Category: Hearing Health

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.

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