HEARING HEALTH Q&A WITH JILLIAN PRICE
Jillian Price, Chief Audiologist of ListenUP! Canada, HearingLife Canada and National Affiliated Partners answers the commonly asked hearing health questions. Q A What Are the Signs of Hearing Loss? One of the tell-tale signs of hearing loss is an inability to hear soft speech or regular speech in a noisy environment. This usually leads to people frequently asking others to repeat themselves. Another sign of hearing loss is a need to turn up the volume, on the television or radio for example, to levels that are disruptively high for others. You may also notice that you can’t hear the doorbell or telephone, maybe you can’t even hear the morning or fire alarm. A less obvious sign is the irritation or fatigue you may feel after long conversations.
Q Is Hearing Loss Hereditary?
A 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!
Q How Can I Prevent Infections that Can Cause Hearing Loss?
A 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. You should wash your hands often and avoid getting too close to people experiencing flu-like symptoms. Some vaccines can guard against viruses that cause ear infections as well, but be sure to consult your doctor before taking any. Finally, avoid sticking cotton swabs inside your ears! If they reach too far in, they can cause ear damage and increase your risk of infection.
Q How Can I Encourage My Loved One to Get a Hearing Test?
A One way is to make hearing testing a group event. Those with hearing loss are less likely to feel singled out if they are accompanied by others who are also going to take the test. Also, having someone by your side during a hearing test can provide some much needed support!
Q When Should I Get My Hearing Tested and How Often?
A I would recommend getting a baseline hearing test no matter your age, but if you are 60 years of age or older, you should be testing your hearing annually as 47% of Canadians over the age of 60 have some degree of hearing loss. Hearing loss has been linked to depression and social isolation among other negative states. The sooner you get your hearing tested, the sooner you can treat your hearing loss and avoid the negative situations associated with it. In general, if you suspect you have hearing loss, you should get your hearing tested no matter your age.
Q How Loud is too Loud?
A The potential for hearing loss is a combination of the decibel level and time. For example, hearing damage can occur in eight hours with prolonged exposure to noise at around 85 decibels. Hearing damage can occur in 15 minutes with exposure to noise at 100 decibels and you can reach these noise levels with a music player. Then there are other sounds like those at a rock concert or a gunshot that pose an immediate danger to hearing. The key is to wear noise protection whenever possible and avoid prolonged exposure to any sound over 85 decibels.