FOREWARNED IS FORARMED

While safety and careful handling is top the list on the proper use of a firearm, the use of hearing protection is not far behind. The National Institute on Deafness and Other Communication Disorders says that 10 million Americans have already suffered irreversible hearing loss due to noise, and 30 million more are exposed to dangerous noise levels daily. This includes noise from firearms, which, when experienced at close range, can cause noise-induced hearing loss from even a one-time exposure. It can also occur from exposure to gunfire over an extended period. The noise from firearms can reach an ear-piercing 140-170 decibels.  For these reasons, hunters and target shooters are urged to wear hearing protection. Ask any hunter who never protected his or her ears. Better Hearing Systems of NWLA LLC provides a range of custom hearing protection options to help protect your ears from loud noises. 

People exposed to constant high noise levels should be quite concerned about hearing loss. The first step in hearing improvement is to have a comprehensive hearing test to determine the extent and type of loss. Most insurances will pay for your hearing evaluation and some insurances will pay for hearing aids.  We offer payment plans to suit everyone, if hearing aids are needed. We look forward to helping you get the best results from your hearing aid experience. We offer personalized and accurate solutions for all your hearing needs. Don’t wait any longer.  Call us today at 318-747-9191 to set up your hearing appointment!!

The Importance of Annual Ear Exams

Did you know that roughly 30 million Americans experience hearing loss.  Roughly 10% of people experience tinnitus.  That is about 28 million people.  Since hearing loss usually occurs gradually, it is important to receive annual hearing tests to monitor your hearing levels.  People think to get their annual eye exams and physical checkups, but the forget about getting their ears checked.  It is recommended to get your hearing checked at least once per year, especially if you experience any of the following:

1. You ask people to repeat themselves
2. You can hear people talking, but speech sounds muffled and not clear
3. You have trouble understanding in background noise
4. You need more volume to hear on the telephone or television
5. You work or have worked around loud noises
6. You have a family history of hearing loss
7. You experience tinnitus which is ringing, buzzing, crickets, or roaring noises in your ears

So what happens when you come in for your hearing evaluation?  The process is painless and easier than you might think.  When you come into our office, a licensed audiologist will look in your ears to make sure you don’t have a wax build up or anything that is obstructing your hearing pathway.  You will get to see your ear canal on a big tv screen.  Then we will present some beeps and words to see what sounds you are hearing and what you might be missing.  We review the results with you and discuss options to fit your needs.  If you don’t have a hearing loss, we will use the results to help you monitor your hearing levels. Most insurance companies will pay for an annual hearing test and some will even pay for part of the cost of a hearing aid.  

Hearing aids have come a long way in the last few years.  Hearing aids used to be big and bulky and made background noise louder, so people did not like wearing them.  Advances in technology has made them smaller and less noticeable.  They also process sounds faster and reduce background noise such as road noise or restaurant noise so you can enjoy conversations in almost every situation again.  Hearing aids also have the ability to connect to your cellphones so you can hear over the telephone handsfree and understand what is being said on phone calls again.  Some hearing aids are rechargeable, so no more batteries to change.  Just put the hearing aids in the charger at night, and it holds a charge for 24 hours.  In short, hearing aids have lots of options to help you connect to family and the world around you.

If you or a loved one has difficulty hearing or understanding and wants to start feeling more confident and enjoying conversations again, call Better Hearing Systems of Northwest Louisiana at 318-747-9191.  We accept most insurances and we offer 12 months 0% financing plans with approved credit.  With any hearing aid purchase, you will receive a 60 day trial period to make sure you are as happy and satisfied with your purchase.  Better Hearing Systems of Northwest Louisiana provides personalized hearing healthcare you can trust.  

It’s Back to School Time - Don’t Forget Hearing Tests!

School starts soon and there’s lots to do to prepare for the upcoming year.  Clothes, supplies and books to be bought.  As preparations are made, more often than not, hearing screenings are overlooked.

Did you know that approximately five out of every 1,000 children have some sort of hearing impairment, with some cases being diagnosed between the ages of three and 17?*  A child’s ability to hear is important and plays a key role in the development of speech and language skills as they grow. 

When was your child’s hearing last tested?

While newborn hearing screening is the norm today, it’s just as important to monitor your child’s hearing as they mature.  In fact, the American Academy of Pediatrics (https://www.aap.org/), suggests children be screened:

• At school entry
• At least once at ages 6, 8 and 10
• At least once during middle school
• At least once during high school
• For any student entering a new school system without evidence of previous hearing screening

Something else to keep in mind is that as our use of technology increases, how our kids use that technology is a factor.  Monitor their use of headphones!  If you can hear it; it’s too loud.  “Listening through headphones at a high volume for extended periods of time can result in a lifelong hearing loss for children and teens,” according to James E. Foy, D.O.  Oftentimes, young people just want to turn up the volume!

Let’s help your young scholar be successful in the classroom this year!  Call Better Hearing Systems to schedule a consultation and screening today.

*CDC’s National Health Interview Survey, 1997-2005

There’s No One Quite Like Dad

Each June, one Sunday is set aside to show him how much he means to you and has influenced you and your family over the years. Some like to have large family gatherings, shower him with gifts, sit and reminisce on days gone by, and others prefer a quiet visit just one on one. He may not show it, but he is overwhelmed with feelings of love and appreciation today and it means more to him than you know.

He taught you how to change a tire, how to manage money, how to cook the perfect steak, and he shaped you probably in more ways than you even realize. You may have planned to attend a ball game today, or a day fishing at the lake, but have you helped him plan for hearing loss?

According to the National Institute on Deafness and Other Communicative Disorders (NIDCD), one third of Americans between ages 65-74 and almost half over age 75 have hearing loss. And men are twice as likely to have hearing loss than a woman. You know dads…getting them to the doctor can be a challenge!

Biological father. Adopted father. Stepfather. Father-in-law. Grandfather. There are many monikers, but DAD is just simply DAD. We all love him and want the best for him. He gave all he had to make your life as special as he could. Give back to him. Do this one small thing to show him how much he means to you, and how appreciative you are for all he’s given. Help give him the gift of hearing well again.

If you know, or suspect, the father figure in your life has hearing loss, please call for a consultation and hearing screening. The staff at Better Hearing Systems are here for you and him this Father’s Day.

May is Better Hearing and Speech Month!

Did you know that 1 in 6 U.S. adults have reported trouble hearing? Or that over 28 million adults nationwide could benefit from hearing aids?

Let’s look at several ways you can protect your ears and overall hearing health:

1. Use earplugs around loud noises – Once your hearing is damaged, it’s gone for good. That’s why raising awareness beforehand is so critical. If you’re in an environment where you must shout for the person next to you to hear, you should have earplugs in. 
2. Stop using cotton swabs – No, those swabs are not made for cleaning wax from your ear canal. Ears are self-cleaning organs, and some wax is a good thing to prevent dust and other particles from entering the canal. A wax removal solution is advised for use over the course of a few nights. The best option is always to seek a professional opinion.
3. Keep your ears dry – Excess moisture in the ear can allow bacteria to enter and attack the canal causing an ear infection. Towel dry your ears after bathing or swimming. Again, ear plugs are also a top option.
4. Take medications only as directed – Certain medications, such as non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDS) like aspirin, ibuprofen and naproxen can sometimes contribute to hearing loss. Discuss medications with your doctor if you’re concerned they’ll impact your hearing ability and take them only as directed. 
5. GET REGULAR CHECKUPS – This is the most important step you can take. Hearing loss develops gradually so an annual hearing screening with a hearing care professional is strongly recommended. You’ll be more likely to recognize signs of hearing loss and take action early on. 

If you haven’t had your hearing checkup in 2017 yet, there’s no better time than Better Hearing and Speech Month! Preserve your hearing, take good care of ears and be hearing healthy this May! You can find more information about what Untreated Hearing Loss Can Impact on our website under Blog.

TIME TO SPRING CLEAN…YOUR HEARING AIDS

Ah spring time! All things are renewed. The cold and dreary winter has subsided and all the trees and plants are in full bloom. As we come out of our hibernation, it’s time to clean, clean, CLEAN.

Most everyone will take the house, yard and car head on, digging into all the nooks and crannies and dispatching of the clutter and dirt that’s accumulated over the winter months. But what about those tiny handy devices you wear in your ears every day? Here are 3 steps to take your cleaning routine to the next level:

1.       REMOVE ALL WAX AND DIRT BUILDUP –

Daily maintenance consists of a simple soft cloth for a quick wipe down, but now is the time to make good use of that cleaning kit we supplied you with when you purchased your hearing aids. Use your brush or pick to clean every tiny opening in your device such as the microphone and vents.  If earwax is a chronic problem, you may want to ask me about wax guards.

2.       DRY THEM OUT –

My guess would be that you normally just take them out and lay them on a cloth for air drying, but this is SPRING CLEANING, so we need to take it up a notch. Using a dehumidifier made to treat hearing aids can significantly extend the life of your device and is much more effective than air drying. You can find a multitude of choices from several local store or on the internet.

3.       SCHEDULE A SERVICE CALL –

Spring is a great time to schedule a service call with me. We can look over your hearing aids and identify any maintenance needs you may have beyond your ability to take care of at home. Hearing aids that are properly cared for will last considerably longer than those that are neglected.

Just as your home, yard and car need a good SPRING CLEANING, so do your hearing aids. Please allow me to continue to provide you with our top notch service here at BETTER HEARING SYSTEMS of NORTHWEST LOUISIANA. 

Oops! I’ve Had My Hearing Aids in All Day!

Hearing aids in 2017 have gotten so small and so advanced that it’s easy to forget you even have them in after you’ve had them for a while. This is a GOOD THING!

First, there are two very good reasons not take them out.

• With loss of hearing comes the loss of processing sound. Our ears are designed to send sound signals to our brain. When that’s diminished or stopped all together, the sound processing center of our brain isn’t stimulated properly anymore. Wearing your hearing aids regularly will allow adequate stimulation and maintain our brain’s ability to process sound.
• The more you wear them, the more natural sound becomes. Hearing loss is a long and gradual process typically over many years. Sometimes it’s so faint, there are certain sounds we didn’t even realize we miss anymore. Once you are fitted for and begin using your new hearing aids, your brain basically has to be “re-trained” on how to hear sounds. This, too, takes time, but the more you keep them in the more natural running water will sound. The more normal hands clapping will be. At first, it may sound excessively loud, but you’re simply adjusting to your new world.

As far as reasons to take them out? Well…besides using loud machinery (i.e. power tools, mower) or being submerged in water (swimming or bathing), you really shouldn’t.

It’s kind of like turning on the lights after you’ve been in a dark room for a while. The light hurts yours eyes at first, but then they slowly adjust until you see clearly. The same can be said for hearing aids. The more you wear them, the more accustomed you will become to hearing all the wonderful sounds this world has to offer. 

“What Are My Ears Trying to Tell Me?”

If we listen to our bodies, they will often tell us of an imminent malady. So what do I mean by “Can my ears talk to me?” What I mean is when you have ear pain or just simple discomfort, do you stop and consider what that means to your overall health?

Did you know that an earache can be an early warning sign of heart disease? I bet you didn’t! And you would be in the majority. Most people don’t know that.

Most common in heart disease is the restriction of blood flow through arteries and vessels because of plaque buildup (commonly called atherosclerosis). The inner ear is EXTREMELY sensitive to blood flow and thus issues with hearing loss.

Professor and Vice Chair of Otolaryngology and Communication Sciences David R. Friedland, M.D., Ph.D. explains, “The inner ear is so sensitive to blood flow that it is possible that abnormalities in the cardiovascular system could be noted here earlier than in other less sensitive parts of the body.”

In fact, a study conducted by Harvard University cited a staggering relation between heart disease and hearing loss finding “hearing loss occurred 54% more often in people with heart disease then in the general population.” 

February is American Heart Month. With an average of 787,000 heart disease related deaths (that’s 1 in 3) annually in our region of the country, it is most definitely worth the time to have it checked out.

So do yourself a favor and have your heart AND your hearing checked in 2017. 

The Effects of Hearing Loss on Your Quality of Life

It’s 2017! A new year, a new you - especially with help from Better Hearing Systems of NorthWest Louisiana. When you improve your hearing, you improve your life. Approximately one out of every three Americans over the age of 65 has hearing loss to some degree and it’s important to be aware of it - especially as you age. The symptoms of hearing loss can be easy to ignore at first, until it has progressed to a level that has a noticeably negative impact on your life. Here are three ways in which hearing loss can impact your social, mental, and physical health:

Relationships & Social Health

Communication is arguably the single most important aspect of any human relationship. If you have trouble hearing, you may have trouble understanding what friends or family members are saying to you, which could harm your relationships. Hearing loss can be especially disruptive to a marriage, where solid communication is key to healthy and happy matrimony.

Mental Health

In a 2014 study, researchers from the National Institute on Deafness and Other Communication Disorders (NIDCD) found a strong link between hearing loss and depression among US adults of all ages. Past studies have linked hearing loss to general cognitive decline and an increased risk of developing memory-related issues including Alzheimer’s Disease and dementia. Thankfully, studies have also shown that wearing  hearing aids can prevent or even reverse many of these issues in individuals with hearing loss.

Physical Health

Did you know hearing aids can make a person more active? A survey performed by The Hear The World Foundation found that 21 percent of those surveyed reported that they exercised more after getting hearing aids. 34 percent said they actively participate in sports at least once per week, and 69 percent believe that their hearing aids have a favorable effect on their general health. 

If you’ve discovered hearing loss is having a negative impact on your life, don’t waste another moment! Better Hearing Systems will get you fitted with a hearing aid that will suit your needs and help improve your life. Unsure if you’re experiencing hearing loss? We also offer free hearing consultations. Call us today at 318-309-4727!

Give the Gift of Rechargeable Hearing Aids

Hearing is a something that we often take for granted until we no longer are able to do so with the clarity we once had in our youth. As you age, your hearing naturally loses sharpness.  Hearing is a special gift that allows us to connect with the world around us, when that is taken away it can cause people to feel isolated and alone. According the National Institute on Deafness and Other Communication Disorders, nearly “28.8 million U.S. adults could benefit from using hearing aids.”

Hearing aids offer those with hearing loss the ability to reconnect with the world. When you consider the biological function that this tiny device takes on, it should be revered as a technological wonder. Despite their small size, newer devices allow users to stream music and phone conversations directly, utilizing state of the art GPS technology. And while they are a scientific marvel, many devices still utilize a hearing aid battery to maintain power.

Traditional Batteries

The majority of hearing devices sold today rely on standard hearing aid batteries. Even the latest in GPS technology is normally powered with a zinc hearing aid battery which has a lifespan of up to two weeks.  When you consider the fact that this device is often being used upward of 12 hours a day, this little battery is really quite long lasting. However, replacing it every 7-14 days can get old quickly.

Rechargeable Batteries

One of the newest advancements in hearing aid technology is the advent of the rechargeable battery. Phonak, is the first hearing aid developer to offer a system that comes with a built-in lithium-ion rechargeable battery. And because the battery is built into the hearing aid, it lasts the lifetime of the unit. After 30 minutes of charging, the system can run for up to 6 hours. And, the best part is, you will never have to change a battery!

Selecting a hearing aid that is right for your needs can be overwhelming. The staff at Better Hearing Systems in Bossier City, Louisiana wants to give you or someone you love the gift of better hearing this holiday season. Contact us to schedule a free hearing consultation, discuss your options and see our full line of rechargeable hearing systems. We can help you choose the device that is just right for you.

Should You Upgrade your Hearing Aid?

Your hearing is a precious and important thing. It allows you to communicate properly and to enjoy all the beautiful sounds in everyday life. As we age our hearing naturally starts to weaken, making it difficult to discern certain tones and decibel levels. Hearing aids can provide the support needed to keep your hearing sharp throughout your life.

It is important to realize that purchasing a hearing aid is not a one-time endeavor. The average life span of a hearing device is typically between three to seven years. And, while this is a good rule of thumb as you consider when to upgrade to your device, there are other reasons you might want to think about.

• Poor performance – If your hearing aids are becoming less effective, the first step is to ensure that they are working properly. A good cleaning or minor repair might be all that is required to have them operating at peak efficiency. If this does not clear up the issue you might want to talk to your hearing specialist about other alternatives.
• Your needs are not being met – A change in your circumstances might require an upgrade in your hearing equipment. For instance, if your job role changes and necessitates more time on the phone you might want to consider an upgrade to more finely tuned equipment. New technology allows hearing aids to sync with mobile devices offering a clearer phone experience.
• Change in hearing – Just because you have a hearing device does not mean that your hearing will not change. If you find that your current hearing aids are no longer sufficient for normal hearing, you might need to upgrade to a more specialized device.
• Change in technology – Just as other areas of technology are rapidly changing, so too is hearing technology. Smaller units, the capacity to synch with other devices, finer tuning abilities and even wireless options are making hearing aids more state-of-the-art.

Finding just the right hearing device for your needs requires the help of a trusted hearing professional who can assist you in wading through all the options. If you or someone you know is considering upgrading their hearing device, contact the professionals at Better Hearing Systems of Northwest Louisiana.  Their staff in Bossier City will guide you through all the important steps required to help improve your hearing. 

Should You Upgrade your Hearing Aid?

Your hearing is a precious and important thing. It allows you to communicate properly and to enjoy all the beautiful sounds in everyday life. As we age our hearing naturally starts to weaken, making it difficult to discern certain tones and decibel levels. Hearing aids can provide the support needed to keep your hearing sharp throughout your life.

It is important to realize that purchasing a hearing aid is not a one-time endeavor. The average life span of a hearing device is typically between three to seven years. And, while this is a good rule of thumb as you consider when to upgrade to your device, there are other reasons you might want to think about.

• Poor performance – If your hearing aids are becoming less effective, the first step is to ensure that they are working properly. A good cleaning or minor repair might be all that is required to have them operating at peak efficiency. If this does not clear up the issue you might want to talk to your hearing specialist about other alternatives.
• Your needs are not being met – A change in your circumstances might require an upgrade in your hearing equipment. For instance, if your job role changes and necessitates more time on the phone you might want to consider an upgrade to more finely tuned equipment. New technology allows hearing aids to sync with mobile devices offering a clearer phone experience.
• Change in hearing – Just because you have a hearing device does not mean that your hearing will not change. If you find that your current hearing aids are no longer sufficient for normal hearing, you might need to upgrade to a more specialized device.
• Change in technology – Just as other areas of technology are rapidly changing, so too is hearing technology. Smaller units, the capacity to synch with other devices, finer tuning abilities and even wireless options are making hearing aids more state-of-the-art.

Finding just the right hearing device for your needs requires the help of a trusted hearing professional who can assist you in wading through all the options. If you or someone you know is considering upgrading their hearing device, contact the professionals at Better Hearing Systems of Northwest Louisiana.  Their staff in Bossier City will guide you through all the important steps required to help improve your hearing. 

Smart Hearing Aids Are Changing the Hearing Industry

If you suffer from hearing loss, now is the time to invest in the latest technology for hearing aids. Like a flip phone’s revolution to a sleek smartphone, hearing aids are making leaps and bounds in the technology of hearing assistance. Did you know that smart hearing aid technology has hit the market and it is now possible to connect a smart hearing aid with your Android or iPhone?

New hearing aid technology can make a huge difference in anyone’s life. For example, Daymond John, star of the reality TV show Shark Tank, states that he listened to loud music in his early years and is now suffering from a hearing disability at age 43. Luckily, technological advancements in hearing aids have improved his daily life. In his interview with CNNMoney, Daymond John says, “You think of your grandparents wearing hearing aids – not me… But I’m talking to you through my hearing aids ... and you’d never really know I’m wearing something.”

Daymond John uses advanced hearing aids from Starkey Hearing Technologies that work with iOS devices to stream calls and listen to music all through his earpieces. John didn’t realize he had a real hearing problem until he went to a Starkey Hearing Foundation event and tried on a hearing device. He says, “… at the event, they invited everyone to try on a hearing device, and it was like night and day. I was suffering from tinnitus in one ear and something else was going on in the other.”

Like Daymond John, we see advancements from Starkey Hearing Technologies as the future of hearing aids. Starkey Hearing Technologies places an importance on research, science and innovative technology when creating cutting-edge hearing solutions. Better Hearing Systems of NorthWest Louisiana is proud to offer Starkey Hearing products including Muse and Halo 2. If you would like to schedule a FREE demonstration of the latest hearing aid technology, contact Better Hearing Systems today!

The Starkey Hearing Foundation

Better Hearing Systems of Northwest Louisiana is a proud supporter of the Starkey Hearing Foundation, a charitable organization that brings the gift of hearing to people in need. According to the World Health Organization, more than 360 million people have disabling hearing loss, but less than 3% of those affected can afford hearing aids or have access to the care they need (source). The Starkey Hearing Foundation has given more than 1.8 million hearing aids around the world and have provided over 200,000 free hearing aids and care to people in need annually for over thirty years!

Starkey works to accomplish their hearing missions by building strong partnerships, empowering local teams, and expanding their Community-Based Hearing HealthCare Model, which consists of three phases:

1.    Patient Identification - Includes identifying and training partners and community-based health workers, providing primary ear-care services to potential hearing aid candidates, taking ear impressions, and creating custom earmolds.

2.    Hearing Mission - Fit hearing aids and custom earmolds on qualified hearing candidates, counsel and train hearing aid recipients, teachers, student ambassadors, and patients on how to care for and operate the hearing aids, and select and train local program teams to execute ongoing program activities.

3.    AfterCare Program - Conduct outreach to patients within the first month of receiving their hearing aids to provide AfterCare, provide ongoing AfterCare services to offer patients counseling, batteries, and free services to repair or replace hearing aids when needed.

As proud members of the Starkey Hearing Alliance, Better Hearing Systems of Northwest Louisiana is part of a national network of hearing care professionals that are leading the way in helping people experience healthier lives. Starkey Hearing Alliance Members specialize in fitting Starkey Technologies hearing instruments.  These state-of-the-art hearing aids ensure you are receiving superior comfort, unmatched technology and best-in-class features. When you get a hearing aid from Better Hearing Systems of NWLA, you're not only changing your life for the better, but in some small way you’re also helping improve the lives of millions of people in need. To learn more about the Starkey Hearing Foundation or to donate to this wonderful cause, click here.

You're Invited to a Special Event at Better Hearing Systems!

Better Hearing Systems is proud to announce a special in-office event from July 19th-21st. For 3 days only, come into the office for a free exam, free hearing consultation, special discounts, promotions and more! Nationally-known hearing aid expert, Amanda Barnhart, will also be in the office to demonstrate Muse, a new development in hearing technology.

Stop in for:

• Free hearing consultation
• Free otoscopic examination
• A demonstration of the new MUSE hearing aids by special guest Amanda Barnhart. Muse is a line of wireless hearing aids that deliver ultra-high definition audio and superior sound quality--come and see what they can do!
• Free clean and check for current hearing instruments wearers
• Significant discounts on a pair of Advanced Digital Technology

Take advantage of the latest hearing science and cutting-edge digital technology with this summer event!

Do you...

Have trouble hearing in noise?

Need to turn your TV up loud to hear it?

Frequently ask people to repeat themselves?

Have a family history of hearing loss?

Have had a history of exposure to prolonged or loud noise?

If you answered yes to any of these questions, now is the time to come see us! Hearing loss affects 1 in 10 Americans. Yet, only 1 in 5 people who could benefit from hearing aids actually wears them. Improving the ability to hear translates to a higher quality of life, and a healthier social lifestyle. Visit Better Hearing System’s information section to learn more, and to take an online hearing test and hearing loss simulator. You deserve the best care for your hearing. No matter your level of hearing loss or lifestyle, we have a hearing aid for you!  

Please RSVP to this one-time, special summer event by calling (318) 402-4693 today!

At Better Hearing Systems of Northwest Louisiana, we are committed to comprehensive hearing care through state-of-the-art testing and fitting equipment. To learn more about Better Hearing Systems, located in Bossier City, visit our website or call (318) 309-4727 today to schedule a free hearing consultation!

Protect Your Hearing During The Summer Months

Summer brings lots of celebrations--and with celebrations, come noise! Whether it’s Fourth of July fireworks, live music concerts, street parades with fire engines showing off their horns and sirens, motorcycling, or even simply using a power mower and leaf-blower in the yard, the sounds of summer can be loud. There is a connection between noise exposure and hearing loss, so please take a few simple steps to protect your hearing this summer.


The link between noise and hearing loss: 

Sound travels down the ear canal in waves. Loud noises can cause waves so forceful that they dislodge the tiny bones in the middle ear. If the waves pass through the middle ear and reach the inner ear, they can damage the tiny hair cells that carry sound all the way to the brain, where the sounds are interpreted. Unfortunately, once destroyed, these hair cells can’t repair themselves, and can no longer pass sounds along to the brain--resulting in permanent damage.

Noise levels are measured in decibels. Any sound over 85 decibels can result in hearing loss. For example, a passing motorcycle is roughly 90 decibels, and a firework exploding at close range is around 150 decibels. Noise-induced hearing loss (NIHL) can result from how loud the noise is, as well as the length of a person’s exposure to noise.

Noise-induced hearing loss can affect anyone, at any age. Children have a lower threshold for noise than adults, so it is even more important to protect their hearing during summer activities like watching fireworks or attending a festival with loud music.  

Types of hearing loss due to noise exposure:

There are three types of hearing loss that may result from noise exposure.

• Tinnitus: a temporary ringing or buzzing in the ears after exposure. Tinnitus sometimes, but not always, goes away by itself.
• Temporary changes in threshold: A small decrease in hearing that disappears, usually approximately 24-48 hours after the exposure occurs. Although the hearing distortion goes away, evidence suggests there may be long-term hearing damage.
• Permanent hearing damage: Unfortunately, the most severe noise damage can result in irreversible hearing loss, often from a ruptured eardrum or trauma to the delicate bones of the middle ear.

Tips to protect hearing:

• Stand as far away as possible from the source of the noise. For example, the further away you stand from exploding fireworks, the less trauma to the ears.
• If standing far away isn’t practical, or if the noise is loud even from afar, use earplugs or noise-cancelling headphones to muffle the sound. 
• Shorten the length of time exposed to loud noise. 
• Keep children away from loud noise caused by lawn mowers, fireworks, firearms, lawn and farm machinery, stereo speakers, and concerts. 

If you or a loved one has experienced hearing loss after noise exposure, it is a good idea to schedule a hearing test with a qualified audiologist. The audiologist will help determine if the change in hearing is temporary or permanent.

At Better Hearing Systems of Northwest Louisiana, we offer comprehensive hearing tests for adults and school-aged children, as well as video otoscopy for detailed viewing of the ear canal. Visit our website to learn more, or call (318) 309-4727 to schedule your free hearing consultation.

The Effects of Hearing Loss on Brain Function

Recent studies have found that the effects of hearing loss go beyond daily frustration, social isolation, and the inability to distinguish speech or enjoy music. Hearing loss is also linked to a decline in cognition and an increased risk of dementia. June is Alzheimer’s and Brain Awareness Month, so now is the perfect time to turn some attention to the effects of good hearing on brain health.

Neuroplasticity: The link between hearing loss and cognitive decline  

We tend to think of hearing as something we do with our ears, but it is actually the brain that processes the sounds we hear. Our ears carry electrical signals to the brain, which then turn those signals into sounds we recognize. When we experience hearing loss, the area of our brain that interprets those electrical signals becomes underused, and begins to decline.

Previously, it was believed that our brains remained mostly unchanged throughout our adult lives. We now know, however, that the brain reorganizes itself when it needs to adapt, a phenomenon known as neuroplasticity. This reorganization begins even in the early stages of hearing loss, where other areas of the brain that are responsible for higher cognitive function attempt to compensate for the loss of hearing. In the elderly adult, especially, this overworks areas of the brain needed for high-level functioning, which may explain why hearing loss is so closely correlated with dementia.   

Early Intervention: Protecting brain function

The National Institute on Deafness and Other Communication Disorders estimates that one-third of adults aged 65-74, and nearly one-half of those over 75, have trouble hearing. Although we tend to think of hearing loss affecting primarily older adults, hearing loss can occur at any age, with 65% of people with hearing loss being below retirement age. Yet, less than 25% of those who need hearing aids get them right away, waiting an average of 7 years, in which time preventative cognitive decline may be occurring.

If you believe you or a loved one are experiencing hearing loss, schedule a hearing test with a licensed audiologist. Early intervention can help preserve cognitive function and lower the risk of dementia.       

At Better Hearing Systems of Northwest Louisiana, we are committed to comprehensive hearing care through state-of-the-art testing and fitting equipment. We offer cutting-edge hearing aids, hearing devices, and premium hearing accessories. To learn more about what Better Hearing Systems can do for you, visit our website or call (318) 309-4727 today to schedule a free hearing consultation.

What Is Tinnitus?

The National Institute on Deafness and Other Communication Disorders claims that roughly 10 percent of the adult population has experienced tinnitus lasting at least five minutes in the past year.  Tinnitus is not a disease but rather an auditory condition in which there is ringing or buzzing in the ears.  Although it is typically a ringing sound, tinnitus can also be hissing, clicking or whistling.  It may be soft or loud, high pitched or low pitched, depending on external sounds.

The noises we expose ourselves to everyday can have an effect on our hearing if they are too loud.  Both loud and long-lasting noises can damage sensitive structures in the inner ear and cause noise-induced hearing loss.  Because tinnitus originates in the inner ear, it often damages the sensory hair cells that are vital for hearing and balance.

One of the easiest ways to prevent tinnitus is avoiding excessive noise exposure.  A great way to lessen your risk is defending your ears with hearing protection like earplugs.  While you are in loud environments like concerts or health clubs, position yourself as far away from the source of sound as possible.  If you are listening to music with ear buds or headphones, adjust the volume to a low level.  The most important step you can take for your hearing is to make sure you limit your time in noisy environments and keep the volume down.

If you are experiencing ringing, buzzing, hissing or whistling in your ears, you may be suffering from tinnitus.  There is no cure for tinnitus but treatment options are available to help people cope with the condition.  If you are in need of tinnitus treatment, contact Better Heating Systems for a consultation.  We offer both counseling and state-of-the-art hearing instruments that will help you cope with tinnitus.

To set up your appointment with Better Hearing Systems, give us a call at (318) 309-4727 and let us help you get back to your daily life!