Rebecca McDonald's Blog

Physical Therapy for your Ears!

2011-07-06T09:52:00.002-05:00

Hearing aids are not the end all to hearing better. There are many factors that will lead you to successful listening and communication.

Better Hearing Institute has done an excellent job of laying out the facts, so I will simply link to their great article on training your brain to listen.

In regards to LACE, which is the program they refer to when talking about aural education, you do not have to have a hearing loss to benefit from it. If you are wanting to enhance your communication skills, you can use the disc for better understanding in noise, multiple talkers and rapid speech.

Happy listening,
Dr. Rebecca

Preventing hearing loss

2011-06-08T12:29:00.002-05:00

On any given day, more than a few patients ask, "what caused my hearing loss?" Well, the answer can vary depending on the case history and the type of loss the person has. Also, there could be that answer no one wants to hear: "I don't know."

Today's article provides 10 ways to prevent hearing loss. There are the usual culprits of hearing loss: noise, smoking and poor circulation. But there are a few that you might not have heard of: COTTON SWABS, some medications and diabetes.

If you think you are having hearing problems, today is as good as any day to get it checked out. So, call your audiologist and set up an appointment for a hearing evaluation and use the tips listed in the article to prevent hearing loss.

--Dr. Rebecca

The cicadas are here...where are you earplugs?

2011-06-07T09:27:00.002-05:00

People are all a buzz about the cicadas that have come to mate in our trees this summer. The noise they produce has been loud and sometimes obnoxious! The sound levels have been measured and it appears that the cicadas are producing upwards of 85-88 decibels!

This is a great time to talk about ear protection!

If you are around noise/music loud enough that you are having to raise your voice when speaking to someone less than 3 feet away, it is too loud. You need to move away from the sound and use ear plugs.

Also, you need to be aware of how loud you are playing your music. Turn the volume control to the left and not only will you be protecting your ears, you are being courteous to your friends and family...they might not want to hear what you are listening to.

And just in case you are seeking more information about the cicadas, here you go!

Happy responsible listening,

Dr. Rebecca

When was the last time you had a hearing test?

2011-05-23T13:22:00.004-05:00

If you don't know the answer to this question or it has been more than 2 years, than you should get your hearing tested!

I know that for a lot of people, the hearing test seems unimportant. However, there are many links between hearing loss and many diseases and disorders, including kidney disease, diabetes and heart problems.

It is also a good idea to have a baseline test so that you can refer to it should your hearing change in the future.

Since I know not everyone will be jumping in their car to get that test done today, there is an online test that you can use as the first step. So today, take the online test, and if it recommends that a professional test be obtained, please follow that recommendation.

--- Dr. Rebecca

What does tinnitus sound like?

2011-05-20T09:13:00.002-05:00

Well, it sounds different to different people! There are some people who hear crickets, some who hear tones, some who hear static or roaring and some who hear music. Other people have a hard time describing what their tinnitus sounds like. Well, for this addition of the tinnitus awareness week blog, you will be able to listen to some samples of what tinnitus sounds like. If you have tinnitus, this would be an opportunity to match up your tinnitus so that you can better describe it to your healthcare provider, family and friends. If you don't have tinnitus but would like to know what it sounds like, here is your opportunity as well.

--Dr. Rebecca

Are you at risk for tinnitus?

2011-05-18T14:32:00.002-05:00

If you are a musician, in the military, a veteran or a music lover who likes to listen to their music loudly, you might be at risk for tinnitus.

Today you can learn about how loud is too loud, information for military personnel and veterans and musicians and the people who love music.

Enjoy!

--Dr. Rebecca

Music therapy for tinnitus

2011-05-17T14:22:00.002-05:00

There are many treatment options for tinnitus that range from supplements to cognitive therapy. Today we will focus on sound therapy. This therapy can be as simple as a CD that plays different environmental sounds to a music generator that matches the hearing and tinnitus level of the patient.

Sound therapy acts like a masker, producing a sound that masks over the tinnitus, giving your brain a different sound (hopefully more pleasing) to focus on. It can be used with headphones, hearing aid like devices or a stereo. While not for everyone, sound therapy can be a viable option in treating tinnitus. I hope you enjoy this article that outlines how and why sound therapy works.

---Dr. Rebecca

Tinnitus Awareness Week

2011-05-16T09:38:00.002-05:00

May 15-21 is Tinnitus Awareness Week. So, all week you will get information about tinnitus: facts, treatments, etc.

There is a fantastic website that is dedicated to tinnitus and finding a cure. It is run by the American Tinnitus Association and there is a wealth of information there. The organization has been around for 40 years! Their mission is not only to find a cure but to educate both patients and providers of treatment about advancements. You will find information about clinical trials that may be available in your area and also a way to contribute to their ongoing efforts.

Below you will find tips on how to manage your tinnitus.

--Dr. Rebecca

Diagnose and Understand Your Tinnitus

DO NOT panic. Tinnitus is usually not a sign of a serious, ongoing medical condition.

CHECK things out. The sounds you hear may actually be normal sounds created by the human body at work.

SEE an audiologist or ear, nose and throat specialist (ENT) interested and experienced in tinnitus treatment.

REVIEW your current medications (prescription, over-the-counter, vitamins and other supplements) with your medical professional to find possible causes of your tinnitus.

BE WARY of a hopeless diagnosis or physician advice like, “There’s nothing you can do about your tinnitus. Go home and live with it.”

BE a detective. Keep track of what triggers your tinnitus.

KEEP UP TO DATE about tinnitus. More and more research by the best and the brightest is bringing us closer to successful treatments and cures for tinnitus.

Find Effective Treatment and Take Care of Yourself

BE KIND to yourself. Developing tinnitus means you have undergone a significant physical, emotional and maybe even life-style change.

EXAMINE how you live to find ways to eliminate or reduce some stress in different parts of your life; stress often makes tinnitus worse.

PAY ATTENTION to what you eat. One-by-one, eliminate possible sources of tinnitus aggravation, e.g., salt, artificial sweeteners, sugar, alcohol, prescription or over-the-counter medications, tobacco and caffeine.(Do not stop taking medications without consulting with your health care professional.)

DON’T GIVE UP on a treatment if it doesn’t work right away. Some can take quite a while to have a positive effect.

PROTECT YOURSELF from further auditory damage by avoiding loud places and by using earplugs when you can’t avoid loud noise.

Your Attitude Matters

DO NOT create any negative forecasts for your tinnitus, such as “This is never going to get any better.” Counting on a better future can help you create one.

TAKE HEART. In many cases people with tinnitus “habituate” to it, meaning they get used to it and notice it less than at first.

BE INVOLVED in your recovery. Consider yourself part of your treatment team where your thoughts and feelings should count.

DO NOT WASTE time blaming yourself for your tinnitus. The causes of tinnitus are varied and difficult to determine.

Line Up Support

LOCATE people who understand your struggles and learn that you are not alone. Have people in your life who , though they cannot “see” or "hear" your tinnitus, understand that you have it.

FIND a support group that will truly understand your struggles with tinnitus and help you sort out useful from useless information. You will find compassion, companionship and coping strategies. (ATA has information on tinnitus support groups and individual, helpful volunteers.)

EDUCATE your family, friends and co-workers about tinnitus; tell them about the conditions and settings that are difficult for you; and ask them for their support.

CONTINUE SEEKING reliable information from ATA and other credible sources.

Going Topless might hurt your hearing!

2011-05-13T16:39:00.003-05:00

Who knew?

Well, we are not talking about that. We are talking about driving in a convertible with the top down at speeds greater than 55 mph. The studies that have been conducted conclude that the wind rushing by the ear can get close to 90 dB!

So, I know that this time of year as it heats up folks like to drive around with the top down, but please be mindful of your hearing!

--Dr. Rebecca

San Antonio - According to research out of Saint Louis University School of Medicine, Missouri, and The Ear Institute of Texas, San Antonio, your new Porsche 911 convertible may be exciting, but it can also damage your hearing.

The researchers tested five popular convertibles and drove with the top down and wind in their ears at various speeds and measured the decibel levels.

Cars tested included the:
2009 Saturn Sky Red Line (pictured)
2004 Nissan 350Z
2001 Porsche 911 C4
2005 Saab Aero Convertible
2005 Ford Mustang GT
Sound level measurements in 80% of the cars at 55 mph with the top down had maximum sound recordings greater than 85 decibels. Exposure to noise above 85 dB for prolonged periods is not recommended, according to the US National Institute of Occupational Safety and Health. The higher the noise level, the shorter the recommended exposure time.

When the researchers revved up to 75 mph, the mean noise exposure inflicted on the driver of a convertible car driven with the top open was 89.9 decibels.

Not only was the mean noise exposure excessive with the top open, but the driver was also exposed to extreme noise "spikes" while driving on the highway, for example, when driving next to a motorcycle or truck.

The study used a sound level meter operated by a passenger in each car tested. The passenger took a series of eight to 10 sound level measurements at various points in the journey from the position of the driver's left ear, at various speeds.

During all data collection, the car radio was turned off, there was no conversation between occupants, air conditioning was turned off, the car horn was not used, and there was no rain or other inclement weather.

Drivers of convertible cars may also be exposed to additional noise when listening to the car radio. Even for comfortable listening, the radio volume levels required while driving under the conditions assessed in this study are likely to add significantly to the noise exposure level.

The good news is that when the top is closed, there is no more than minimal risk of excessive noise exposure above 55 mph.

The researchers therefore recommend that convertible drivers drive with the top closed when traveling for extended periods of time at speeds exceeding 55 mph or 85.3 kmph.

Originally piublished by The Hearing Review

The full study

Noise and your hearing

2011-05-12T12:05:00.000-05:00

Many people take for granted the affects of noise on their hearing. From the loud music blaring from your iPod to the noise of traffic on the street, we are inundated with noise all around us.

For some folks, the noise they hear most often comes from work: factories, mills, production plants, etc. When in the workplace, OSHA requires that you wear ear protection if you are around noise that meets or exceeds 85 dB (decibels) for an 8 hour period.

If you are not wearing ear protection when it is required, this is problematic for both you and your employer. You can lose hearing which can become permanent loss and your employer could be sited with huge fines.

Many workers report that the ear plugs provided can be uncomfortable to wear and may block speech when they are talking to other workers. There is a way around this! You can ask your employer for different ear protection such as muffs, ear plugs made out of a different material (soft reusable plastic vs. soft disposable foam) or custom molds can be made.

It is very important to protect your ears from noise. Whenever you are going to be around noise, please wear ear protection or leave the environment so that you will not be affected. Even when you are mowing the lawn or using power tools, please protect your ears!

Below you will find some facts about noise and how it affects your hearing. Enjoy!

--Dr. Rebecca

Facts about Noise and Hearing

Approximately 30 million workers are exposed to hazardous levels of noise on the job. Another 9 million are at risk for hearing loss from other agents such as solvents and metals.

• Noise-induced hearing loss is caused by damage to the hair cells found in the inner ear. Hair cells are small sensory cells that convert the sounds we hear (sound energy) into electrical signals sent to the brain.

• Once damaged our hair cells cannot grow back, causing permanent hearing loss.

•The Cost of Losing Your Hearing

When you lose your hearing, there is a loss to your quality of life. Untreated hearing loss may:
o Strain relationships with family, friends, and/or co-workers.
o Stop you from doing the things you used to enjoy.
o Impact your earning power on the job.
o Reduce your ability to understand what people are saying.

• Preventing Hearing Loss

Although hearing loss is a common effect of aging, some Americans are starting to lose their hearing earlier in life as a result of exposure to noise, noise-induced hearing loss. Noise-induced hearing loss is 100% preventable.

• Wear hearing protection such as ear plugs and earmuffs when being exposed to levels of noise over 85 decibels (dB) for extended periods of time. (Look for the NRR rating to know the approximate dB reduction the ear protection provides.)

A quick reference for levels of noise:

60 dB—Normal conversations or dishwashers
80 dB—Alarm clocks
90 dB—Hair dryers, blenders, and lawnmowers
100 dB—MP3 players at full volume
110 dB—Concerts, car racing, and sporting events
120 dB—Jet planes at take off
130 dB—Ambulances and fire engine sirens
140 dB—Gun shots, fireworks, and custom car stereos at full volume

10 Fun Facts About Hearing

2011-05-11T12:46:00.003-05:00

This is a repost from the American Academy of Audiology. I thought you might enjoy some fun facts about hearing. I can be pretty serious when it comes to ears and hearing but there is always some time for fun, right?

Well, here goes!

--Dr. Rebecca

10 FUN FACTS ABOUT HEARING
1. Fish do not have ears, but they can hear pressure changes through ridges on their body.

2.The ear’s malleus, incus and stapes (otherwise known as the hammer, anvil and stirrup) are the smallest bones in the human body. All three together could fit together on a penny.

3. The ear continues to hear sounds, even while you sleep.

4. Sound travels at the speed of 1,130 feet per second, or 770 miles per hour.

5. Dogs can hear much higher frequencies than humans.

6. Ears not only help you hear, but also aid in balance.

7. Snakes hear through the jaw bone and through a traditional inner ear. In essence, snakes have two distinct hearing mechanisms, which helps them hear and catch prey.

8. Sitting in front of the speakers at a rock concert can expose you to 120 decibels, which will begin to damage hearing in only 7 1/2 minutes.

9. Thirty-seven percent of children with only minimal hearing loss fail at least one grade.

10. Male mosquitoes hear with thousands of tiny hairs growing on their antennae.

References

Better Hearing Institute (2008). BHI Factoids. Retrieved from: http://www.betterhearing.org/research/factoids.cfm

Sight and Hearing Association (2002). Health Issue of The Month. Retrieved from: http://www.sightandhearing.org/news/healthissue/archive/hi_0802.asp
The Nemours Foundation (2006).

Your Ears. Retrieved from: http://kidshealth.org/PageManager.jsp?lic=1&article_set=54031&cat_id=20607
Healthy Hearing (2008).

Do Snakes Have Ears? How Do Snakes Hear Ssssssounds? Retrieved from: http://www.healthyhearing.com/hearing_library/article_content.asp?article_id=847
Bess, F.H., Dodd-Murphy, J., & Parker, R.A. (1998).

Children with minimal sensorineural hearing loss:
Prevalence, educational performance, and functional status. Ear & Hearing, 19(5), 339-354

May is Better Hearing Month

2011-05-11T11:53:00.003-05:00

I will be leaving some information on the blog regarding hearing and hearing loss all month. I will be attaching some cool tools that you can use as well. Here is a worksheet that you can feel out to see if you know how loud is too loud. I will post the answer later.

How loud is too loud Quiz

Tinnitus Treatment

2011-05-11T11:41:00.004-05:00

According to the American Tinnitus Association (ATA), tinnitus affects more than 50 million people in the United States.

I see many people each day looking for that miracle cure for tinnitus...and as of right now, there is none. Many people are also wanting to use natural remedies and so I am linking to the Better Hearing Institutes's blog wherein they discuss the efficacy of using the natural treatments that are currently available. Below you will also find the link to the ATA website. They have a wealth of information.

--Dr. Rebecca

Is there tinnitus relief through herbal treatments?

American Tinnitus Association

New Tax Credit Bill Introduced in the Senate

2011-05-11T10:38:00.005-05:00

This tax credit legislation is different than the last bill introduced in that it includes EVERYONE and has no restriction for age. Please take the time to encourage your senators to support this!!

---Dr. Rebecca

Hearing Aid Tax Credit Take Action!

Legislation Introduced in the Senate

Senators Tom Harkin (D-IA) and Olympia Snowe (R-ME) have introduced S.905, the Hearing Aid Assistance Tax Credit Act. The legislation provides a tax credit of up to $500 per hearing aid, once every five years for any individual who purchases a hearing aid. Senators Herb Kohl (D-WI), Thad Cochran (R-MS), Tim Johnson (D-SD), Richard Blumenthal (D-CT), Amy Klobuchar (D-MN), and Kristen Gillibrand (D-NY) are all original co-sponsors of this legislation.

The legislation differs from H.R. 1479, which was introduced by Congressman Tom Latham (R-IA) and Carolyn McCarthy (D-NY), which would provide a tax credit of up to $500 per hearing aid every five years for parents purchasing hearing aids for their dependent children or persons over 55 years old. H.R. 1479 also includes a $200,000 annual eligibility income cap.

Please request that your members of Congress co-sponsor these legislative initiatives

You can get more information at: Hearing Aid Tax Credit

Debunking Hearing Loss Myths

2010-09-20T13:12:00.002-05:00

Here is an excellent article from the Better Hearing Institute. I have linked to their website as well as copied the article here for your convenience.

Having trouble hearing? Listen to the truth behind hearing loss myths

(ARA) – Sure, you sometimes have to ask people to repeat themselves, and the volume knob on the car stereo is set much farther to the right than it used to be. But you can’t be experiencing hearing loss – you’re not a senior citizen. Hearing loss only affects the old, right?

Not necessarily. “Only 40 percent of people with hearing loss are older than 64,” says Dr. Sergei Kochkin, executive director of the Better Hearing Institute in Washington, D.C. “The largest age group with hearing loss is people between 18 and 64 – about 19 million people compared to 14 million at retirement age. More than 1 million school-age children have hearing problems, as well.”

The idea that hearing loss only happens to the aged – and is an unavoidable circumstance of aging – is just one of many commonly believed myths about the issue. The truth is that hearing loss affects all age groups. If you want to avoid hearing loss, it pays to know the truth behind the myths and the basics of hearing loss prevention.

Here are some common myths about hearing loss, and the truth behind the myths:

Myth: If I had hearing loss, my family doctor would have told me.

Truth: Only 15 percent of doctors routinely screen for hearing loss during a physical exam. Even when a doctor does screen for hearing problems, the results may be suspect since most people with hearing problems hear pretty well in quiet environments – like a doctor’s office. Without special training on hearing loss, it may be difficult for your family doctor to even realize you have a hearing problem.

Myth: Nothing can be done about my hearing loss.

Truth: People with hearing loss in one ear, with a high-frequency hearing loss, or with nerve damage may have been told by their family doctor that nothing can be done to help. Modern technology has changed that. Now, nearly 95 percent of people with hearing loss can be helped, most with hearing aids.

Myth: Only people with serious hearing loss need hearing aids.

Truth: Your lifestyle, your need for refined hearing and the degree of your hearing loss will determine whether you need a hearing aid. If you’re in a profession that relies on your ability to discern the nuances of human conversation – such as a lawyer, teacher or group psychotherapist – even mild hearing loss can interfere with your life.

Myth: Hearing aids are big and ugly. Wearing one will make me look old or disabled.

Truth: Untreated hearing loss is far more noticeable than today’s hearing aids. If you miss the punch line of a joke, or respond inappropriately to a comment or question, people may wonder about your mental capacity. Hearing aid makers realize people are concerned about how they will look wearing a hearing aid. Today, you can find miniature hearing aids that fit totally within the ear canal or behind your ear, making them virtually invisible.

Myth: Hearing loss is an inevitable part of growing older and there’s nothing I can do to prevent it from happening to me.

Truth: You can take steps to prevent hearing loss. Noise is one of the most common causes of hearing loss; 10 million Americans have already suffered irreversible damage to their hearing from noise. Yet a third of all hearing loss could be prevented with proper ear protection.

Myth: I cannot afford hearing aids

Truth: There is a wide price range in hearing aids on the market just like there is for other consumer products. In addition the BHI has identified close to a 100 sources for financial help in their eGuide “Your Guide to Financial Assistance with Hearing Aids”.

If you work in a high-risk profession, make sure your hearing is protected according to OSHA regulations, and wear hearing protection such as foam or silicone plugs or earmuffs. At home, lower the volume on the TV, radio, stereo and any device that uses earbuds or headphones. Wear ear protection while mowing the lawn or blowing leaves or snow. Buy quieter products (compare decibel ratings) and reduce the number of noisy appliances running at the same time in your home. Before taking a new medicine, be sure to ask the doctor about any possible side effects on your hearing.

To learn more about hearing loss, treatment for hearing loss and hearing loss prevention, visit the Better Hearing Institute online at www.BetterHearing.org. Or take the BHI’s online hearing test at www.hearingcheck.org.

Walk for Hearing

2009-09-21T13:42:00.004-05:00

I recently accepted the challenge of participating in the Walk4Hearing produced by the Hearing Loss Association of America.

Do you know that one in ten persons in the United States has a hearing loss? The goal of the Walk4Hearing is to increase awareness about the causes and consequences of hearing loss and to raise funds to provide information and support for people with hearing loss.

I am asking you to help by supporting my fundraising efforts with a donation. Your tax-deductible gift will make a difference in the lives of many! It is faster and easier than ever to support this great cause - you can make your donation online by simply clicking on the link at the bottom of this message. If you would prefer, you can also send your tax-deductible contribution to the address listed below.

Any amount, great or small, helps in the fight. I greatly appreciate your support and will keep you posted on my progress.

Click here to visit my personal page.
http://hlaa.convio.net/site/TR/Teamraiser/2009StLouisWalk?px=1342021&pg=personal&fr_id=1530&et=_kWms2nT_8Kti2sl6-qk7g..&s_tafId=6731

Click here to view the team page for Hometown Hearing and Audiology
http://hlaa.convio.net/site/TR/Teamraiser/2009StLouisWalk?team_id=12880&pg=team&fr_id=1530&et=qgqqlBm96tn8MshpewwJFg..&s_tafId=6731

Hearing Helpers

2009-09-21T13:40:00.001-05:00

Sometimes it can be hard for individuals with hearing loss to recognize that they depend on others to understand speech. An intervention may not be appropriate for everyone, but letting them know how dependent they are may steer them towards help.--Dr. McDonald

Sergei Kochkin, Ph.D. Executive Director
Better Hearing Institute

One of the most aggravating aspects of living with an individual with hearing loss, who is in denial (everyone mumbles they say), is constantly repeating your self, speaking louder, or interpreting the world for them. There is a way to release yourself from this maddening co-dependent relationship and at the same time to motivate your loved to seek help for their hearing loss.

Dr. Richard Carmen (Auricle Ink Publishers, Sedona) has done a masterful job of offering help to family members in his book How hearing loss impacts relationships: Motivating your loved one. In addition as advisor to the Better Hearing Institute he offers suggestions on our website under the title "When a loved one resists help".

I encourage all people caught in the trap of being the ears for their loved one to read Dr. Carmen's book and his advice on this website. But let me summarize the key aspects of how you can set yourself free:

1. Understand that being the ears of your loved one is not an act of love.

2. Assisting loved ones in denial is counterproductive and encourages co-dependent relationships. Continuing to give help could lead to your loved one's failure in life as well as impact many aspects of their quality of life such as performance on the job. It is important you understand the areas impacted by untreated hearing loss as documented on the Better Hearing Institute website.

3. And remember if you continue to help them why should they seek help?

4. Make it your ULTIMATE goal to have your loved one hear independent of you; and don't do it alone. Get your entire family and their friends in your corner in a productive conspiracy to get your loved one in denial to finally realize they have a hearing problem.

5. Dr. Carmen's practical tips are: STOP repeating yourself! STOP raising your voice! STOP being the messenger by carrying the communication load for the family! In essence this means, STOP BEING THEIR EARS!

Here is one very clever intervention that could set you free. Explain to your loved one as follows in a calm, loving, non-condemnatory voice:

The whole family has had a talk. We believe you have a hearing loss and in the past we have helped you by speaking louder, repeating ourselves, or interpreting what other people have said. In effect we have become your hearing aid. But we realized this might not be the most loving acts we can do for you. We love you very much and want you to get help for your hearing loss. So from now on we will move toward stopping repeating ourselves when you say "Huh" or "What did he say?" and we will move toward no longer speaking louder so you can understand us. Instead we will simply say the words "Hearing Helper" (or choose another signal word that has meaning for your family) before we give you help. This is our signal to you that you have just asked us to be your ears. This is our way of demonstrating our love for you — that is by showing you how many times you ask for help. So for X period of time (e.g. a few weeks) we will continue to help you but we will preface our help with the words "Hearing Helper"…we think in a short period of time you will realize how many times you seek our help in hearing."

Many loved ones in denial will soon realize how much they use your ears; when this happens they will seek help. Encourage them in their journey to a world of better hearing. And enjoy your new found freedom!

(Note: this advice is ONLY for people in denial and who have not sought help for their hearing loss)

Walk 4 Hearing

2009-08-07T13:39:00.001-05:00

I am going to walk...anyone want to join? --Dr. McDonald

http://hlaa.convio.net/site/TR/Teamraiser/2009StLouisWalk?fr_id=1530&pg=entry

Date:
Saturday, October 3, 2009

Location:
Tower Grove Park
4256 Magnolia Ave.
St. Louis, Missouri Directions

Schedule:
Registration starts at 9am and Walk starts at 10am

Walk Chairs:
Bob Foster and Mary Stodden

I will not be able to go to the kick-off, but they are holding it on

Saturday, August 22, 2009 (2:00pm to 4:00pm)
Greater St. Louis Assoc of the Deaf
2190 Creve Coeur Mill Rd
Maryland Heights, MO 63043

Tax credit for hearing aids...it looks we are getting closer to a vote

2009-08-07T12:03:00.005-05:00

We finally have 100 sponsors! Don't forget to call your representatives and senators regarding this important legislation. Dr. McDonald

Hearing Aid Tax Credit Races Across 100th Cosponsor Threshold

Washington — Call it the speed of sound. The Hearing Aid Assistance Tax Credit (HR 1646) has reached the symbolic cosponsorship threshold of 100 representatives at the end of July before the start of the 111th Congress' August reces, said the Hearing Industries Association (HIA) in a statement. In addition the HIA has also announced that Sen Olympia Snowe (R-Me) has joined as a cosponsor of the Senate's version the Hearing Aid Tax Credit (S 1019), and will cosign a “Dear Colleague” letter with Sen Harkin (D-Iowa) urging support from other senators.

This key milepost in the House was reached in only 5 months after the bill was introduced by congresspersons Carolyn McCarthy (D-NY) and Vern Ehlers (R-Mich) on March 19. The legislation also includes 14 cosponsorships from members of the House Ways and Means Committee, which has jurisdiction over all tax legislation. In the 110th Congress (2007-2008), it took more than a year to reach the 100 cosponsor plateau. The bill has solid bipartisan House support from 66 Democrats and 34 Republicans, says the HIA.

As an influential member of the Senate Finance Committee, which reviews all tax legislation, Snowe’s cosponsorship and active support of the bill is significant, says the HIA. A cosponsor in the previous Congress, Snowe had declined to take a leading role on the tax credit while the Minnesota election outcome was still undetermined. Norm Coleman (R-Minn) was the original Republican champion of the Senate bill.

HIA is sponsoring two constituent events during the August recess period to thank representatives for their support of the legislation and to urge them to champion the bill in the coming months.

*

The AG Bell Association for the Deaf and Hard of Hearing Nevada chapter is hosting a brunch for Rep Dina Titus (D-Nev) on Aug 22.
*

A coalition of groups, including the Hearing Loss Association of Wisconsin, members of the International Hearing Society, and local audiologists are coordinating a luncheon for Rep Ron Kind (D-Wis) on Aug 28.

Members of groups that support the hearing aid tax credit are planning other meetings with Ways and Means Committee members during the August recess to urge their support. Groups are already working to schedule meetings in Springfield, Mass; Raleigh, NC; and Bismarck, ND. Other meetings are planned for Birmingham, Ala; Clifton, NJ; Bronx, NY; and Buffalo, NY.

http://www.hearingreview.com/insider/2009-08-06_01.asp

My parents got tested...so should you!

2009-07-24T14:21:00.004-05:00

My parents came to visit me at the office. Mom thought dad was missing some words and dad said mom needed her ears cleaned! Well, turns out that mom has normal hearing and dad has some mild high frequency hearing loss. Neither of them had wax!

Both of them were concerned that the other wasn't hearing well and they needed to have a hearing test to end that age old argument...are you ignoring me????

I hope that you come in and get your hearing tested. Lets remove all doubt about what you are and aren't hearing!

Dr. McDonald

Good news for veterans!

2009-07-02T12:53:00.003-05:00

As we get ready to celebrate our independence in a few days, it is nice to hear that a company is going to offer a break (discount) for the brave men and women of the armed forces with hearing loss. Williams Sound is going to offer their products at a discounted rate for veterans, both active and retired. Read the info below and follow the link for more information! --Dr. McDonald

Williams Sound Introduces Reduced-Cost ALD Program For Veterans

Eden Prairie, Minn — Williams Sound, a global manufacturer of wireless listening technology, has announced that it has teamed with the Military Audiology Association (MAA) to offer the Retiree Assistive Listening Device (RALD) program to retired and active-duty military service members and their families. The RALD program was created to provide these honored individuals access to assistive listening devices (ALDs) at a reduced cost, along with free personalized telephone support.

ALDs from Williams Sound are devices designed to help individuals with hearing difficulties hear more clearly in a wide array of social situations, whether those needs are specific to listening on the phone, to a television, in a group setting or during one-on-one conversations. An ALD is designed to pick up sounds from the sound source and bring it directly to the listener’s ear, without the distraction of background noise.

For more information at RALD, please visit: www.williamssound.com/rald and www.militaryaudiology.org.

Mass transit bad for your ears?

2009-06-25T16:38:00.003-05:00

The latest news from the American Journal of Public Health is that mass transit, at least in New York, may create enough noise to be hazardous to your ears. With the world moving towards "greener" transportation, this is not good news, but it sounds like they have issued some recommendations that would reduce noise.--Dr. McDonald

Mass Transit Riding May Be Harmful To Your Ears

Washington — Riders of mass transit are exposed to noise at levels that may exceed recommended limits, and thus may experience noise-induced hearing loss given sufficient exposure duration times, reports a new study from researchers University of Washington and the Columbia University Department of Sociomedical Sciences to be published in the July issue of the American Journal of Public Health.

Researchers evaluated the noise levels of a representation of New York City mass transit systems (subways, buses, ferries, tramways and commuter railways) during June and July 2007. Subway cars and platforms had the highest associated equivalent continuous average and maximum noise levels, but all systems showed some potential for noise exposure.

The study concludes: "Mass transit noise exposure has the potential to exceed limits recommended by the World Health Organization and the US Environmental Protection Agency and thus cause noise-induced hearing loss among riders of all forms of mass transit given sufficient exposure durations. Environmental noise–control efforts in mass transit and, in cases in which controls are infeasible, the use of personal hearing protection would benefit the ridership’s hearing health."

The study's authors suggest, "Engineering noise-control efforts, including increased transit infrastructure maintenance and the use of quieter equipment, should be given priority over use of hearing protection, which requires rider motivation and knowledge of how and when to wear it."
http://www.ajph.org/cgi/content/abstract/AJPH.2008.138297v1?maxtoshow=&HITS=10&hits=10&RESULTFORMAT=&fulltext=subways&searchid=1&FIRSTINDEX=0&sortspec=relevance&resourcetype=HWCIT

Tinnitus and Hearing aids

2009-05-27T15:10:00.002-05:00

Just about everyday, I see patients who have tinnitus (ringing, buzzing, whistling in the ear) and one of their questions is whether or not the hearing aid will help. The good news is that for most patients, they are able to get some kind of relief from the tinnitus with consistent hearing aid use. Below you will find an article about the benefits of using a hearing aid to relieve tinnitus. ---Dr. McDonald

Constant Ringing in Your Ears? Hearing Aids Offer Hope

(ARA) – If it seems like your ears ring constantly, it’s probably not your imagination or the economy . . . and you’re not alone. You may have tinnitus, an inner ear ailment that affects between 25 million to 50 million Americans -- with about 12 million people experiencing such severe symptoms it affects their
daily lives.

The good news is treatment, including hearing aids, can offer relief to some suffering the persistent ringing, buzzing or humming associated with tinnitus,
says the Better Hearing Institute.

Tinnitus can be intermittent or constant. Causes range from ear infections and overexposure to extremely loud noises, to underlying health problems like allergies or heart and blood pressure problems. Often, sufferers are unable to pinpoint the cause of their tinnitus.

“Tinnitus can have a direct impact on a person’s emotional well being,” says Dr. Sergei Kochkin, BHI’s executive director. “Not only can their hearing be affected but also their ability to sleep and to concentrate.” Kochkin and Dr. Richard Tyler, a professor in the University of Iowa’s otolaryngology and communication sciences and disorders departments and editor of The Consumer Handbook on Tinnitus (Auricle Ink, 2008), published an article in the December 2008 Hearing Review on their survey of 230 hearing health professionals in the United States and Canada. Their survey found that six out of 10 patients reported some tinnitus relief when using hearing aids and two out of 10 reported major relief.

The symptoms of tinnitus “influence basic life functions such as socialization and
relaxation,” the duo wrote. “In severe cases it can interfere with the individual’s ability to perform adequately on the job, or contribute to psychological disorders such as depression, suicide ideation, posttraumatic stress disorder, anxiety and anger.”

Although tinnitus is actually common and can cause major life disruptions, the number
of sufferers who seek treatment for the problem is relatively small. One reason may be that they mistakenly believe their condition is untreatable. Unfortunately, many doctors are also unaware of the latest treatment option, BHI says. Patients may think they simply have to learn to live with the noise.

“No one should ever ignore persistent tinnitus,” Kochkin says. “Not only is every
individual entitled to a chance to regain his or her quality of life, but in rare cases tinnitus also can be a symptom of a more serious health issue that could demand medical intervention. What’s more, nearly everyone with tinnitus has hearing loss as well.”

In a recent large-scale survey by the Better Hearing Institute of the American hearing impaired population, 39 percent (more than 9 million adult Americans) indicated they had not sought help for their hearing loss specifically because they also had tinnitus. “Research shows that untreated hearing loss has its own negative social, psychological, cognitive and health effects on the individual suffering from it,” Kochkin adds. “So the individual with both untreated tinnitus and untreated hearing loss suffers an even more diminished quality of life than individuals with just tinnitus or just hearing loss.”

While hearing aids are not a cure for tinnitus, they may be able to help tinnitus patients by:

• Improving communication and reducing stress, which makes it easier to cope
with the condition.

• Amplifying background sounds, which can make tinnitus seem less loud and
prominent.

A new type of hearing aid, called the open fit hearing aid, may be particularly useful in alleviating tinnitus. The open fit hearing aid can reduce the effects of the tinnitus ringing sensation while still allowing sounds from the outside to pass into the ear.

If you think you have tinnitus have your hearing evaluated by a hearing health
professional and to explore the use of hearing aids to alleviate tinnitus. The American Academy of Otolaryngology (AAO-HNS) and the American Tinnitus Association
recommends these additional tips for minimizing the effects of tinnitus on your health:

• Avoid exposure to loud sounds and noises.

• Get your blood pressure checked. If it is high, get your doctor’s help to control it.

• Decrease your intake of salt. Salt impairs blood circulation.

• Avoid stimulants such as coffee, tea, cola, and tobacco.

• Exercise daily to improve your circulation.

• Get adequate rest and avoid fatigue.

• Eliminate or reduce some stress in different parts of your life; stress often makes
tinnitus worse.

• Experiment by eliminating other possible sources of tinnitus aggravation, e.g.
artificial sweeteners, sugar, alcohol, prescription or over-the-counter medications.
(Do not stop taking medications without consulting with your health care
professional about the possible ototoxic impact of your medications.)

Furthermore the Better Hearing Institute recommends that in addition to the practical
tips above (which apply to a healthy lifestyle for all people) that people with tinnitus may receive benefit by simply understanding the causes, myths and facts about tinnitus through either counseling or self-help books. “We believe that if hearing health professionals can provide effective treatment for tinnitus, they also can be instrumental in motivating people to concurrently treat their hearing loss,” Kochkin says. “This would have a double impact in improving the quality of life for millions of Americans.”

To learn more, visit www.betterhearing.org or call the Better Hearing Institute hotline at (800) EAR-WELL (800-327-9355).

###

Editor’s Note:
Founded in 1973, The Better Hearing Institute (BHI) conducts research and engages in
hearing health education with the goal of helping people with hearing loss to benefit
from proper treatment.

Facts about Noise and your Hearing

2009-05-11T14:08:00.002-05:00

In my practice, I see alot of patients who have been exposed to noise and now have a hearing loss which makes it difficult for them to communicate.

I present the following information in hope that it provides you with the facts you need to protect yourself from noise. --Dr. McDonald

Approximately 36 million Americans have hearing loss. One in three developed their hearing loss as a result of exposure to noise.

Noise-induced hearing loss is caused by damage to the hair cells that are found in our inner ear. Hair cells are small sensory cells that convert the sounds we hear (sound energy) into electrical signals that travel to the brain. Once damaged our hair cells cannot grow back, causing permanent hearing loss.

Hearing protection decreases the intensity, or loudness, of noise and helps preserve your hearing.

• Harmful sounds are (1) too loud and last too long or (2) are very loud and sudden.

o For example, exposure to a one-time intense “impulse” sound such as an explosion, or by continuous exposure to loud sounds over an extended period of time, such as sitting to close during a concert (rock, country, symphony, or any genre of music).

o You may encounter harmful sounds at work, at home, and during recreational activities. (If you work in a hazardous noise environment, speak with your supervisor or compliance officer about OSHA recommendations on your amount of noise exposure.)

• The loudness of sound is measured in units called decibels (dB). Noise-induced hearing loss can be caused by prolonged exposure to any loud noise over 85 (dB).
60 dB Normal conversations or dishwashers
80 dB Alarm clocks
90 dB Hair dryers, blenders, lawnmowers
100 dB MP3 players at full volume
110 dB Concerts (any music genre), car racing and sporting events
120dB Jet planes at take off
130 dB Ambulances
140 dB Gun shots, fireworks, and custom car stereos at full volume

• Noise is dangerous if…
o You have to shout over background noise to be heard
o The noise is painful to your ears
o The noise makes your ears ring
o You have decreased or “muffled” hearing for several hours after exposure

• Protect your hearing, by…
o Wearing hearing protection when around sounds louder than 85dB for a long period of time. There are different types of hearing protection such as foam earplugs, earmuffs and custom hearing protection devices.

Contact our office for custom hearing protection devices.

o Turning down the volume when listening to the radio, the TV, MP3 player, or anything through ear buds and headphones. (Visit www.TurnItToTheLeft.com)
o Walking away from the noise.
o And, other than hearing protection, do not put anything in your ear!

Tips for looking and hearing your best at your next job interview

2009-05-06T17:27:00.001-05:00

When it comes to job interviews, how you hear affects how you look:

5 tips for hearing and looking your best

You walk into the job interview. Your hair is groomed. Your skin is smooth. You’re wearing your best interview suit. Dahhling, you look fabulous, right?

Not necessarily. What happens when you sit down and the interviewer starts asking you a question and you suddenly realize you can’t really hear what she’s saying? Now you lean in, furrow your brows, and hunch your shoulders. You scrunch up your eyes and strain with all your might to hear your best.

How do you look now?

Unfortunately, the interviewer may see you in a different light. Now she’s wondering why you look so uncomfortable. She’s noticing the confidence slip from your face. And she’s thinking maybe she needs to keep interviewing others.

In the United States, approximately 31.5 million Americans have hearing loss, and that includes 3 out of 10 people ages 60 plus, according to the Better Hearing Institute.

With today’s down economy, many of these seniors either need to postpone retirement or return to work. Sixty percent of workers over the age of 60 are postponing retirement due to the impact of the financial crisis on their long-term savings, according to a recent CareerBuilder/USA Today national survey of employers.

And those re-entering the workforce are competing against younger workers eager to scoop up the jobs.

Excellent listening skills are ranked high by employers as desirable job attributes. Fully 73 percent of employers surveyed by ACT, a leading college and workforce planning organization, ranked listening as “extremely important” job skills.

So, while people may feel that to look young they can’t be seen wearing a hearing device, they are much more likely to be perceived as old and less capable if they ignore their hearing needs and are unable to be effective listeners.

Before going in for an interview, follow these tips:

· Take the free, easy, online hearing check offered by the Better Hearing Institute at http://www.hometown-hearing.com/quickhearingtest.asp

· If you think you may have hearing loss, call Hometown Hearing and Audiology to get your hearing tested.

· If you have a hearing loss that can be treated with hearing devices – and 95% of hearing losses can be improved with hearing devices – get fitted for them.

· Start wearing your hearing devices immediately, and see what a difference they make.

· Then, go into the interview confident in your hearing and listen-up! The job is yours.

May is Better Hearing Month!

2009-05-05T12:45:00.001-05:00

In celebration of Better Hearing Month, below you will find some facts about hearing loss:

Approximately 36 million Americans suffer from hearing loss.

More than half of the people with hearing loss are younger than age 65.

Untreated hearing loss can affect your ability to understand speech and can negatively impact your social and emotional well-being—hearing impairment can decrease your quality of life!

Hearing loss is the third most common health problem in the United States.

Signs you may have a hearing loss:

• Difficulty hearing people talk in noisy environments such as a restaurant, shopping mall, in a car, or at the movie theater.

• People seem to “mumble” all the time.

• Family, friends, or colleagues often have to repeat themselves when speaking with you.

• You have trouble hearing people when they are not facing you or are in another room.

• You have trouble following conversations.

• You have ringing, buzzing, or hissing sounds in your ears.

What causes hearing loss?

• Exposure to excessive loud noise.

• Ear infections, trauma, or ear disease.

• Harm of the inner ear and ear drum from contact with a foreign object (cotton swabs, fingers, bugs).

• Illness or certain medications.

• Deteriorating hearing due to the normal aging process.
How to protect your hearing.

• Wear hearing protection when around sounds louder than 85dB for a long period of time. There are different types of hearing protection such as foam earplugs, earmuffs and custom hearing protection devices. Contact your local audiologist for custom hearing protection devices.

• Turn down the volume when listening to the radio, the TV, MP3 player, or anything through ear buds and headphones. (Visit www.TurnItToTheLeft.com)

• Walk away from the noise.

• And, other than hearing protection, do not put anything in your ear!

Hearing Aid Tax Credit

2009-04-23T21:32:00.001-05:00

Hearing loss affects 1 in 4 households in America. Congress is considering a proposal to provide Americans with a tax credit for hearing aid treatment. They need to hear that you support this idea now! While passage of the tax credit bill may not impact you it could help a friend or relative of yours. Visit www.hearingaidtaxcredit.org and make your voice heard either for yourself or on behalf of a relative or friend. Please forward this information to anyone else who may benefit from this legislation.

Hearing Aids Can Be Fun!

2009-04-23T21:18:00.002-05:00

There are some new developments in hearing aid technology that have made hearing aids not only fun to wear, but easy to manage!

Auto phone through both ears: You can now put the phone to one ear and the hearing aids will switch to the phone setting in both ears! This feature is called duo phone and it is very cool!

Zoom Control: You can now zoom in on the left, right, front or back depending on where you want the hearing aid to emphasize the amplification. You can now use this function on the hearing aid without a remote control!

FM systems: Studies have long shown the benefits of FM technology. Now even if you have normal hearing or a slight hearing loss but struggle in noise or need a boost in noisy settings in addition to your hearing aid, you can benefit from a dynamic FM system that has noise reduction that can significantly increase your ability to understand in noisy situations!

To learn more, visit the link to our website!

I'd like to welcome you to my blog!

2009-04-22T15:54:00.001-05:00

Welcome to my blog. Hopefully you'll find this site both educational and entertaining -- from time to time I will post informative articles about different subjects pertaining to hearing, as well as other helpful information.

Please check back from time to time for updates; add my blog to your Favorites so you can always know where to find important information regarding your hearing healthcare.

Thanks for coming by!