasing is just what it sounds like – making monthly payments over a set time period to pay for hearing aids. At the end of the lease term (typically 3-4 years), patients have the choice of buying out the lease or trading the devices in for a newer model.

Pros of leasing hearing aids:

  • Patients do not have to come up with a large sum of money up front in order to start using hearing aids.
  • Monthly payments may be easier for individuals with a set income (such as retirees) or those who prefer the predictability of the monthly cost.
  • This is a great option for people who like to trade in their hearing aids frequently in order to have the latest and greatest technology.

Cons of leasing hearing aids:

  • Depending on how long the lease term is, the manufacturer’s loss and damage warranty may run out before the lease is up.
  • Similar to leasing a car, this option costs more money over the long term.

4. Increased Popularity of Extended Wear Hearing Aids

Most hearing aid wearers are used to putting their devices in their ears at the beginning of the day and then removing them at bedtime. One of the hearing aid trends we see increasing for 2023, however, is the use of extended wear hearing aids such as the FDA-approved Lyric devices.

Implanted in the ear canal, these hearing aids stay in all the time – while you’re sleeping, showering, etc. They are implanted by a qualified professional and then changed out approximately every two months.

Pros of extended wear hearing aids:

  • These devices are a great option for people who are concerned about the look of hearing aids as they are very small and hidden within the ear canal.
  • Since they don’t have to be removed multiple times daily, individuals with fine motor challenges may find extended wear hearing aids helpful.

Cons of extended wear hearing aids:

  • This is not the most cost effective hearing loss treatment method.
  • These devices do not come with Bluetooth or ear to ear communication capabilities.

Looking At Current Hearing Aid Trends and Beyond

The bottom line is that many of the hearing aid options mentioned above have been available to consumers for quite some time. We expect to see each of these hearing aid trends to increase in 2023, however, along with an increased focus on giving patients more control over their hearing healthcare.

At Advanced Hearing Group, our mission is to provide a wide variety of top quality hearing healthcare services so that individuals with hearing loss can hear better and live life to the fullest. From custom hearing protection and high quality hearing aids to hearing tests, professional earwax removal, and more, we invite you to schedule an appointment at our Mesa or Scottsdale locations to learn more today!

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