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Myth Busting

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There are many hearing myths regarding our ears. Here at Medico Audiology Services, we aim to dispel those myths in order to provide the best possible care for our patients. Here are some myths around hearing loss, and the usage of hearing aids that we will clear up today.

Firstly, while it is true that hearing loss can increase with age, it does not mean that it is ‘normal’, or something that we should simply ‘put up with’. Hearing loss can happen at any age, for a number of reasons, and should never be something we just accept. It can be something as simple as a wax build up which can be removed in minutes, it could be a build-up of fluid in the middle ear which an Ear Nose and Throat consultant can help with or it could be a sensorineural hearing loss due to the hearing organ which a hearing aid can help with.

If you find it hard to see, or read, you know the strain that can have on your concentration, motivation, and overall wellbeing. Straining to hear is no different. Studies have proven that fatigue, migraines, loneliness, and not wanting to socialise can be linked to the decline in hearing. In 2020 the Lancet Public Health Journal published a study which focused on data collected from 437,704 people over the course of 12 years. Participants who took part were 56 when the study started, and 68 when it concluded. The study concluded that, 8% of dementia cases worldwide may be linked to hearing loss. While there was no increased risk for people with standard hearing, or people who have hearing loss, and use hearing aids; there was a 42% risk of all-cause dementia in people with hearing loss who do not use hearing aids.

Experts predict that, globally, the number of people who will be living with dementia will nearly triple what it is today. By 2050, they predict that there will be 153 million people living with dementia. If something as simple as maintaining ear health, and using aids as soon as is medically necessary can potentially reduce the risk of developing dementia, then it is more important than ever to dispel the myths of hearing loss, and maintain good ear health.

If your eye sight was affecting you like this way, you wouldn’t think twice about wearing glasses. Why do we deny ourselves the freedom of hearing whether it be wax removal, seeing a specialist or wearing hearing aids, when we have no problem benefiting from the freedom of glasses?

Here at Medico we offer microsuction wax removal, baby and adult hearing tests and hearing aids from various manufacturers because we are independent. We offer demo hearing aids and fit all of our hearing aids using real ear measurements which follows best practice.  We are all master’s trained Clinical Audiologists with over 30 years of combined experience in 4 continents. Get in touch today to Hear Now and Hear Happy.

Promising new research explores the potential link between untreated hearing loss, and dementia

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There is an promising development that was published in the Lancet Public Health Journal, which links dementia to hearing loss. This study comes in the wake of an article published in 2020 which the Lancet Commission on dementia prevention, intervention, and care, suggested that 8% of dementia cases worldwide may be linked to hearing loss. 

Over a span of 12 years researchers looked at data from 437,704 people taking part in the UK Biobank study. The average age of participants when the study commenced was 56, and was 68 when the study concluded.
The research showed while there was no increase risk in people with normal hearing, and people with hearing loss who used hearing aids, there was a 42% risk of all-cause dementia, in people with hearing loss who do not use hearing aids.
Experts have predicted that, globally, the number of people living with dementia by 2050 will be nearly triple what it today to 153 million. This makes dementia on of the biggest global health threats. According to the study, people who suffer hearing loss, and use hearing aids can reduce their chances of developing dementia to that of the general population.

While more insight is needed, hearing loss could be most easily managed risk factor in preventing mid-life dementia. While further research will need to be done, we also need to raise awareness to the potential of untreated hearing loss, and the increased risk of dementia. There also needs to be improvement in the access of prevention care, lowering the cost of hearing aids, and providing treatment for all members of society.

Professor of Old Age Psychiatry at University College London, Robert Howard, has been quoted as saying, “This is a large and well-conducted study, but we should always remember that association is not the same as causation. I’m sceptical that use of hearing aids can be considered to prevent dementia. It seems more plausible to me that the association reflects that individuals on their way to developing dementia struggle to take up or use hearing aids. But hearing aids are important in reducing isolation and increasing quality of life, so we should encourage their use anyway.”

Regardless, this research provides a deeper, and interesting insight into the cause, development of, and possible risk factors associated with hearing loss, and dementia.

Unlocking Better Hearing Health: A Guide From Medico Audiology Services

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Hearing is one of the most important senses we have, yet it’s often taken for granted. Hearing health is essential for everyone, regardless of age, and it’s important to take steps to ensure that we are taking care of our ears. Medico Audiology Services provides a comprehensive guide to unlocking better hearing health and understanding how to protect your ears.

Having your hearing checked regularly is a key part of maintaining your hearing health. Regular hearing tests allow a professional to monitor your hearing, identify any changes and provide appropriate treatment. It is important to have your hearing tested by a qualified audiologist, as they will have the experience and expertise to accurately assess your hearing ability.

Protect Your Ears From Damage

Good hearing health begins with prevention. Simple lifestyle changes can help protect your ears from damage. Wearing earplugs when exposed to loud noises, such as live music or fireworks, is a good way to protect your hearing. Avoiding prolonged exposure to loud noises is also important. If you work in a noisy environment, make sure to take regular breaks away from the noise and use ear protection when necessary.

Hearing Loss Is A Part Of Life

it’s important to understand how to manage it. Knowing what symptoms to look out for is vital, as early diagnosis is key to successful treatment. Common signs of hearing loss include difficulty understanding speech, increased difficulty hearing in noisy environments, ringing in the ears, and feeling like the volume around you is decreased. If you suspect you may be suffering from hearing loss, it’s important to see a professional as soon as possible.

Help Improve Hearing Health

The good news is that there are a range of treatment options available to help improve hearing health. Depending on the severity of the hearing loss, hearing aids may be recommended. Hearing aids are small, discrete devices that are worn in the ear and behind the ear, designed to amplify sound. They can significantly improve hearing, and many people find them to be a game-changer.

In addition to the use of hearing aids, assistive listening devices are also available. These devices are designed to help people with hearing loss in certain situations. For instance, an assistive listening device can be used in noisy environments, such as restaurants, to help you hear more clearly.

Tips For Better Hearing Health

Schedule Regular Hearing Tests:

Make sure to get a regular hearing test to ensure that your hearing is up to date and that any issues are addressed quickly.

Wear Hearing Protection:

Whether you’re working in a noisy environment or just out and about, it’s important to wear a hearing aid cork protection to reduce the amount of sound that enters your ears.

Turn Down The Volume:

Listening to music, movies, and other audio at high volumes can cause hearing loss over time. So, if you’re using headphones or speakers, make sure to keep the volume low.

Stay Hydrated:

Dehydration can cause temporary hearing loss, so make sure to drink enough water throughout the day.

Avoid Loud Noises:

Loud noises can cause permanent damage to your hearing, so try to avoid them whenever possible.

Avoid Medications That Can Affect Hearing:

Some medications can cause temporary or permanent hearing loss, so make sure to discuss any concerns with your doctor.

Give Your Ears A Break:

If you’re in a noisy environment, give your ears a break periodically by moving to a quieter area.

At Medico Audiology Services

We understand how important it is to look after your hearing health. That’s why we provide a comprehensive guide to unlocking better hearing health, with advice on how to protect your ears, how to spot the signs of hearing loss, and what treatment options are available. Our team of experienced *audiologists* is here to help you achieve the best hearing health possible, so don’t hesitate to contact us for more information.

Choosing The Right Audiologist: Tips For Finding The Best Hearing Care Provider For You

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Introduction

The ability to communicate and engage with the world around us depends on our ability to hear. However, hearing loss can affect people of all ages, and it can be caused by various factors, including genetics, exposure to loud noises, infections, and aging. Fortunately, Clinical Audiologists can help diagnose and treat hearing loss. In this blog post, we’ll discuss how to choose the right audiologist for you.

What Is An Audiologist?

The term “audiologist” refers to a healthcare professional with knowledge in evaluating, diagnosing, and treating hearing and balance issues. They have an MSc degree with clinical competence training. In Ireland, there are Clinical Audiologists and Hearing Aid Dispensers sometimes known as Hearing Aid Audiologists. A Clinical Audiologist or Clinical Scientist will have an undergraduate degree and a Master’s in Audiology with 1-3 years of clinical training. After this, they will specialize in adults, pediatrics, balance, and tinnitus, or at least 1 of them. A Hearing Aid Dispenser or Hearing Aid Audiologist can have 1 month-2 to or years of training depending on how they qualify. This allows the testing and fitting of hearing aid only. There is no training in diagnostic audiology, pediatrics, tinnitus, and balance clinics. Clinical Audiologists work with patients of all ages, from infants to seniors, and they provide a wide range of services, including hearing tests Cork, hearing aid fittings, cochlear implants, and balance testing.

Audiologist

What Does An Audiologist Do?

Hospitals, clinics, private offices, and educational institutions are just a few of the places where audiologists work. They use specialized equipment to evaluate a patient’s hearing ability and diagnose any hearing or balance disorders. They also work with patients to develop individualized treatment plans, which may include hearing aids, cochlear implants, or other assistive devices. Additionally, they provide counseling and education to help patients and their families understand their hearing loss and tinnitus and how to manage it.

Why You Need An Audiologist?

Hearing loss can have a significant impact on your quality of life, affecting your ability to communicate, socialize, and even work. Ignoring hearing loss can lead to further damage and can even increase your risk of developing other health problems, such as depression and cognitive decline. That’s why it’s essential to seek the help of an audiologist if you suspect you have hearing loss. An audiologist can help you determine the cause of your hearing loss, develop a treatment plan that’s tailored to your needs, and provide ongoing support and education to help you manage your hearing loss.

Audiologist Service

How To Choose The Right Audiologist?

Choosing the right audiologist can make all the difference in your hearing healthcare journey. Here are some tips to help you find the best hearing care provider for you.

Look For Credentials: Make sure the Clinical Audiologist has an MSc in Audiology with clinical training of at least 1 year.

Check For Experience: Look for an audiologist who has at least 5+ years of experience working with patients with hearing loss. Ask about their areas of expertise and the types of patients they typically work with. Make sure real ear measurements are done when any hearing aid is being fitted which is best practice and measures the sound pressure level at the ear drum.

Consider Location: Choose an audiologist who is conveniently located for you, whether that’s close to your home or your workplace. If one does not consider credentials and experience. You are better off traveling to an audiologist who can fit your hearing aids well or do full diagnostics if this is what your Ear Nose and Throat surgeon requires.

Check For Insurance Coverage: Make sure the audiologist you choose is on Laya and VHI’s list.

Ask For Referrals: Ask your primary care doctor, family members, or friends for recommendations. To obtain a sense of what other patients have experienced, you may also read internet reviews.

FAQ

Why Would You See An Audiologist?

There Are Many Reasons Why Someone Might See An Audiologist. Some Common Reasons Include:

Hearing Loss: An audiologist can diagnose and treat hearing loss through tests and recommend hearing aids as needed.

Tinnitus: If you’re experiencing ringing, buzzing, or other sounds in your ears, an audiologist can help determine the underlying cause and recommend treatments to manage the symptoms.

Balance Issues: An audiologist can diagnose and treat balance problems through tests and recommendations.

Ear Infections Or Injuries: If you’ve recently had an ear infection or injury, an audiologist can perform tests to assess the extent of the damage and recommend appropriate treatments.

Speech and language development: Audiologists can also work with infants and children to assess and manage speech and language development issues.

Is An Audiologist For Tinnitus?

Yes, an audiologist can help with tinnitus. Tinnitus is often associated with hearing loss, and also it can perform tests to determine the underlying cause and recommend appropriate treatments. This may include hearing aids, sound therapy, or other interventions to manage the symptoms of tinnitus. An audiologist can also provide counseling and support to help patients cope with the emotional impact of tinnitus.

How Long Does It Take To Become An Audiologist In Ireland?

In Ireland, a clinical audiologist needs a bachelor’s degree in audiology or related field and a master’s degree. This typically takes 5-7 years of full-time study, depending on the program and whether or not you complete any additional clinical training. Supervised clinical practice may be required after education before working independently as an expert. Then you can specialize in multiple areas over time.

Conclusion

Choosing the right audiologist is crucial to managing your hearing loss effectively. With the right Audiologist Cork, you can receive the care and support you need to improve your hearing and enhance your quality of life. By following these tips, you can find the best hearing care provider for you.

Taking your child to the Audiologist

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Every baby born in a hospital has their hearing checked before both parent and baby are discharged from the hospital. Routine check-ups with a professional audiologist should be part of your child’s health maintenance as your child grows. Here are some tips for preparing and taking your young child to the audiologist.

Touch & Talk About Their Ears

With a young child, you want to get them used to having their ears touched and looked at. One way to do this is to form the habit of gently touching and wiggling their ears. Make it a loving, positive experience for your child. Encourage questions and even let them do the same wiggles to your ears.

Even though audiologists are trained to make young children’s early test experiences comfortable and painless, your child may become stressed because a stranger is touching and peering into their ears with an instrument.

Prepare Your Child for an Ear Examination

Before the appointment, talk to your child about the appointment and what the audiologist will do during the exam.

Play ear doctor at home. First, you play the doctor and investigate your toddler’s ears using a small magnifying glass or a small flashlight to investigate your child’s ears.

Some exams will require your child to listen to sounds. Practice putting headphones on your child and taking them off. Practice teaching your toddler active listening by playing a sound awareness game. For instance, if you are outdoors and a bird chirps, ask, “What’s that?” Or if your child drops a toy on the floor and it makes a sound. Again ask, “What’s that?” This game encourages more focused listening.

Use these suggestions or be creative and devise your own hearing games to prepare your young child for a hearing exam. You know your child best and what they will positively respond to. If you are willing to take the time, you can prepare your child to have a positive, stress-free examination by the audiologist.

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