5 Interesting Facts About Hearing Aids

For many individuals, thinking about hearing aids typically conjures an image of the bulky behind-the-ear model their grandfather wore. These older devices are now a relic of the past, replaced by sleek new digital hearing aids. Devices are now smaller and more powerful than ever. The following list highlights some of the enhancements that have been made in recent years, as well as other surprising facts you may not know.

1.      Wearing hearing aids can be beneficial to your mental health. The use of hearing aids can help prevent cognitive decline. When left untreated, hearing loss can lead to depression, withdrawal and anxiety.

2.      Devices can go unseen. Some manufacturers have created implantable listening devices. These hearing aids are inserted into your ear canal, making them completely invisible! Even the more traditional styles have become nearly impossible to see.

3.      Water might not damage your devices. The hearing aid industry has developed waterproof and water resistant models to accommodate those who enjoy water-based activities. Accessories like dehumidifiers and hearing aid dryers are also helpful, as they can remove unwanted moisture from your devices and increase their lifespan.

4.      Bluetooth technology makes your hearing aid compatible. Most of the advanced hearing devices are now able to use Bluetooth to sync with your cell phones, music players and other external devices. This makes activities like speaking on the phone or listening to music easier than ever before.

5.      Devices can adapt to your surroundings. The days of over-amplified background noise are in the past. Multidirectional microphones are able to detect important sounds, such as voices. Additionally, you can program multiple settings to accommodate different environments.

Hearing aids are more advanced now than ever before. With so many options available, those suffering from a hearing impairment are able to find hearing aids suited to their specific needs. To learn more about the latest technology, treatments or hearing aid prices, schedule a consultation with your local Carlsbad audiologist or contact our office at (858) 909-0770.

Seasonal Allergies May Interfere with Education

As the summer comes to a close, many of us are readying ourselves for another academic year. Whether you’re a parent getting your kids ready or attending school yourself, you want to feel prepared. There are so many factors to consider before starting a new schoolyear, but have you thought about how you might be affected by seasonal allergies?

Seasonal allergies affect as many as 40% of youth in the United States. Though the height of San Diego’s allergy season is the spring, seasonal allergies can effect individuals differently throughout the year. This is especially true for those who are being introduced to a new environment for the first time.

Allergies occur when an allergen such as pollens, dust mite, molds, or danders are recognized as a threat. Though these substances are typically harmless, the immune system initiates a hypersensitive response in an attempt to eliminate the allergen from your system. This manifests in the following symptoms:

• Sneezing
• Running nose/post-nasal drip
• Wheezing
• Coughing
• Irritation of the skin, eyes, nose, lungs, throat or sinuses
• Watery eyes

Everyday, approximately 10,000 US students stay home from school due to these symptoms. These symptoms may occur at anytime of the year, and students may have a higher risk of exposure to news allergens. This is especially relevant if students attend field trips or have recently relocated to the area. If this is true for yourself or a loved one, you would likely benefit from allergy testing. Allergy testing can be completed at the office of your local ear, nose and throat doctor. There, an ENT specialist will administer either a skin prick test or blood test in order to determine your reaction to various allergens.

If an allergic reaction is detected, your doctor will assist you in managing or eliminating your symptoms. Located in San Diego, our clinic utilizes the latest advancements in the industry to develop a personalized treatment plan. Allergy treatments include medication, non-pharmacologic therapy and immunotherapy.

When left untreated, allergies can create a fog over your daily activities and place additional strain on academic endeavors. By taking charge of seasonal allergies, you can ensure these symptoms don’t interfere with school performance. To learn more about seasonal allergies, we welcome you to contact us at (858) 909-0770.