Your hearing difficulties could be caused by damaged hearing hair cells inside your inner ear (cochlea). When damage occurs in the high-frequency areas of the cochlea, speech may sound garbled and comprehension may become difficult.

Signs of hearing loss include feeling tired and irritable after long conversations, difficulty hearing amidst background noise, a need to turn up the volume on your television or radio.

The short answer is yes, hearing loss can be hereditary. You can develop hearing loss from unsafe exposure to noise and as a result of aging, but there are genetic factors that make some more prone to hearing loss than others. In fact, there are over 400 genetic causes for hearing loss!

One of the best ways to prevent infections in general is to practice proper hygiene. Some viruses that can cause ear infections are transmitted through bodily fluids that we’re exposed to through coughs sneezes, and germs on surfaces. In addition to practicing proper hygiene, vaccines can make one’s body immune to certain viruses that cause ear infections. Finally, avoid sticking cotton swabs inside your ears to prevent inner ear damage that increases your risk of infection.

Avoid listening to music through headphones for more than 60 minutes a day, never use music players at more than 60% of the maximum volume, use over the ear headphones and avoid listening through your earphones in loud environments.

Hearing aids generally cost $999-$1200 per aid, but this price can vary based on the needs of the client. HearingLife has payment plans to improve the affordability of hearing aids and there are other government programs available that can further reduce the cost.

RITE hearing aids rest discreetly behind the ear and are best suited for those who have mild to severe hearing loss. IIC hearing aids rest deep in the ear canal and are best suited for those who have mild to moderate hearing loss.

Each hearing aid is uniquely fitted to match an individual’s hearing loss and hearing needs. The fitting process usually takes place about two weeks after the initial assessment. During this fitting appointment, your hearing aid will be programmed using computer software and customized to fit your exact hearing levels.

Hearing aids can definitely help someone feel more balanced if they suffer from vertigo or asymmetrical hearing loss (degree or configuration of hearing loss is different in each ear.) If someone is suffering from vertigo, we recommend they come in for a full audiometric assessment.

We work closely with hearing aid manufacturers and can submit your hearing aids to them for repairs. We do clean and checks in clinic, but the manufacturer repairs the hearing aid.

Expect to be asked questions about your hearing difficulties and health history in general. This allows us to better understand your specific lifestyle needs and goals. Your ears will be looked into with an otoscope and your hearing will be tested in a non-invasive or painful way. Based on your results, we will make recommendations for treatment if necessary.

Any noise that exceeds 85dBA can harm your hearing. This harm can occur due to consistent exposure or instantly depending on how loud the noise is.

Tinnitus has commonly been described as a ringing in the ear, though the sounds resulting from tinnitus could also be described as a hissing, clicking, whistling or whirring. Those with tinnitus may experience a reduced ability to concentrate, a hypersensitivity to sound, and they may also experience depression and fatigue. In some instances, tinnitus can affect your social life as well.

Tinnitus can affect your hearing test by making it harder for you to identify certain words and pitches associated with the test, but the good news is that hearing professionals are trained to administer tests to those who have tinnitus.

HearingLife encourages anyone who suspects they have a hearing loss to get a hearing test. Those over 60 should get their hearing checked annually as hearing loss affects those 60 years of age and older the most.