Risk Of Permanent Hearing Loss With Audio Devices Set At Unsafe High Volumes

The World Health Organization has recently released alarming statistics which have brought to light the troubling fact of how many individuals are at the risk of suffering from hearing loss, simply because of “unsafe recreational noises”. The news was released to the press, as a move to share the shocking statistical result that was discovered by the organization.   

WHO Statistics – A Troubling Announcement

Around 1.1 billion people are at a risk of suffering from hearing impairments or hearing loss, due to the use of different audio devices at dangerously high levels. (World Health Organization WHO, 2015)

The report states that 1.1 billion of the population; which is at a risk of suffering from severe hearing loss, consists mainly of young adults and teenagers. The use of personal audio devices along with other noisy recreational activities at entertainment venues like bars, night clubs, and different sporting events, has been estimated to have a profound impact on the hearing abilities of youngsters, which might even lead to a permanent hearing loss in some. (World Health Organization WHO, 2015)

Personal Audio Devices – Fun At The Risk Of Permanent Hearing Loss

Personal audio devices are small hardware items which enable teenagers and young adults to listen to music and videos anywhere they want. Smart phones, cell phones, MP3 players, portable audio DVD players and iPods, are majorly used by the youth to listen to their favorite music and enjoy videos at dangerously high sound levels.

However, exposure to dangerously high levels of noisy entertainment is now being considered as a major reason for possible permanent hearing loss in a major section of the world population.

Age Groups At A Risk Of Hearing Loss

Research studies conducted at different high and middle income countries, presented results, which highlighted a specific age group, which was at a higher risk of suffering from permanent hearing loss.

The teenagers and young adults from these countries, who belonged to the age bracket of 12 to 30 years, were noted to be at a high risk. The high sound levels in audio devices are being seen as the primary reason for the high risk. 50% of the young target bracket is exposed to dangerously high sounds, while around 40% are exposed to sound levels which can be potentially damaging.

The sound levels which have be

en attributed to be unsafe for hearing are the ones which exceed 85 decibels for a time period of 8 hours or of 100 decibels for just 15 minutes. (World Health Organization WHO, 2015)

Global Region Statistics

The hearing loss is distributed on a global scale, with South Asia heading the count with 27% of the total world cases. Meanwhile, East Asia has a reported share of 22%, while Asia Pacific has 10% and Latin America and the Caribbean having 9% reported disabled hearing loss cases in the world. (World Health Organization WHO, 2012). Along with a number of other reasons, exposure to noisy sounds is a contributive factor to these global statistics.   

The reason for this high count in middle and high income countries is attributed to the dangerous use of audio devices and constant exposure to harsh sounds in the surroundings.    

Reasons For Increase Of Risk

The high sound levels which exceed the safety limits as defined by audiologists, doctors and WHO and other welfare organizations, are a major reason for the increased risk of permanent hearing loss in teenagers and young adults. 

Unsafe headphones and earplugs which do not offer complete protection from the dangerously high sound frequencies are another risk factor. Low volumes on audio devices, and the use of proper earplugs, which reduce or cancel out the sounds from noisy surroundings, are ways to minimize the risk of permanent hearing loss in the youth of today.    

Limiting the time spent in noisy surroundings engaged in different noisy activities, and reducing the time spent listening to personal audio devices to one hour a day, can also further help to reduce the risk of hearing loss in young adults and teenagers.       

 This article is written by: Dr. Lori Trentacoste, head audiologist at Island Better Hearing (www.islandbetterhearing.com)  All images and content in this article are the sole property of the LIAHP and Dr. Trentacoste (c) 2015, All rights reserved whereby use of this article and/or other written projects in this blogsite must be done with express permission from Dr. Lori Trentacoste.

References

World Health Organization WHO. (2015). 1.1 Billion People at Risk of Hearing Loss. World Health Organization WHO. http://www.who.int/mediacentre/news/releases/2015/ear-care/en/

World Health Organization WHO. (2012). WHO Global Estimates on Prevalence of Hearing Loss. WHO . http://www.who.int/pbd/deafness/WHO_GE_HL.pdf

People With Untreated Hearing Loss May Be At An Increased Risk Of Depression

Depression is a disorder which affects around 350 million people on a global scale, according to the World Health Organization WHO. This mental condition is one of the leading causes of disability in the world, and is now being seen as a major contributor to the overall global burden of the disease. (World Health Organization WHO , 2012)

This condition is different from regular mood fluctuations and has the tendency to become a serious health condition if it becomes severe. There are a number of reasons which contribute to the development of depression in an individual, and hearing loss is considered to be one of the contributing factors.

Hearing Loss And Depression- The Connection

According to the statistics submitted by the National Institute on Deafness and Other Communication Disorders NIDCD, around 36 million Americans have been reported to suffer from hearing loss. This comprises around 17% of the adult population of the country, which is an alarming statistic in itself. 

Hearing loss is attributed to being the third chronic health condition most prevalent in older adults. But statistics show that only 20% of the individuals, who can benefit from the treatment, actually opt for medical help. (American Speech-Language-Hearing Association (ASHA))

Suffering from hearing loss is an individual experience, and every person responds differently to the condition. Many individuals suffering from hearing loss are known to experience conditions like depression, anxiety, frustration, and social isolation. (American Speech-Language-Hearing Association (ASHA)). The stress of dealing with the hearing loss, results in depression which might be moderate or severe.  

Tinnitus is another type of hearing impairment which causes ringing in the ears or sounds in the head, which cause great discomfort and result in depression in an individual. The inability to comprehend and differentiate the surrounding sounds, proves to be too much stress for many, and is a causative reason for depression.

Survey Study

A study conducted by the National Council on Aging concluded the impact of untreated hearing loss on individuals. The survey was conducted on a sample population of 4000 adults, with hearing loss and without. The survey results showed significantly high rates of anxiety and depression in sample individuals who suffered from hearing loss, but did not wear any hearing aids. Other psychological disorders were also observed in such individuals. (Kochkin & Rogin, 2000)

Views Of Experts

The study proved to be a breakthrough and provided evidence to the fact that untreated hearing loss can and does lead to dangerous problems in aging individuals. James Firman, a PhD, shared his views on the results of this great study and said, “The study actually debunks the myth that the untreated hearing loss in older persons is a harmless condition.” (Kochkin & Rogin, 2000)

In light of this study, Bridges and Bentler have shared their views on promoting the use of hearing aids for the effective and timely treatment of hearing loss conditions. They said, “It is up to the hearing community to demonstrate that the hearing aids are necessary, not only for the improved communication, but also for the enhanced sense of well being.” (Kochkin & Rogin, 2000), (A.Bridges & Bentler, 1998)

Hearing loss needs to be treated on a priority basis to ensure protection from symptoms of depression. 

 This article is written by: Dr. Lori Trentacoste, head audiologist at Island Better Hearing (www.islandbetterhearing.com)  All images and content in this article are the sole property of the LIAHP and Dr. Trentacoste (c) 2015, All rights reserved whereby use of this article or any content references from this article and/or other written products in this blogsite must be done with express permission from Dr. Lori Trentacoste.

References

A.Bridges, J., & Bentler, R. A. (1998). Relating Hearing Aid Use to Well being among Older Adults. The Hearing Journal. http://journals.lww.com/thehearingjournal/Citation/1998/07000/Relating_hearing_aid_use_to_well_being_among_older.2.aspx

American Speech-Language-Hearing Association (ASHA). (n.d.). Untreated Hearing Loss in Adults- A Growing National Epidemic . Retrieved April 2015, from American Speech-Language-Hearing Association (ASHA): http://www.asha.org/Aud/Articles/Untreated-Hearing-Loss-in-Adults/

Kochkin, S., & Rogin, C. M. (2000). Quantifying the Obvious:The Impact of Hearing Instruments on Quality of Life. Better Hearing and Speech Council . http://bhscouncil.org/hia/publications/MR40.PDF

World Health Organization WHO . (2012, October). Depression. Retrieved April 2015, from World Health Organization WHO: http://www.who.int/mediacentre/factsheets/fs369/en/

People With Moderate Chronic Kidney Disease Have A Higher Prevalence Of Hearing Loss

Around 360 million people worldwide suffer from a disabling hearing loss, which has a number of causative reasons. (WHO, 2015). Along with a bunch of other reasons, chronic kidney disease is also considered to impact the hearing abilities of an individual.

Chronic Kidney Disease And Hearing Loss- Study Details

One of the recent studies has surveyed the probable impact on hearing of chronic kidney disease patients. The study revealed that there was a major impact on the hearing abilities of individuals who suffered from a chronic kidney condition. 

Adults, who suffer from a chronic kidney disease, were found to suffer from hearing loss disabilities on a larger scale, compared to other individuals who did not suffer from the same chronic condition. (National KIdney Foundation). This piece of news was shared in a report that was shared in the American Journal of Kidney Diseases, which is the official medical journal published by the American Kidney Foundation.   

The study was a team of Australian experts, who surveyed and analyzed the details of around 2,900 individuals, who were aged 50 and above. (HearAgain.org, 2011). This sample size also included 513 individuals who suffered from a moderately chronic kidney disease condition. This condition’s symptoms involve the kidney function with a glomerular filtration rate measure that is found to be below 60. 

In the study, around 54% of the documented chronic kidney disease patients were found to have reported some level or degree of hearing loss at some time. This was a stark contrast to the 28% reported hearing loss cases observed in individuals who did not suffer from the chronic disease.

The study results revealed that around 30% of the total chronic kidney disease patients under study, displayed signs of suffering from severe hearing loss. This is a major contrast to a small statistical percentage of 10% which was observed in the non chronic kidney disease patients. (National KIdney Foundation). 

The author of the study, Professor David Harris, who is the Associate Dean of Sydney Medical School, in the University of Sydney, shared his professional views on the results of the study and said, “Hearing loss is linked to the syndromal kidney disease, while this study in particular suggests and gives evidence for a strong tie to chronic kidney disease.” 

Dr. Kerry Willis, who is the Senior Vice President at the National Kidney Foundation, for the Scientific Activities department, said that the study offers opportunities for modified care of people suffering chronic kidney disease symptoms. He shared the view that by opting for early clinical assessments and fitting the patients for hearing aids, the quality of life can be improved for chronic kidney disease patients. In his view, it would surely result in improving the management of different underlying conditions, which would serve to preserve the hearing ability and function of such patients.

Kidney Disease Affecting Hearing Loss- The Reason

The link between the hearing loss and chronic kidney disease is explained by scientists with the similar functional and structural tissues present in the kidney and in the inner ear. Furthermore, it has been estimated that the toxins which tend to accumulate as a result of kidney failure, can have a damaging impact on nerves, which also include those in the inner ear. 

One other reason for the high prevalence of hearing loss in kidney disease patients is that both conditions share the same risk factors, which include high blood pressure, old age and diabetes. 

By recognizing the effect on hearing functions of chronic kidney disease patients, effective measures can be adopted for timely management and handling of the issue.   

 This article is written by: Dr. Lori Trentacoste, head audiologist at Island Better Hearing (www.islandbetterhearing.com)  All images and content in this article are the sole property of the LIAHP and Dr. Trentacoste (c) 2015, All rights reserved whereby use of this article and/or other written projects in this blogsite must be done with express permission from Dr. Lori Trentacoste.

References

HearAgain.org. (2011, April). Hearing Loss Linked to Chronic Kidney Disease. Retrieved April 2015, from HearAgain.org: http://hearagain.org/2011/04/hearing-loss-linked-to-chronic-kidney-disease/

National KIdney Foundation. (n.d.). Hearing Loss Linked to Moderate Chronic Kidney Disease. Retrieved April 2015, from National Kidney Foundation: https://www.kidney.org/news/ekidney/november10/HearingLoss_November10

WHO. (2015, March). Deafness and Hearing Loss. Retrieved April 2015, from World Health Organization (WHO): http://www.who.int/mediacentre/factsheets/fs300/en/

     

Older People With Hearing Loss Have High Probability Of Developing Dementia With Time

A recent study has revealed a high tendency for senior citizens to develop symptoms of dementia, especially in those, who already suffer from hearing loss disabilities. 

Around 360 million Americans suffer from this disability and there has been an observed trend, which has linked hearing loss to old age. Statistics show that around 2% of the adults, who are aged between 45 to 54 years, suffer from hearing disabilities, while this rate is estimated to increase to 8.5% for older people aged between 55 to 64 years. Adults aged 65 to 74 years exhibit 25% cases of reported hearing loss, while 50% of the adults aged 75 and older; actually suffer from disabling hearing loss. (National Institute on Deafness and Other Comunications Disorders (NIDCD) ).

Study Facts And Details

A study conducted in collaboration by the John Hopkins Institute and the National Institute on Aging, reveals a link, between the growing probability of dementia in old individuals, to those who already suffer from a hearing disability. 

The study presents results which suggest that there is a higher probability of older individuals suffering from dementia if they already have a history of hearing disability, in comparison with the survey candidates, who did not suffer from any hearing loss.(John Hopkins Medicine, 2011)

The study results are expected to initiate new and effective ways to fight against dementia; a condition which affects several individuals on a global scale annually. Dr. Frank Lin has shared his views on the results of the study and decreed that the recent research is the next step, as it explores how the cognitive efficiency of an individual is likely to suffer, due to hearing loss. This is because, most former research studies only explored the factors which caused hearing loss without studying its effects on the functioning of the human body. (John Hopkins Medicine, 2011)

The study was conducted on a sample group of 639 people, who had all been tested for their hearing as well as cognitive abilities, in the Baltimore Longitudinal Study on Aging. A quarter of the research study participants were known to suffer from hearing loss at the start of the research testing procedure, but none had dementia. Then each volunteer was observed throughout a period of two years, and it was observed that in a couple of years’ time, 58 of them had developed symptoms of dementia. The observation also included 37 of them, who had Alzheimer’s disease. The research study participants were also found to be more likely to exhibit signs of dementia towards the end of the study procedure. (The Hearing Journal)

In comparison to the volunteers who did not suffer from hearing loss, older individuals who suffered from mild, moderate to severe hearing loss, had a higher possibility of developing dementia symptoms. The study revealed that individuals with a mild hearing disability had a twofold chance of developing dementia symptoms, while moderate and severe hearing loss resulted in three and fivefold risks of dementia over a period of time. Participants, who were aged 60 years or older, presented a one third risk of dementia. (The Hearing Journal)

There are a number of symptoms which lead to the medical condition called Dementia, which includes speech and communication impairment, memory loss, mood swings, listlessness, difficulty in performing normal everyday tasks, a failing sense of direction and confusion. 

Hearing loss being the cause of dementia symptoms in older individuals prompts the need for effective actions to be taken to address the issue. 

This article is written by: Dr. Lori Trentacoste, head audiologist at Island Better Hearing (www.islandbetterhearing.com)  All images and content in this article are the sole property of the LIAHP and Dr. Trentacoste (c) 2015, All rights reserved whereby use of this article or any content references from this article and/or other written products in this blogsite must be done with express permission from Dr. Lori Trentacoste.

References

John Hopkins Medicine. (2011). Hearing Loss and Dementia Linked In Study. John Hiopkins University . http://www.hopkinsmedicine.org/news/media/releases/hearing_loss_and_dementia_linked_in_study

National Institute on Deafness and Other Comunications Disorders (NIDCD) . (n.d.). Quick Statistics. Retrieved April 2015, from National Institute on Deafness and Other Communications Disorders : http://www.nidcd.nih.gov/health/statistics/pages/quick.aspx

The Hearing Journal. Hearing Loss Linked to Dementia. The Hearing Journal. http://journals.lww.com/thehearingjournal/Fulltext/2011/04000/Hj_Report.2.aspx

     

Noise Causes Hearing Loss

Hearing loss is considered as the second leading cause of a global burden, and a major disability which affects the quality of life of the people suffering from it.  While there might be a number of different reasons for reported hearing loss in an individual, noise is a major contributing factor as well. Hereditary factors, complications at birth, and exposure to dangerously loud noises, are some other common reasons for hearing loss in individuals.

Noise Induced Hearing Loss – Affecting Hearing Abilities

Noise induced hearing loss involves exposure to dangerously high levels of sounds for an extended period of time. Noise induced hearing loss can be a temporary issue or it might become a permanent problem, if an individual is exposed to high decibel noises for a long time.

According to statistics, around 15% of the American population, which is 26 million people that lie between the 20 to 69 years age bracket, suffer from noise induced hearing loss. (National Institute on Deafness and Other Communications Disorders (NIDCD)). This noise induced hearing loss might be due to noise at work or exposure to sounds during leisure activities. 

According to a survey conducted by the Centre for Disease Control and Prevention, around 16% of the teens and young adults, aged between 12 and 19 years, were noted to suffer from hearing loss that was attributed to prolonged exposure to dangerously high sound levels. (Josef Shargorodsky, 2010)

How Does Noise Induced Hearing Loss Occur?

The dangerously high decibel sounds damage the hearing nerves and the hearing cells of the inner ear. This is called as sensorineural hearing loss or nerve damage. This kind of damage mighty be brought about by exposure to sounds of high intensity for brief spells, that might include explosions, or continuous sound in a work environment. The hearing loss might be immediate or it might affect a person, slowly over a period of time. (John Hopkins Medicine ). 

The hearing loss might also result in tinnitus, which is a condition in which there is a ringing sound that is continuously heard in the head. This ringing or buzzing sound is heard as a result of damage to the ears, due to prolonged exposure to loud sounds.

Sounds that might result in noise induced hearing loss include:

·        Firing of guns

·        Motorcycles

·        Airplanes

·        Personal audio devices switched to high frequency sounds

·        Lawn mowers

·        Vacuum cleaners

·        Chain saws

·        Jet engine

·        Construction and heavy machinery

Sounds that are of 80 decibels are considered to be safe, while normal conversations are shared at 60 decibels. A sound of 90 decibels produced from lawn mowers might affect a gradual hearing loss over a period of time. At 110 decibels, sounds from chain saws should be avoided by wearing protective ear wear to avoid any damage to the hearing, while sounds at 140 decibels approximately, produced in rock concerts and by firecrackers, are dangerous enough to cause permanent hearing loss in an individual. (John Hopkins Medicine ). 

To avoid hearing loss and damage from loud noises, ear plugs that fit into the outer ear canal of a person need to be used, while wear muffs that cover the entire outer ear are a good option as well. Decreasing the intensity of the sound to a safe level and avoiding prolonged exposure to dangerously high sound levels can help minimize the damage caused by noised induced hearing loss as well.  

 This article is written by: Dr. Lori Trentacoste, head audiologist at Island Better Hearing (www.islandbetterhearing.com)  All images and content in this article are the sole property of the LIAHP and Dr. Trentacoste (c) 2015, All rights reserved whereby use of this article or any content references from this article and/or other written products in this blogsite must be done with express permission from Dr. Lori Trentacoste.

References

John Hopkins Medicine . (n.d.). Noise Induced Hearing Loss. Retrieved April 2015, from John Hopkins Medicine : http://www.hopkinsmedicine.org/healthlibrary/conditions/otolaryngology/noise-induced_hearing_loss_85,P00458/

Josef Shargorodsky, S. G. (2010). Change In Prevalence of Hearing Loss in US Adolescents . The Journal of the American Medical Association . http://jama.jamanetwork.com/article.aspx?articleid=186427

National Institute on Deafness and Other Communications Disorders (NIDCD). (n.d.). Noise Induced Hearing Loss. Retrieved April 2015, from National Institute on Deafness and Other Communications Disorders (NIDCD): http://www.nidcd.nih.gov/health/hearing/pages/noise.aspx

 

 

NIDCD Estimates 26 Million Americans Suffer From Hearing Loss

According to surveys conducted by the National Institute on Deafness and other Communication Disorders (NIDCD), an estimated 26 to 28 billion Americans suffer from reported hearing loss. Out of this, around 500,000 to 750,000 of the population, has been found to suffer from profound hearing impairments or other hearing defects. (National Institute on Deafness and Other Communications Disorders NIDCD, 2011)

In response to the above observed statistics, there have been measures undertaken by the NIDCD to create awareness amongst parents about the noise induced hearing loss they are exposing their children to, on a daily basis. (NIDCD)

Noise Induced Hearing Loss (NIHL) – Causing Hearing Loss Issues In Children And Adults

According to the statistical information collected and deciphered by the NIDCD, around 10 million Americans are reported to suffer from permanent and irreversible types of hearing loss. This is usually caused from exposure to any loud sounds or noises. (National Institute on Deafness and Other Communications Disorders NIDCD, 2011)

As per estimates, the noise induced hearing loss is recognized as the second most reported occupational disease. It is also recognized as the most expensive disability to cover, for all federal and military workers’ compensation. (NIDCD)

The noise induced hearing loss is found to be caused by the one time or repeated exposure to loud sounds, which may be found to range at various loudness levels that extends for a period of time. The factors which contribute to hearing loss include the proximity to the harmful sound, individual susceptibility and exposure time period, along with the intensity of the sound. (American Hearing Research Foundation )

Jobs That Contribute To Noise Induced Hearing Loss

There are a number of jobs and leisure activities that expose an individual to dangerously high sound frequencies that present a high probability of hearing loss. These include jobs in the manufacturing sector, construction and carpentry segments. Individuals employed in the field of mining and assigned active positions in the military, need to use ear plugs and protective hearing gear to minimize the sound levels and frequencies they are exposed to on a daily basis. Airport staff that is active on the airfield and runways also uses protective hearing gear to avoid damage to their ears.

Leisure activities that contribute to noise induced hearing loss for many, includes riding motorcycles, listening to loud music in bars and nightclubs, and switching to high volume levels when using personal audio devices. Activities like snowmobiling and boating and even attending music classes, concerts and sporting events have a major impact on the hearing loss levels caused by prolonged exposure to loud sounds. 

Statistics

According to the National Institute on Deafness and Other Communications Disorders (NIDCD), around 15% or 26 million of the Americans who lie in between the ages of 20 and 69, suffer from a high level of hearing loss due to prolonged exposure to loud sounds that is experienced as noise at work or due to certain leisure activities. (NIDCD, 2011)

Protective ear plugs, and ear muffs along with other sophisticated ear wear is recommended for better protection. Limiting the time exposed to dangerously loud sound levels and turning down the volume to safe decibels are also ways to prevent noise induced hearing at work or during leisure activities.  

 This article is written by: Dr. Lori Trentacoste, head audiologist at Island Better Hearing (www.islandbetterhearing.com)  All images and content in this article are the sole property of the LIAHP and Dr. Trentacoste (c) 2015, All rights reserved. Use of this article or any content references from this article and/or other written products in this blogsite must be done with express permission from Dr. Lori Trentacoste.

 

References

American Hearing Research Foundation . (n.d.). Noise Induced Hearing Loss. Retrieved April 2015, from American Hearing Research Foundation: http://american-hearing.org/disorders/noise-induced-hearing-loss/

National Institute on Deafness and Other Communications Disorders NIDCD. (2011). Healthy People 2010 Hearing Health Progress Review . NIDCD. http://www.nidcd.nih.gov/health/healthyhearing/what_hh/Pages/progress_review_04.aspx

NIDCD. Inside NIDCD Newsletter. NIDCD. http://www.nidcd.nih.gov/staticresources/health/inside/spr09/InsideSpring09.pdf

NIDCD. (2011). NIDCD is Your Resource for National Protect Your Hearing Month and Beyond. NIDCD. http://www.nidcd.nih.gov/news/releases/11/Pages/101911.aspx

Link Between Hearing Loss And Dementia

Hearing loss has been identified in every 2 to 3 children out of every 1000, born every year in the United States. (National Institute on Deafness and other Communication Disorders (NIDCD), 2015) Over time, studies have also come to light which have linked dementia to the hearing loss disabilities in different individuals. Given the rising trend of hearing loss in the world, it is a cause of major concern.

Hearing Loss And Dementia – Different Medical Conditions But Connected?

Dementia is a medical condition which is related to the decline in the overall mental ability of an individual. Memory loss which affects the daily life rituals is also a condition known as dementia. (Alzheimer's Association ) It is a condition which has a wide range of symptoms, which include:

·       Loss of ability to focus and pay attention to the task at hand

·       Impairment in visual perception

·       Communication impairment and hindrance in language

·       Impaired reasoning and judgment

·       Short term memory loss 

While dementia might be caused due to a number of reasons, a study shows that around 30% of adults aged more than 60 years of age, are at a risk of suffering from this disease. (Lin, Metter, O'Brien, Resnick, Zonderman, & Ferrucci, 2012) And along with a number of causes, hearing loss is being attributed as a possible cause for dementia in people too.   

A recent fact details that hearing loss, which has affected more than 40 million people of the American population, is linked to an increase in the risk probability of dementia and other cognitive problems as well. According to the Hearing Loss Association of America, the number of reported hearing loss cases, are on the rise, and it is estimated that around two thirds of the individuals who reach their 70s suffer from hearing loss. (Griffin, 2015)   

While previously it was considered that hearing loss is an inconsequential part of the aging process, recent studies have prompted experts to think otherwise. An otologist and epidemiologist from John Hopkins University stated that the recent studies have started depicting a link between dementia, brain activity and hearing loss. (Griffin, 2015)

If the study results prove to be true, then there is a chance to avoid dementia, by treating hearing loss aggressively. 

Study Linking Dementia To Hearing Loss

Study investigations suggest that while dementia and hearing loss are unconnected medical conditions, common pathology or the continuous strain of decoding innumerable sounds over the years, might result in the condition where the minds of the individuals who suffer from hearing loss are overwhelmed. This in turn, suggests a high likelihood of linking hearing loss to dementia. (John Hopkins Institute, 2011)

As hearing loss leaves individuals socially isolated, it is also being considered as a major reason for dementia. Taking all these factors into consideration, scientists have proposed a theory to try and use hearing aids as interventions, to treat the severity of hearing loss symptoms in individuals. By doing this, they aim to study the chances of reduced dementia symptoms in people, who are at a high risk of suffering from the medical condition. (John Hopkins Institute, 2011)

Research is underway to further explore this strong connection between the two conditions, and scientists are trying to find ways to treat one condition to avoid the other.

 This article is written by: Dr. Lori Trentacoste, head audiologist at Island Better Hearing (www.islandbetterhearing.com)  All images and content in this article are the sole property of the LIAHP and Dr. Trentacoste (c) 2015, All rights reserved. Use of this article or any content references from this article and/or other written products in this blogsite must be done with express permission from Dr. Lori Trentacoste.

 

References

Alzheimer's Association . (n.d.). What is Dementia. Retrieved from Alzheimer's Association : http://www.alz.org/what-is-dementia.asp

Griffin, K. (2015, April). Hearing Loss linked to Dementia. Retrieved April 27th, 2015, from AARP: http://www.aarp.org/health/brain-health/info-07-2013/hearing-loss-linked-to-dementia.html

John Hopkins Institute. (2011). Hearing Loss and Dementia Linked in Study. John Hopkins Institute. http://www.hopkinsmedicine.org/news/media/releases/hearing_loss_and_dementia_linked_in_study

Lin, F. R., Metter, E. J., O'Brien, R. J., Resnick, S. M., Zonderman, A. B., & Ferrucci, L. (2012). Hearing Loss and Incident Dementia. NCBI . http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3277836/

National Institute on Deafness and other Communication Disorders (NIDCD). (2015, April 20th). Quick Statistics. Retrieved April 27th, 2015, from National Institute on Deafness and Other Communication Disorders (NIDCD): http://www.nidcd.nih.gov/health/statistics/pages/quick.aspx

Hearing Loss - About Twice As Common In Adults With Diabetes

According to a recent study that was funded by NIH, National Institute of Health, adults with diabetes have twice as high probability to suffer from hearing loss compared to others. (National Institute of Health NIH), (American Diabetes Association , 2014) 

The senior author of this research study, Catherine Cowie, who works for the National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases (NIDDK), stated that hearing loss might be a complication of diabetes which is left under recognized by most. She shared her judgment that people who suffer from diabetes, should plan to get a hearing test. (National Institute of Health NIH)

She asserted that her research revealed a strong link between diabetes and hearing impairment that stems from the use of a variety of outcomes. Not only is hearing loss found more readily in diabetic patients, but the disease also presents other limitations like affecting the speech understanding ability of an individual. It stems from problems in hearing, which affects the ability to comprehend speech as well.        

Study Details And Outcomes

The study revealed that a significant number of researchers found high rates of hearing loss in diabetic patients. The results were given for a sample of the population on whom the nationally representative study was conducted. 

The tests conducted included the ability of the different participants to easily decipher middle, low and different high frequency sounds in both the ears. The study results revealed a direct and strong link between diabetes and hearing loss, which was found to be consistently evident across all the different frequencies. The link was found to be quite strong in association when it came to testing the high frequency ranges.     

Statistical details showed a trend in which any mild or high level hearing impairment for the low or the mid frequency sounds, was estimated to be about 21% in the weakest ears of around 399 adults who were reported to have diabetes. This is seen as a stark contrast to the 9% recorded in a total of 4,471 adults who had no history of suffering from diabetes.

In the case of high frequency sounds, calculated for different mild or greater hearing impairments, in the weakest ears of the sample candidates, around 54% were found to have a diabetic history. This was again in sharp contrast to the 32% sample candidates who did not suffer from the disease. 

Adults who were found to have pre-diabetes symptoms, that is a blood glucose higher than the normal one, yet not high enough to be classified as being indicative of diabetes; displayed a 30% higher chance of suffering from hearing loss. This was found in comparison with those individuals who were found to have normal blood sugars that were tested after an overnight fast. (National Institute of Health NIH), (American Diabetes Association , 2014)

The speech understanding ability is also challenged in hearing loss diabetic patients, as they feel that others are mumbling or not speaking clearly. The inability to hear properly inhibits and hinders their ability for speech comprehension.

Research is underway to determine the reason for the connection of diabetes with hearing loss. Researchers believe that the reason for the strong link between both conditions might be due to the damage caused to the nerves and blood vessels in the inner ear. The autopsy studies conducted on diabetic patients have given evidence of such damages. (National Institute of Health NIH)

References

American Diabetes Association . (2014, June). Diabetes and Hearing Loss. Retrieved April 2015, from American Diabetes Association : http://www.diabetes.org/living-with-diabetes/treatment-and-care/seniors/diabetes-and-hearing-loss.html

National Institute of Health NIH. Hearing Loss is Common in People with Diabetes. NIH. http://www.nih.gov/news/health/jun2008/niddk-16.htm

Hearing Aids Helping To Reduce Tinnitus Symptoms

Hearing aids are one of the most common devices and treatment options used for the aid of individuals suffering from hearing loss. These aids help in easy hearing and reduce the stress experienced by an individual with hearing loss, while trying to ensure intensive listening. 

But although many people do use hearing aids for their hearing loss condition, these little machines can also be used to reduce the annoying symptoms and problems caused by tinnitus.

What Is Tinnitus?

It is a medical condition in which an individual experiences ringing sounds in their ears. It is usually referred to as “a sound in the head”, which might be a ringing, whistling, humming, hissing, buzzing, shrieking or even roaring. (Harvard Medical School, 2011)

The symptoms of tinnitus hamper the everyday life schedule of patients. There are a number of reasons for the condition, which might be caused due to use of medications that damage and affect the ear nerves, loud noises, and impacted earwax, to name a few. (Harvard Medical School, 2011). While there are a number of therapies and medications to treat tinnitus, scientists believe that individuals, who have hearing loss and tinnitus symptoms both, can use hearing aids to relieve their annoying symptoms and enjoy easy hearing.

Relieving Tinnitus Symptoms In A Unique Way

Hearing aids are used to facilitate hearing, for individuals who have suffered a hearing loss due to any reason. Tinnitus symptoms on the other hand, are mostly aggravated with loud noises and sounds, along with the stress produced as a result. (Audiological Consultants of Atlanta)

Regardless of the difference, how hearing aids help in relieving the symptoms of tinnitus is easy to explain. Hearing aids are designed to help individuals with hearing loss to hear sounds from their surroundings in a better manner, thus giving them an amplified version of each sound that is produced around them. It assists individuals who suffer from a hearing loss of minor to severe levels, to identify and register the sounds from their environment. Hence, hearing aids can help tinnitus patients to focus their attention on sounds in their surroundings, rather than concentrating and worrying about the ringing in their ears.

Tinnitus patients with hearing loss, suffer severe discomfort when their symptoms are aggravated due to the stress experienced by them, while trying to listen intensively. Hearing aids can thus, be used as a unique and novel solution to the problem experienced by tinnitus patients, as they amplify the surrounding sounds to drown the ringing in the ears. (Haberle & Kristensen, 2012) Additionally, with no stressful experiences involved in trying to differentiate external sounds from the sounds in the head, a tinnitus patient is able to lead a happy and normal life. 

Hearing aids are thus, beneficial for both, individuals suffering from a hearing loss and for those suffering from tinnitus. It ensures a stress free hearing opportunity, to ensure easy hearing, without any ringing in the ears due to aggravated tinnitus symptoms.   

According to a research, about 10% to 15% of the world adult population suffers from the medical condition called tinnitus. And out of this, around 70% to 85% of the individuals are those who have a hearing impairment along with a reported tinnitus condition.  (Haberle & Kristensen, 2012)

This article is written by: Dr. Lori Trentacoste, head audiologist at Island Better Hearing (www.islandbetterhearing.com)  All images and content in this article are the sole property of the LIAHP and Dr. Trentacoste (c) 2015, All rights reserved. Use of this article or any content references from this article and/or other written products in this blogsite must be done with express permission from Dr. Lori Trentacoste.

References

Audiological Consultants of Atlanta. (n.d.). Tinnitus: FAQ. Retrieved from Audiological Consultants of Atlanta ACA: http://audioconsult.com/services/specialized-testing/tinnitus-faq/

Haberle, S., & Kristensen, A. M. (2012). Tinnitus Treatment Options in Hearing Aids:A Novel Appproach to Turning Nonusers into Users. Audiology Online. http://www.audiologyonline.com/articles/tinnitus-treatment-options-in-hearing-11385

Harvard Medical School. (2011). Tinnitus: Ringing in the Ears and What to do About It. Harvard Health Publications . http://www.health.harvard.edu/diseases-and-conditions/tinnitus-ringing-in-the-ears-and-what-to-do-about-it