4-bridges-audiology

Considering a Cochlear Implant? Read This First.

Thu, 22 Jan 2026 14:03:16 GMT

So, you’re thinking about a cochlear implant. Maybe you’ve noticed your hearing aids aren’t helping the way they used to, or perhaps your audiologist has brought up the idea in a previous appointment. No matter how you got here, you’re likely wondering… what happens next?

Let’s walk through the process step-by-step so you know exactly what to expect.

Start by Knowing Your Options

When you begin researching cochlear implants, one of the first things you’ll learn is that there are three major manufacturers:

Cochlear

Advanced Bionics

Med-EL

Each company takes a slightly different approach to restoring hearing and offers unique features, accessories, and technological benefits. Choosing the right one depends on your lifestyle, preferences, and communication needs.

One important note: Before you get your heart set on a specific device, make sure there are audiologists in your area who work with that manufacturer. Not every clinic works with all three.

Here at 4 Bridges Audiology, we partner with all three manufacturers, so our patients have full freedom to choose the device that feels right for them.

Step 1: An Updated Hearing Test

The first official step in the cochlear implant journey is an updated diagnostic hearing test. This determines whether you meet the general criteria for a cochlear implant evaluation.

Typical qualifications include:

Pure-tone averages of 60 dB or poorer
Speech recognition scores of 60% or worse

Your audiologist will guide you through these measurements and confirm whether it's appropriate to move forward.

Step 2: Confirming That Hearing Aids Are No Longer Helping

Cochlear implants are typically recommended when hearing aids are no longer providing enough benefit. By the time a CI is discussed, most patients have worn hearing aids for many years.

Your audiologist will ensure:

Your hearing aids are appropriately fitted
You’re using current technology
You’re still not achieving meaningful speech understanding

If all signs point to limited benefit, you’ll be referred for a full cochlear implant evaluation.

Some offices do these evaluations in-house; others refer out. At 4 Bridges Audiology, we guide you through the entire process from start to finish.

Step 3: The Cochlear Implant Evaluation

Beyond your standard hearing test, the CI evaluation includes a set of speech tests performed with your hearing aids to measure how much benefit you're currently receiving.

These include:

Sentence testing in quiet
Sentence testing in noise (if needed)
Word recognition testing in quiet
Word testing in noise (if needed)

If both ears meet criteria, testing is performed on each side individually.

Some audiologists recommend implanting the ear that performs better during these tests because it generally leads to a smoother rehabilitation process. However, if both ears qualify, the final decision is always yours; you choose which ear will be implanted.

Step 4: Medical Clearance and Surgery

If both your hearing test and CI evaluation confirm candidacy, the next step is a medical evaluation with an ENT or CI surgeon. They’ll determine whether you’re healthy enough for surgery and review imaging if necessary.

Cochlear implant surgery is typically:

Outpatient
Straightforward
Followed by same-day discharge for most patients

Once your surgeon schedules the procedure, your audiologist will help you plan what comes next.

Step 5: Activation Day

You'll return to your audiologist for activation, usually about two weeks after surgery, if the incision site is healing well and you’re comfortable. This is when your implant is “turned on,” and your hearing journey truly begins.

We’ll dive deeper into what activation looks like in a future post. It’s one of the most exciting parts of the process.

Wrapping Up Your CI Journey (For Now)

Considering a cochlear implant can feel overwhelming, but you’re not alone. Understanding each step, from testing to surgery to activation, can make the process feel far more manageable and even exciting.

If you're interested in learning more, we encourage you to explore the rest of our blog series. We cover everything from hearing tests to insurance questions to device options, making it easier to navigate your hearing health with confidence. Your next helpful resource is just a click away.

Inside a Hearing Test: What Really Happens at Your Appointment

Wed, 10 Dec 2025 20:35:04 GMT

Ever scheduled a doctor’s appointment and immediately found yourself Googling what it’s going to be like? You’re definitely not alone. Most people like to know what to expect before walking into an appointment, especially when it involves something as personal as hearing. Think of this as your one-stop guide to understanding exactly what happens during a hearing exam and hearing aid conversation at 4 Bridges Audiology.

Scheduling Your Appointment: What’s First?

When you call to make an appointment, one of our patient care coordinators will ask a few starter questions. These help us understand your concerns and ensure you’re scheduled for the right type of visit. At 4 Bridges Audiology, we offer several appointment types, including:

Hearing Evaluation
Tinnitus Evaluation
Auditory Processing Evaluation
Cochlear Implant Evaluation

At first glance, that might seem like a lot, but each appointment type simply helps your provider plan the right testing to give you the most accurate results. While every visit includes hearing testing, some appointments involve additional specialized tests based on your needs.

What Happens During a Standard Hearing Evaluation?

Let’s start with the most common visit: the standard hearing evaluation.

Once you’re in the sound booth, your provider will review a brief case history based on the paperwork you filled out beforehand. This helps guide the testing process and ensures we address your specific concerns from the start.

Step 1: Tympanometry

Testing often begins with a quick procedure called tympanometry . This test looks at how well your eardrum is moving and helps rule out middle ear issues such as fluid or pressure problems. It’s fast, painless, and gives your provider valuable insight before moving on.

Step 2: Pure Tone Hearing Testing

Next comes the part most people think of as the “classic” hearing test. You’ll wear soft foam inserts placed comfortably into your ear canals to allow for the most accurate results.

This testing includes:

Air conduction testing (the beeps you hear through the inserts)
Bone conduction testing (vibrations placed behind the ear)
Recorded speech testing
Sometimes, speech-in-noise testing

Pure tone testing helps determine both the type and degree of hearing loss. Using both air and bone conduction is essential. It allows the audiologist to determine whether hearing loss is caused by a middle ear issue or by changes in the inner ear. Without both tests, an accurate diagnosis simply isn’t possible, and hearing aids cannot be fit properly.

Understanding Speech Testing

Speech Reception Threshold (SRT)

This test finds the softest level at which you can correctly repeat words . It also serves as a “double check” to confirm that your pure tone results are accurate.

Word Recognition Score (WRS)

This test measures how well you can understand speech at a comfortable listening level. Results are given as a percentage for each ear and help your provider determine:

How much benefit you may get from hearing aids
Whether a cochlear implant evaluation might be appropriate

We use recorded speech materials because they are consistent and repeatable. Live voice testing (using the provider’s own voice) can vary and doesn’t allow for reliable progress tracking over time.

Optional Speech-in-Noise Testing

This test evaluates how well you understand speech in the presence of background noise, something many people struggle with the most. It may be used to:

Screen for auditory processing difficulties
Help determine which level of hearing aid technology may best support you

Because Medicare and some insurances don’t cover this test, it’s considered optional and is usually recommended only when your provider feels it will give meaningful insight into your real-world listening challenges.

What About the Other Evaluation Types?

All the specialized evaluations we mentioned earlier begin with the standard hearing test described above . From there, additional testing is added based on your needs:

Tinnitus Evaluation

You’ll complete extra tests such as:

Pitch matching
Effective masking level determination

These help identify the pitch and loudness of your tinnitus and determine what types of sounds can best help reduce its impact through hearing aids or sound therapy apps.

Auditory Processing Evaluation

This involves additional speech-based testing to identify where breakdowns occur in the brain’s processing of sound. With this information, your provider can recommend targeted therapies and strategies to improve daily communication.

Cochlear Implant Evaluation

This process involves specific candidacy criteria using standard testing, plus additional sentence and word understanding tests. If you qualify, your provider will refer you to an ENT physician to begin the surgical consultation process. We’ll dive deeper into this journey in a future post.

The Takeaway

Now that you know what to expect, a hearing test probably doesn’t sound quite as intimidating, right? Our goal at 4 Bridges Audiology is to make every step of the process clear, comfortable, and empowering. The more you understand your hearing, the better decisions you can make for your health and lifestyle.

If you found this guide helpful, be sure to explore our other blog posts where we dive deeper into hearing loss, tinnitus, hearing aids, and the latest in hearing technology. Your hearing journey doesn’t stop here; we’re just getting started.

Understanding Hearing Insurance: A Simple Guide for Patients

Wed, 10 Dec 2025 20:00:45 GMT

Insurance conversations tend to fall into the same category as assembling furniture or doing taxes, no one wants to do it, but we all have to. And when it comes to hearing care, things can get especially confusing. You might ask two representatives the same question and end up with two completely different answers. Frustrating? Absolutely. But that’s exactly why this part of our patient education series exists: to help clear up the most common insurance questions we hear every day.

What Does Insurance Cover for a Basic Appointment?

Let’s start with the basics.

For a standard hearing evaluation, some insurance plans do cover the main portion of the hearing test. If you need a refresher on what a standard hearing test includes, you can check out our post “Inside a Hearing Test: What Really Happens at Your Appointment.”

However, coverage doesn’t always extend to:

Advanced testing
Office visits
Hearing aid consultations or maintenance

In healthcare, every service is billed using a specific code. When talking to your insurance provider, it’s important to mention that you’re seeing an audiologist, not a medical doctor. That distinction matters more than most people realize.

Audiologist vs. Physician: What’s the Difference in Billing?

An audiologist is a hearing specialist, not an MD. Audiologists hold a doctoral degree in their field and use the designation, Au.D.

But here’s the catch: because audiologists are considered specialists, many insurance plans apply a specialty copay or may not cover the visit at all. Medicare, for example, does not cover audiology office visits.

Using Medicare as an Example

Because so many private plans follow Medicare’s lead, it’s a useful starting point.

Medicare will cover:

92557 – Standard hearing test

But it does not cover:

99202 – Office visit / discussing results / hearing aid options / referral recommendations

So, if your provider only performed what Medicare covers, your appointment would be little more than sitting in the booth, taking the test, and walking out without any explanation or guidance. Not ideal, and not how we take care of patients.

Other important codes to be aware of:

92591 – Hearing aid selection/evaluation
92593 – Hearing aid check
V5014 – Hearing aid repair

If you’re using Medicare, this falls under non-covered charges , meaning Medicare will not cover these codes and that becomes the patient’s responsibility. Some private insurance companies may cover a portion of a few of these codes, but never the full amount.

Our team always verifies insurance using every code that could be used during your appointment, which allows us to give you the most accurate estimate possible. Still, insurance is never an exact science, and not every code is used for every patient.

Does Insurance Cover Hearing Aids?

Here’s the big question, and unfortunately, the answer many people don’t want to hear:

Medicare does not cover hearing aids.

Hearing is still considered a “non-essential” sense (we disagree, of course), and the introduction of over-the-counter hearing aids hasn’t helped change that classification. Some Medicare replacement plans offer third-party discounts , but these are not true benefits. They often limit the technology or brands your provider can offer.

Your audiologist will always explain your options honestly, but ultimately, you decide how you want to move forward.

What About Private Insurance?

Some private insurance plans do offer direct benefits for hearing aids but be cautious. Direct benefits almost never cover the entire cost of devices.

For example, a plan might state:

“One device per ear every three years.”

Sounds generous, right? But this doesn’t mean full coverage.

That benefit is tied to the insurance company’s fee schedule, which is the maximum amount they’ll pay per code. And insurers don’t share their fee schedules with us. We make educated estimates based on experience and past claims, but your actual out-of-pocket amount also depends on:

Your deductible
Your max out-of-pocket balance
Whether you’ve met either of those for the year

It’s complicated, we get it. And we’re always here to help you navigate it with as much clarity as possible.

Final Thoughts

Insurance may feel like a maze, but you don’t have to walk through it alone. Our team works hard to give you accurate estimates, explain your options clearly, and help you make the best choices for your hearing health, without surprises.

If you found this breakdown helpful, be sure to explore the rest of our patient education series. We cover everything from hearing tests to tinnitus to device options, all designed to make your hearing journey easier, clearer, and more empowering. Your next step might be just one blog post away.

Give Thanks for Better Hearing: Why Local Audiology Care Matters

Mon, 10 Nov 2025 18:07:46 GMT

It feels like you can’t scroll for five minutes without seeing an ad for “miracle hearing aids” or “easy order online” devices. The marketing noise is everywhere, and it can be very confusing. If you’re experiencing hearing loss, you have probably wondered whether you really need a prescription hearing aid or if you can just grab one from a big box store or the internet.

At 4 Bridges Audiology, our patients consistently mention that they enjoy the personal attention we provide to their questions and concerns. They’ve all heard the hype, but they want something that actually works. That’s because hearing loss isn’t just a volume issue; it’s a medical condition. And like most health concerns, something this important deserves a personalized approach.

Why Over-the-Counter is Rarely Better

It’s not like we don’t understand the appeal of over-the-counter (OTC) devices. They seem like quick, easy, semi-affordable solutions. However, just like glasses, “cheaters” will only do you so much good and can only serve a small portion of those with vision loss.

When you are fit with prescription hearing aids at 4 Bridges Audiology, you’re getting more than a device. You’re getting:

● A full evaluation of your unique type and degree of hearing loss

● High-quality devices that are programmed to your needs

● Follow-up care, troubleshooting, and personalized support

As I mentioned, you can think of it in much the same way as reading glasses. You might buy a pair of “cheaters” at the drugstore so you have something on hand to read menus, but they’re not the same as lenses prescribed specifically for your eyes. Hearing works the same way. Over-the-counter (OTC) hearing aids can help people with very mild hearing loss, but they are one-size-fits-most, offer limited customization, and leave you on your own for setup and troubleshooting.

Prescription-fit hearing aids, on the other hand, are tailored to your exact hearing needs. They’re professionally programmed, verified, and supported long-term by someone who knows you. Our job at 4 Bridges Audiology is to guide you through your options, explain them in plain language, and ensure you feel confident in the path you choose.

When Your Hearing Needs Extra Support

While we don’t perform surgeries in our office, we are trained to identify when a referral is needed. We work closely with specialists and are happy to provide a referral to someone local and trustworthy who can meet your needs.

Most ear surgeries involve middle-ear disease, chronic infections, or conditions that need medical treatment before hearing aids are appropriate. Examples include:

● Certain types of asymmetrical hearing loss

● Middle Ear Diseases

● Surgical options like cochlear implants or bone-anchored devices

Personalized Care Every Step of the Way

One of our favorite parts of this work? Getting to know patients and sticking with them for the long haul. We remember your history, your settings, and even the small things that matter most, like how you want to be able to hear your grandkids at the dinner table.

And because life happens, the prescription hearing aids we fit for you aren’t tied to just 4 Bridges Audiology. They are supported by nationwide networks and local providers across the country for added peace of mind. Some could even include international support. Your hearing care should support your lifestyle, not limit it.

Investing in Local Audiology Care

When you schedule appointments or purchase hearing aids at a local audiology practice, you’re doing more than looking out for your health. Any money you spend stays here, supporting local jobs, schools, businesses, and families. You’re strengthening your community while improving your quality of life.

If you’re ready to invest in your hearing health, schedule an appointment today with 4 Bridges Audiology by calling (423) 521-3277 or visiting the contact page on our website. This season of thanks, you’ll be grateful you chose a local audiologist.

Did You Know? Hearing Loss Could Increase Your Risk of Falling.

Wed, 12 Feb 2025 21:32:28 GMT

Exploring the Surprising Connection Between Balance, Falls, and Hearing Health

In the last five years, 4 Bridges Audiology owner, Dr. Courtney Guthrie, has continued to add services to become the most comprehensive audiology practice in the Chattanooga area. “The addition of evaluations for dizziness, balance issues, and vertigo has been the most beneficial to our patients. Prior to us starting this two years ago, patients had to drive to Knoxville or Nashville to get this type of test. It is a service that Chattanooga has needed for a long time,” said Dr. Guthrie. Dr. Dana Notaro joined 4 Bridges Audiology in May as the practice’s Vestibular Audiologist, focusing on helping patients find the relief they need from dizziness or vertigo and preventing fall related injuries.

“Most people do not realize that hearing loss isn’t just about missing out on conversations or not hearing your favorite shows. It could be affecting your balance, too. Untreated hearing loss can increase the risk of falls, especially as we get older,” said Dr. Notaro.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) reports that falls are the leading cause of injury-related deaths in older adults. In fact, nearly 1 in 4 adults aged 65 and older will experience a fall each year. That's a huge number! And with hearing loss, your risk of falling increases significantly. Untreated hearing loss can raise that risk by up to 300%.

It’s more common than you might think, too—about 1 in 3 people over the age of 65 have some degree of hearing loss. And even if your hearing loss is mild, research shows that it can make you 40% more likely to fall. The severity of hearing loss only makes this risk grow.

But here’s the good news: we can do something about it.

4 Bridges Audiology and Safe-T Team Up to Help You Stay Safe

“At 4 Bridges Audiology, we’re working with Safe-T to address the increasing number of fall-related injuries here in the Chattanooga area. Together, we’re introducing a brand-new balance screening board, called BTrackS, that helps us assess your fall risk and vestibular health (that’s the system in your inner ear responsible for balance),” said Dr. Notaro.

This new screening is a game-changer because it looks at both your hearing and your balance, giving us a clearer picture of how your overall health could impact your risk of falling. With this screening, we can spot any potential issues before they lead to a dangerous fall and offer personalized advice to improve your safety.

Why Does Hearing Loss Affect Your Balance?

So why is hearing loss connected to balance problems? Your inner ear does double duty, it’s responsible for both hearing and helping you stay balanced. The part of your inner ear that processes sound also helps your brain understand your position in space, which is crucial for staying steady on your feet. When you lose some of your hearing, that system can get thrown off, making it harder to maintain stability, especially when walking or navigating uneven terrain.

When hearing loss and balance issues go hand in hand, the risk of falls goes way up. For older adults, falls can lead to serious injuries like fractures or head trauma, which can seriously affect your quality of life. The CDC reports that falls cause over 800,000 hospitalizations every year in the U.S., with hip fractures and head injuries being the most common and often with the most severe outcomes.

How Can Fixing Hearing Loss Help You Stay Balanced?

The great news is that addressing hearing loss can significantly improve your balance and reduce your risk of falling. A study published in The Journal of the American Geriatrics Society found that individuals who wore properly fitted hearing aids were less likely to fall compared to those who didn’t use hearing aids.

“Using hearing aids isn’t just about hearing better, it helps your brain process sound and balance signals more effectively. That means you’re more aware of your surroundings, which helps you stay balanced and steady on your feet. When you hear better, you’re less likely to be caught off guard by something in your environment, whether it’s a car coming or a change in the ground under your feet,” said Dr. Notaro.

What Can You Do to Stay Safe?

So, what can you do to protect yourself? The key is to be proactive about your health, especially when it comes to both hearing and balance.

“If you’re concerned about your fall risk, our new balance screening services at 4 Bridges Audiology can give you a solid understanding of your balance and how your hearing might be affecting it. With this screening, we can work with you to create a plan to reduce your fall risk and improve your overall health,” said Dr. Guthrie.

Don’t wait until a fall happens to take action. Now’s the time to make sure you’re doing everything you can to stay safe.

For more information or to schedule a balance screening, call 4 Bridges Audiology at 423-521-3277 , or check out our website at 4bridgesaudiology.com . We’re here to help make Chattanooga a safer place for everyone!

Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). (2022). Falls among older adults: An overview. Retrieved from CDC.gov

National Institute on Deafness and Other Communication Disorders (NIDCD). (2020). Age-related hearing loss. Retrieved from NIDCD.gov

Lin, F. R., Ferrucci, L., & Metter, E. J. (2012). Hearing loss and falls among older adults in the United States. Archives of Internal Medicine, 172(4), 340-343.

American Academy of Audiology. (2021). Hearing loss and its impact on balance. Retrieved from audiology.org

Chien, W., & Lin, F. R. (2012). Hearing aids and falls in older adults. Journal of the American Geriatrics Society, 60(4), 698-700.

Understanding Vestibular Testing and Dizziness Awareness

Wed, 09 Oct 2024 17:09:02 GMT

Dana Notaro, Au.D., CCC-A, F-AAA

As we celebrate Audiology Awareness Month, it's essential to focus not only on hearing health but also on the often-overlooked aspect of balance: the vestibular system. Many people are unaware that dizziness can be related to issues in this system, which is crucial for maintaining our balance and spatial orientation. Let’s dive into what vestibular testing involves and why awareness of dizziness is so important for your overall health.

What Is the Vestibular System?

The vestibular system, located in the inner ear, plays a vital role in helping us maintain our balance and navigate our environment. It works closely with our visual and proprioceptive systems to keep us oriented. When this system is functioning properly, we can move around confidently. However, issues in the vestibular system can lead to dizziness, vertigo, and balance problems.

Common Causes of Dizziness

Dizziness can arise from various factors, including:

Vestibular Disorders: Conditions like Benign Paroxysmal Positional Vertigo (BPPV), Meniere’s disease, and vestibular neuritis.
Inner Ear Infections: These can disrupt balance and cause feelings of dizziness.
Medication Side Effects: Certain medications can impact your balance and cause dizziness.
Neurological Disorders: Conditions such as migraines or multiple sclerosis can also affect the vestibular system.

Why Is Dizziness Awareness Important?

Being aware of dizziness is crucial for several reasons:

Quality of Life: Chronic dizziness can severely impact your daily activities, work, and social interactions.
Safety: Dizziness can increase the risk of falls, particularly in older adults. Recognizing and addressing these symptoms can help prevent injuries.
Underlying Conditions: Dizziness can be a symptom of underlying health issues that may require treatment. Early detection can lead to better management.

What to Expect During Vestibular Testing

If you're experiencing dizziness, your audiologist may recommend vestibular testing to evaluate your balance system. Here’s what you can expect:

Comprehensive Assessment: Your audiologist will take a detailed history of your symptoms, including when they occur and their severity.
Balance Tests: You may undergo various tests, such as:

Electrophysiology Testing: This involves measuring the electrical activity in the vestibular system to assess how well each pathway is functioning, helping to identify any abnormalities.
Videonystagmography (VNG): This test measures eye movements to assess the vestibular system's function in different scenarios.
Rotary Chair Testing: This evaluates how your vestibular system responds to rotational movements, providing insight into how well your balance system is functioning.
Caloric Testing: This test uses warm and cold air in your ears to see how well your vestibular system is working in each ear separately.
Vestibular Head Impulse Test (vHIT): This checks how well your eyes and head work together during quick movements by isolating each of your 6 semicircular canals.

Results and Recommendations: Based on the tests, your audiologist will discuss the results and develop a tailored plan to address your symptoms. This may include vestibular rehabilitation therapy, lifestyle changes, or referral to a specialist.

Tips for Managing Dizziness

If you’re experiencing dizziness, here are a few tips to help manage it:

Stay Hydrated: Dehydration can exacerbate dizziness, so drink plenty of water.
Limit Sudden Movements: Stand up slowly and avoid rapid head movements to minimize dizziness.
Practice Balance Exercises: Simple exercises can strengthen your balance and coordination.
Seek Support: Don’t hesitate to reach out to your audiologist if you have concerns about dizziness.

This Audiology Awareness Month let’s not overlook the significance of our vestibular system. Awareness of dizziness and understanding the importance of vestibular testing can empower you to take control of your balance and overall health. If you or someone you know is experiencing dizziness, schedule an appointment with your audiologist to discuss your symptoms and explore your options. Together, we can work towards a safer, more balanced future!

The Ultimate Travel Guide for Hearing Aid Wearers

Tue, 12 Mar 2024 18:42:45 GMT

The Ultimate Travel Guide for Hearing Aid Wearers

Are you planning to take a vacation soon? Traveling with hearing aids can present a few unique challenges, but with proper preparation and a few handy tips from me, your favorite audiologist, you’ll have no problem enjoying your trip to the fullest. Instead of worrying about your hearing aids, you can just focus on the people, places, and experiences in front of you!

In this quick travel guide for hearing aid wearers, we'll share six of our favorite essential strategies to make your future vacations stress-free and memorable – in the best possible way!

Plan Ahead for Your Destination

Before you set off on your trip, research your destination to find out more about the accessibility features they offer to individuals with hearing impairments. If you’ll be using public transportation or visiting specific venues, search online or call ahead to see if they offer captioning services or induction loops/telecoils. We may need to add an induction loop or telecoil program in your hearing aid(s) if this type of service is available. Being proactive in booking accommodations and activities that cater to your needs will ensure a more enjoyable travel experience!

Pack Essential Hearing Aid Supplies

Being prepared while on your trip is key. As you’re packing your bags, don't forget to toss in some extra hearing aid batteries (if you use them), cleaning tools (ESPECIALLY WAX TRAPS!), and spare parts for your devices. It's also a good idea to carry a waterproof container to protect your hearing aids from moisture during your travels — especially if you’ll be spending a lot of time on the beach. And if you’re traveling internationally, check whether you’ll need an outlet adapter to use your charger.

Communicate Your Needs Effectively

Whenever you’re interacting with airline staff, hotel personnel, or tour guides, be sure to communicate your hearing needs clearly and assertively. It’s 100% okay to request special accommodations such as written communication, assistive listening devices, or real-time captioning services to facilitate better communication and understanding. This is your special trip, after all, and you want to be able to enjoy it fully!

Explore Technology Solutions

There are so many new technology solutions that can upgrade your travel. For example, there’s a special dehumidifier case you can use at night to remove moisture from your hearing aid while you’re sleeping — perfect if you’re traveling somewhere humid! If you’re going to be spending time in noisy environments, we can help set up a dedicated program for speech in noise that allows us to fine-tune your programming and maximize your hearing aid performance.

Adventure with Caution

If your travel includes outdoor activities like swimming or hiking, make an extra effort to protect your ears and your hearing aids. Whenever you’re taking off sunglasses or a hat, be careful that you don’t accidentally knock your hearing aids out or lose them. If you’re going to be swimming, keep your ears dry to prevent swimmer’s ear. This infection is sometimes more common for those who wear an ear mold. This sometimes happens during vacations because if there is moisture inside your ear canal and then an occluding hearing aid traps the moisture inside, it becomes a perfect breeding ground for infection. A swim cap or earplugs may be a good idea if you wear an occluding hearing aid dome. Not sure if your hearing aid ear mold or dome is occluding? Ask us!

Lastly, Source Advice from the Locals

Believe it or not, there are plenty of local organizations and online forums for hearing-impaired travelers! These are excellent sources for firsthand insights and recommendations for your specific travel destination. There’s nothing like chatting with other individuals who live with hearing loss or wear hearing aids because they can empathize with your specific needs.

Traveling with hearing aids can be a rewarding and enjoyable experience, it just requires a little bit of extra preparation and planning. We’re always here to help, too! We are more than happy to offer advice over the phone or schedule a visit so we can chat through your travel needs! Call the office at 423-521-3277 to set up an appointment.

Be sure to check out our social media pages this month for more tips and tricks for all types of vacations!

AGE-RELATED HEARING LOSS & COGNITIVE DECLINE

Fri, 22 Sep 2023 14:49:05 GMT

Approximately one in three people in the United States between the ages of 65 and 74 has hearing loss, and nearly half of those older than 75 have difficulty hearing. Having trouble hearing can make it hard to understand and follow a doctor's advice, respond to warnings, and hear phones, doorbells, and smoke alarms. Hearing loss can also make it hard to enjoy talking with family and friends, leading to feelings of isolation.

Age-related hearing loss most often occurs in both ears, affecting them equally. Because the loss is gradual, if you have age-related hearing loss you may not realize that you've lost some of your ability to hear.

There are many causes of age-related hearing loss. Most commonly, it arises from changes in the inner ear as we age, but it can also result from changes in the middle ear, or from complex changes along the nerve pathways from the ear to the brain. Certain medical conditions and medications may also play a role.

Why do we lose our hearing as we get older?

Many factors can contribute to hearing loss as you get older. It can be difficult to distinguish age-related hearing loss from hearing loss that can occur for other reasons, such as long-term exposure to noise.

Noise-induced hearing loss is caused by long-term exposure to sounds that are either too loud or last too long. This kind of noise exposure can damage the sensory hair cells in your ear that allow you to hear. Once these hair cells are damaged, they do not grow back and your ability to hear is diminished.

Conditions that are more common in older people, such as high blood pressure or diabetes, can contribute to hearing loss. Medications that are toxic to the sensory cells in your ears (for example, some chemotherapy drugs) can also cause hearing loss.

Rarely, age-related hearing loss can be caused by abnormalities of the outer ear or middle ear. Such abnormalities may include reduced function of the tympanic membrane (the eardrum) or reduced function of the three tiny bones in the middle ear that carry sound waves from the tympanic membrane to the inner ear.

Most older people who experience hearing loss have age-related hearing loss.

Can I prevent age-related hearing loss?

At this time, scientists don't know how to prevent age-related hearing loss. However, you can protect yourself from noise-induced hearing loss by protecting your ears from sounds that are too loud and last too long. It's important to be aware of potential sources of damaging noises, such as loud music, firearms, snowmobiles, lawn mowers, and leaf blowers. Avoiding loud noises, reducing the amount of time you're exposed to loud noise, and protecting your ears with ear plugs or ear muffs are the only things you can do to protect your hearing and limit the amount of hearing you might lose as you get older.

What to do in case you have trouble hearing?

Hearing problems can be serious. The most important thing you can do if you think you have a hearing problem is to seek advice from your primary care physician, an otolaryngologist, or an audiologist. Each has a different type of training and expertise. Each can be an important part of your hearing health care. However, the most important professional in your hearing health care journey will be an audiologist.

The connection between hearing loss and cognitive decline

Multiple studies have tackled the issue. One meta-analysis from February analyzed 11 studies dating back to 2016 to find that older people with moderate to severe hearing impairment had a 29 to 57 percent greater risk of cognitive impairment than those with normal hearing. It did not find that wearing hearing aids reduced the risk.

A 2016 study analyzing health insurance claims of 154,783 seniors concluded that hearing impairment increases the risk of dementia and that to some extent this happens regardless of medical treatment. Though the authors said hearing aids might delay or prevent dementia, they didn’t have details on whether patients were prescribed hearing aids or were using them regularly.

However, a 2017 article in Frontiers in Aging Neuroscience cited two studies that found people wearing hearing aids improved their performance on cognitive tests. The article said hearing aids, when prescribed at the beginning of age-related hearing loss, can postpone cognitive side effects.

Most types of hearing loss occur gradually over time making it hard for you or a loved one to notice there has been a change in hearing. Just like vision and dental care it is always a good idea to have your hearing evaluated once per year. Contact us today at 4 Bridges Audiology to schedule an appointment.

Are You Guilty of These Common Communication Bad Habits?

Wed, 26 Jul 2023 13:02:08 GMT

Are You Guilty of These Common Communication Bad Habits?

We don’t have to tell you that communication is an essential part of daily life. We are constantly communicating with others at work, at home, and in social situations. Because we do it so often, we all tend to develop some bad communication habits that can creep up and negatively impact these interactions we have with others.

You may think this blog is primarily for those who are suffering from hearing loss. However, those fortunate enough to have normal hearing are often the ones who can benefit from these reminders about more effective communication! It can really benefit your friends and loved ones who have hearing loss to keep working on eliminating those pesky bad habits.

Ready to dive in? Let’s uncover some of the bad habits we see and hear about all the time!

Bad Habit #1 - Starting a Conversation from Another Room

We are ALL guilty of this one! How often do you try to get someone’s attention from the kitchen while they’re watching television in a separate room? It’s frustrating for both parties when this doesn’t work. And in the end, one of you eventually ends up walking into the other room anyway, so this strategy just isn’t worth the frustration.

Instead, Do This: Say Their Name First, Then Wait

Instead of jumping into a full sentence from another room, start by saying their name. Then wait for confirmation that they can hear you. If they can hear you, then you can start talking. In my house, this has become such a common thing that everyone else has started doing it. That tells me it must be working! It greatly reduces how many times you need to repeat yourself, which saves everyone a lot of frustration.

Bad Habit #2 - Repeat, Repeat, Repeat

Ok, I think this is another one we’re all guilty of doing at some time or another. If the person you are speaking to doesn’t understand you, we sometimes just repeat what we said again, only louder. This is frustrating for those who are hard of hearing, especially when they STILL can’t hear or understand what you’re saying and you just keep getting louder and louder. It can make a conversation feel tense and it can put everyone on edge.

Instead, Do This: Try Rephrasing

You know when you ask Alexa a question and she doesn’t understand you, you usually rephrase the question, right? Apply that same strategy to everyday conversation! One or more of the words in the sentence you said may not have been clear, and saying the same words again may not help the listener. Instead, use different words with the same meaning. Here’s an example of that in a real life situation:

You: “I really like all of your decorations.”

Them: “Huh?”

You: “Those lights that you hung in the living room look very nice.”

Bad Habit #3 - Speaking Too Fast

This one is the hardest bad habit to kick! Some people just talk fast, and some don’t even realize they are. When we speak at a high rate of speed, a lot of times you’re not taking the time to properly enunciate your words. This can make it really difficult for people with hearing loss to hear and process what you’re saying. If you’re not sure whether or not you speak fast, record yourself in conversation with someone. You might be surprised!

Instead, Do This: Speak at a Slow and Intelligible Rate

Easier said than done, right? It does take practice! One thing you can do is grab a book or magazine and read it outloud, making sure you are enunciating and stopping to stress the important words. You will immediately see your rate of speech decrease! Now, I’m not telling you to speak so slowly that it becomes demeaning or rude; the goal is to use a variety of rates. Trust me, those with hearing loss or slower processing speeds will appreciate the extra effort.

Whether we want to admit it or not, most of us are guilty of at least some of these bad communication habits. Even I find myself making some of these all-too-common mistakes! It’s something I’m really working on, hence why I wanted to put together this blog post. I find these kinds of reminders helpful, and I hope you did too.

If you have questions about interacting with people in your life who are experiencing hearing loss, we are always here to help. We love when we receive messages from people who just want to do better and be better for the people they love. It warms our hearts! You can always reach out via our website or send us a message on our social media pages!

Hearing Loss Mistakes

Tue, 20 Jun 2023 15:36:58 GMT

Stop Making These Mistakes When It Comes to Hearing Loss

June is Alzheimer's & Brain Awareness Month, so I thought it would be a good opportunity to talk about how hearing loss is intertwined with brain health. I’ll also share the biggest mistakes I see my patients making when it comes to hearing loss in the hopes that it might help you.

To back up my claim that brain health and hearing health are connected, I want to share something from the National Institute on Aging . They did some studies and discovered that cognitive abilities (such as memory and concentration) decline faster in older adults with hearing loss than in people without hearing loss. There’s also a greater risk of developing dementia.

But don’t worry; there’s good news, too! A recent 2023 study found that people who use hearing restorative devices (like hearing aids) had a lower risk of long-term cognitive decline compared to people who did nothing to manage their hearing loss.

At 4 Bridges Audiology, we hope everyone, regardless of age, prioritizes their hearing health. But we also recognize that sometimes, these things don’t take precedence until they start to disrupt your quality of life. Hopefully, these mistakes I’m about to share will convince you to think about how you can preserve your hearing and manage any issues you might be experiencing today.

Mistake #1 - Thinking You’re Too Young to Have Hearing Loss

There are a lot of misconceptions around how old you must be to experience hearing loss. People of all ages can develop issues with their hearing health. It’s similar to your eyesight. Yes, many people have more trouble with their vision as they age. But that doesn’t mean young people don’t have vision issues. We see kids, teens, and young adults all the time with glasses to correct issues with their vision. Hearing is the same thing!

This misconception is frustrating because it has created a stigma amongst younger people that hearing aids are only for seniors. So, people wait to get them until they reach an “acceptable” age. In the meantime, they end up experiencing a reduced quality of life. This is something we’re trying hard to raise awareness about because it’s something we see more often than we want.

Mistake #2 - Expecting Hearing Aids to Make Background Noise Disappear

Hearing aids are amazing, but they do not have the ability to cancel out certain sounds altogether. Their main goal is to help bring speech sounds THROUGH the noise so you can hear the things you need or want to hear with more clarity and comfort. Many of the more sophisticated hearing aid brands are able to dampen or lessen the background noise to a level where it is less interfering with the speech that you want to hear. But remember…

Hearing aids are NOT noise-canceling headphones. True noise-canceling headphones should make it difficult to hear everything around you, including speech. Hearing aids are trying to simultaneously reduce background noise from all directions while helping you hear very soft speech from different speakers and from different directions. This is an extremely difficult process, even if you think about it in the simplest way.

We think it’s important to talk about what hearing aids can and can’t do with our patients and even with prospective patients who may not be quite ready for hearing aids yet. The last thing we want is for someone to have false hopes about what this technology can do for them.

At 4 Bridges Audiology, we strongly encourage patients who are candidates for cochlear implants to take the next step in their hearing journey. Sometimes a traditional hearing aid is not the most appropriate option. I have seen several patients over the last few months that try new hearing aids, but they have not improved their hearing because they are truly cochlear implant candidates. There are limitations to what audiologists can do to improve people’s hearing with traditional hearing aids and we are here to help you make the most informed decision for your hearing loss needs.

We work with patients with all types of hearing devices - hearing aids, cochlear implants, and bone-anchored hearing aids. We even offer a few OTC hearing devices. We want to ensure that our patients have the access they need to the right type of hearing device for THEIR hearing loss and lifestyle.

Mistake #3 - Playing the Waiting Game with Your Hearing Loss

This is another frustrating one for audiologists. If you have hearing loss, you should absolutely address it right away. You don’t need to wait until it gets worse to seek treatment. In my opinion, waiting is like gambling with your health. Remember what I shared earlier about cognitive abilities declining more rapidly amongst those with hearing loss? When your brain is deprived of speech sounds for too long, it actually starts to forget what certain speech sounds like.

For example, I had a patient who waited five years to get help for his hearing loss. During his baseline hearing test when I asked him to repeat a simple word test (at a comfortable level for him) he got one word wrong. Five years later, I gave him the same test and this time, he got seven wrong. According to the results of this test, he is now probably only able to understand 72% of what he hears in a quiet listening environment even when he is wearing hearing aids.

I don’t know about you, but that wouldn’t be good enough for me! Your quality of life and your brain health benefit so much when you decide to seek help for your hearing loss right away. Hearing aids can adjust the sound quality so you can hear it, but it can’t help your brain process the information and understand it.

I hope this post doesn’t come across as too negative, but sometimes, I think we all need a bit of a wakeup call when it comes to our health. We take it for granted, or we think that whatever is bothering us will just “go away.” But unfortunately, hearing loss doesn’t just go away.

At 4 Bridges Audiology, we want you to live your life on your terms and enjoy everything to the fullest. We would love to schedule a hearing evaluation to see if there are any areas of concern that we need to pay attention to. Give us a call at 423-521-3277 and let’s chat more about it!

Everything You've Ever Wanted to Know About Earwax

Mon, 03 Apr 2023 19:30:41 GMT

A common misconception about earwax is that it’s “bad” or “dirty” but, earwax has a purpose. As an audiologist, I get to see my fair share of earwax up close, and I’ll be the first to say that it’s not gross at all. In fact, it serves a very important purpose and it’s just one more example of how amazing the human body is.

It’s a common misconception that all our appointments center around hearing loss. We do a lot more than that, and one example is earwax removal. Did you know that people come to us all the time for this? A lot of people don’t even realize we perform this service!

Often, patients decide to make an appointment with us because they’re experiencing issues like muffled hearing, ringing in their ear(s), itchiness, or odor. But you can come to us for earwax removal anytime, even if you aren’t having any issues. We would love to help you!

If you’re here reading this post, it means you’re at least a little bit curious about earwax. Why do we have it? Can we use cotton swabs to remove it? Is that bad for our ears? In this post, I’ll share my expertise and my opinions on all things earwax related. Are you ready?

First Things First: What is Earwax?

Your ear canal contains tons of tiny little pores that are responsible for producing earwax, which is also called cerumen. This waxy substance consists of dead skin cells, hair, and the secretions of the ceruminous and sebaceous glands of the outer ear canal.

Earwax can vary in appearance but most of the time it’s a yellowish orange color and it has a slightly sticky consistency. The color and even smell of your earwax can indicate certain health issues, for example an ear infection or buildup.

The most important thing to understand about earwax is that it’s a GOOD thing. It is a superhero that helps protect your sensitive ear canal against things like bacteria, fungi, and water.

Is There Any Safe Way to Remove Earwax?

I strongly recommend that you do not try to remove earwax at home. As of right now, I don’t know of any over-the-counter products that are able to effectively remove earwax without potentially pushing it further back into the ear canal, which is something we want to avoid.

Home remedies are so ineffective that most of my patients schedule ear cleanings after attempting to remove the wax themselves. I’m an audiologist and I can’t even remove my own earwax without pushing it further back in my ear canal, because I can’t see what I’m doing!

There are over-the-counter cleansing products, but I haven’t seen great results with them. While some earwax may come out, there is almost always an amount that gets pushed back further into your ear canal that you cannot see. Or the product may dry out your ear canal too much.

The only technique I usually feel comfortable suggesting to patients in our office are drops of mineral oil or Debrox. Adding a few drops of oil to your ear canal can help keep it moist and soft enough so that it can more effectively push the wax out on its own. This is ONLY recommended for people who have a healthy middle ear with no perforations (holes) or prior surgeries. Make sure you schedule an appointment before trying this technique so we can make sure it won’t cause harm or damage.

If the earwax is bothering you for any reason, you can schedule an appointment with us to have it removed in our office. We have some patients that schedule routine earwax removals every three or six months, and we are always more than happy to do this!

Is Earwax Buildup a Sign of Poor Hygiene?

Audiologists like to see a little bit of earwax when they’re doing an exam because this signifies a healthy ear canal. When the ear canal becomes too dry (from using cotton swabs or ear drops), it can sometimes cause the area to drain or itch.

Still, the presence of earwax is something that people get embarrassed about. We see this all the time after we do a cleaning in the office. People will be horrified by the amount of earwax that we were able to remove from their ears. I promise, this is nothing to be embarrassed about and it is not an indication of poor hygiene.

What Happens if My Ears Become Blocked?

Your ear canal contains tiny hairs called cilia, which are responsible for naturally moving earwax out of your ears. However, only the front half of the ear canal has cilia; the back portion of the ear canal – the part that connects with the eardrum – does not.

So, if earwax gets pushed back PAST the cilia (as a result of using cotton swabs, for example), your ear won’t be able to move the wax out. This can lead to a blockage. Age-related dryness in the ear canal can also cause blockages.

If you have a blockage, you might start to hear your own voice differently or just experience the feeling of your ears being plugged up. Or, when you lay down on a pillow with your “good” ear, you might find that you can’t hear as well. If this happens, schedule an appointment with us. A blockage is almost impossible to fix on your own, but we can help you clear it out in no time.

Do you want to have us take a look at your earwax? Schedule an appointment with 4 Bridges Audiology today! We can remove earwax via suction, curette, and irrigation. Give us a call at 423-521-3277 to learn more about these options.

What You Miss When You Travel with Untreated Hearing Loss

Tue, 07 Mar 2023 12:46:20 GMT

What You Miss When You Travel with Untreated Hearing Loss

Many of us are looking ahead and starting to plan trips for the spring and summer seasons. Maybe you’re going to take the family to Disney or head west to see the Grand Canyon. Or maybe you’re traveling to Hawaii for a beach vacation. (If so, please take us with you!!) No matter where you’re going, a vacation is always something to look forward to and enjoy!

However, if you’re living with untreated hearing loss, you may not be getting as much out of your vacations as you would like. While you might be able to see the ocean, your hearing loss might prevent you from enjoying the peaceful sound of the waves. Or, you might have a hard time hearing the important announcements at the airport or understanding someone’s thick accent. These things can make travel difficult and can cause you to miss out on important moments!

We understand that it can be difficult to confront the fact that you are living with hearing loss, especially if it’s not impacting your quality of life that much yet. But when all your senses are working together, you won’t have to miss out on all of the little things that make life wonderful — like vacations! And we think you deserve that.

Common Issues That Arise When You Travel with Untreated Hearing Loss

Issue #1 - Hearing Airport Announcements

Traveling through airports is never easy, but if you’re living with untreated hearing loss, it can be so much more difficult. Even mild hearing loss contributes to issues in understanding conversations and when you add in all the background noise that you encounter in an airport, it can be a very frustrating experience. Airport announcements are usually very important, so it’s necessary that you’re able to hear them clearly.

Luckily, most airports are now equipped with a telecoil, which allows you to tune into the airport's speaker system via your hearing aids (if they have this feature). This is especially useful when you’re sitting at your gate, and you need to hear the boarding instructions. The airport’s telecoil will transmit these announcements right into your hearing aids!

In the future, we can look forward to new Bluetooth technology that will allow any Bluetooth compatible hearing device to connect wirelessly to announcement systems and looped areas with the need for a telecoil. If you have a Cochlear Nucleus 8 processor, you already have access to this feature, but many places will not be installed with the proper equipment just yet.

Issue #2 - Navigating Your Hotel Room

Hotel rooms can be a little tricky. The phones, televisions, and alarms in your room are all set up for people who do not experience hearing loss, but that doesn’t mean it’s impossible to function and feel safe in your hotel room. Even if your hearing loss is more severe, there are accommodations that can be made so you can live comfortably in your room.

So, how do you address this? Two words: hearing loops. Some hotels offer “looped” rooms for those who wear hearing aids. A hearing loop provides a magnetic, wireless signal that can be picked up by your hearing aid when it’s on the telecoil setting. This helps eliminate unwanted background noise and it also helps the sound in the room reach the hearing aid more easily.

Issue #3 - Understanding Those with Accents

Accents can be a lot harder to understand if you are living with untreated hearing loss, especially for older individuals and especially if there is other background noise. If you’re planning to travel to a place where the people will have accents, this could become an issue. Interestingly, we have patients who tell us sometimes that they struggle to understand the PBS show Downton Abbey. This is due to the difficulty that comes with understanding accents!

Hearing and understanding people with accents comes down to two main factors: reducing background noise and amplifying the sound you’re trying to hear. Both goals can be easily accomplished with hearing aids like the ones we offer here at 4 Bridges Audiology!

Issue #4 - Enjoying the Sounds Around You

We’ve spent a lot of time talking about the more practical side of traveling with untreated hearing loss, but what about the emotional side? Vacations are a truly sacred time. After all, you spend so much time, energy, and money planning your trip and when you finally get there, you want to enjoy it fully, without any of the sacrifice or frustration that can come with untreated hearing loss.

If you are living with untreated hearing loss or have been putting off a hearing evaluation, call us now! Our hearing aids range in price, but we can tell you that they are less expensive than the average vacation. We think that’s a small price to pay when you think about the years you’ll be able to enjoy and experience life at its fullest with family and friends, on vacation and at home!

Call us today to schedule an appointment for your hearing evaluation and see what your treatment options are! 423-521-3277 .

Addressing Your Tinnitus

Thu, 02 Feb 2023 15:06:50 GMT

Addressing Your Tinnitus

If you’re living with tinnitus, you know how much it can impact every single moment of your day. People who have never experienced the ringing or buzzing have no idea how pervasive it is and how much it can affect your quality of life, even when all you want to do is watch television from the comfort of your favorite chair.

If you’ve never visited an audiologist to discuss your tinnitus or you’ve been told there’s nothing that can be done, this article is for you. I have seen firsthand how hearing aids have helped improve the perception of my patient’s tinnitus.

Tip #1: Acknowledge the Problem and Get Help

When I talk to patients with tinnitus, one of the main things we discuss is the frustration around not being able to really relax at home. They can’t experience true peace and quiet, which can cause a lot of stress. Their elevated stress levels make their tinnitus worse and soon, they end up in a cycle that makes it difficult for them to unwind and can even lead to more serious mental health issues like anxiety and depression.

You deserve to feel relaxed, and you deserve to experience relief from your symptoms. The first step is to share what’s happening with a loved one or healthcare professional, especially if you’re experiencing any mental health issues. Let the people in your life know that you need a little extra support. The second step after that is to schedule a hearing evaluation with an audiologist.

Tip #2: Enjoy More of Your Favorite Things

I’ve had many patients who tell me that they used to love watching television and movies, but they don’t really do it anymore because their tinnitus makes the experience so frustrating. Either they have to turn the volume way up so they don’t miss anything or they have to turn on the subtitles, which can really hinder your ability to get swept up into a story.

It’s not just television, though. There are many hobbies that can be difficult to do with tinnitus: hunting, playing an instrument, even reading! When you’re not able to hear what you need to hear or you can’t focus because of your symptoms, it can cause you to lose interest. Fortunately, a hearing aid — like the ones we carry — can help drown out or mask the ringing or buzzing you hear so you can get back to enjoying your hobbies again!

Tip #3: Get a Better Night’s Sleep

I don’t know about you, but I’m a completely different person when I don’t get a good night’s sleep. If your tinnitus is getting in the way of your sleep, you know what I’m talking about. And, just like the stress cycle we talked about previously, sleep issues like insomnia are both caused by tinnitus and make tinnitus symptoms worse. So, addressing this issue is very important.

Most of us need a quiet environment in order to fall asleep, and tinnitus can make that pretty impossible. Sound therapy can help and can be anything from running a fan, a noise machine, or playing some ambient music to help you focus less on the tinnitus, so it doesn’t keep you awake at night.

Why 4 Bridges Audiology?

As audiologists, we understand the medical side of tinnitus as well as the emotional side. We know when to give referrals in cases where further medical management is needed, and we know how to support people who just want to get back to living — and relaxing — in peace.

If you decide to pursue a hearing aid to manage your tinnitus, we would love to chat with you. The hearing aids that you can find over the counter at places like Costco or Walgreens do not have tinnitus therapy options installed in them. We offer high-quality (but still affordable) options that can be prescription fit for your specific lifestyle and hearing needs. To learn more contact us today at info@4bridgesaudiology.com .

Budgeting for Your Hearing Aids: Weighing Over-the-Counter Devices vs. Prescription Hearing Aids

Fri, 06 Jan 2023 18:15:15 GMT

Trying to budget and save money in the new year is an extremely popular goal. Most of us are looking for ways to cut costs, especially now. If this is something you’ve been thinking about — and you’re someone who will need to purchase hearing aids this year — you might be wondering if switching to an over-the-counter device is a viable option.

Now, we are not against over-the-counter hearing aids. They’re a great option for certain people with certain needs. However, they are not going to be the best choice for everyone. When you are looking at options, your budget matters (of course), but so does your quality of life. If an over-the-counter option isn’t going to address your specific hearing issues, it isn’t a good option, plain and simple. So, let’s go over each option together so you can start planning!

Over-the-Counter Hearing Aids

As you probably heard, hearing aids are now being offered over the counter at places like Walmart, Costco, Walgreens, and Best Buy to name a few. This is great news for a lot of people, but we still like to educate our patients about some of the potential drawbacks, as well as the benefits!

Over-the-Counter Pros:

There is typically a cost savings when purchasing an over-the-counter hearing aid, as long as you are someone with mild to moderate hearing loss.
There’s no appointment needed; you can set up your hearing aids at home after watching a tutorial or hopping on a video call with customer support.
For many of these over-the-counter options, there is an app you can download that will help you adjust the devices as needed.

Over-the-Counter Cons:

Most of these devices will require the use of a smartphone to program and adjust the devices as needed.
Over-the-counter hearing aids are not going to work with all types of hearing loss. Additionally, they do not come with programs for tinnitus therapy.
Many of these devices only come with a 1-year repair warranty and do not have a loss or damage warranty. If you want to make a return, you will likely have to cover the shipping costs out of pocket. The companies also carry a very strict return policy and are not willing to budge if the devices are returned after the 45-day trial period.
Remember that these are electronic devices that are exposed to ear wax, humidity, moisture, and sweat among other elements. They will require maintenance and repairs that the user is not able to perform without sending them in for a repair. This can take up to a week to complete by the time you mail them off and receive them back.
It can take three to four weeks to properly adjust a hearing aid, and this can be a confusing process to go through without the help of an audiologist.
Most over-the-counter devices are going to be in-the-ear devices (like many Bluetooth devices or earbuds). Depending on the hearing loss in the low frequency region, in-the-ear devices can create an occlusion effect, or barrel-like sound quality, which does not necessarily improve hearing ability and understanding.

Prescription Pros:

Most audiologists will include a three-year repair warranty and a three-year loss or damage warranty with every hearing aid purchase, which is great for added peace of mind.
During your routine hearing evaluation, you will also be screened for any middle ear diseases that would warrant medical attention before the fitting of a hearing aid.
The lifespan of prescription hearing aids is longer. Your hearing aid, with proper care, can last 5-7 years, which is an important consideration when budgeting.
Most prescription fit hearing aid technology comes with tinnitus retraining therapy, which isn’t something that is currently offered over-the-counter devices.
The audiologist DOES THE WORK FOR YOU! There is no need to figure out how to program or adjust the device on your own. Your audiologist will teach you how to use and care for the device to get the maximum benefit for many years.
YOUR INSURANCE MAY COVER THE COST OF A HEARING DEVICE IN FULL! But you may not even know it. Even if a device is only $300, if your insurance covers it wouldn’t you want to take advantage of those savings?!?!

Prescription Cons:

The cost of prescription hearing aids will almost always be more than over-the-counter devices.
You must schedule an appointment for a routine hearing evaluation, and then come back in for follow-up appointments to make sure you have a good fit.
Most of the time, you may not be able to leave with a hearing aid the same day as your hearing test.

Payment Options

Over-the-Counter Devices

Payment is due in full upon ordering. Most of these companies do not offer payment plan options unless put on a credit card already owned by the user.

Prescription Hearing Aids

Insurance may cover the cost of the devices or services in-part or in-full. If you do not know what your insurance will cover, call them to find out what benefits you have for prescription hearing aids.
Most offices will offer financing options, such as CareCredit to help with the cost of the hearing aids.

As you can see, there is a lot to consider when budgeting for hearing aids. If you have mild to moderate hearing loss (no tinnitus) and you feel confident going through the steps to set it up and adjust it as needed, the over-the-counter options might be great for you.

If you’re someone with more severe hearing loss or tinnitus, you may want to work with an audiologist to ensure you end up with a device that is truly going to work for you. Even if you save money up front, it’s not a good investment if you aren't getting the desired outcome.

Of course, we are here to help you decide! You might think that we’re always going to tell you to come in and work with us, but that isn’t the case. If we think an over-the-counter hearing aid will meet all your needs, we will tell you that. We even sell some of these devices in our office. We just want you to feel your best, and if we can save you a little bit of money at the same time, we’re happy to do that. Feel free to contact us at 423-521-3277 if you would like to discuss your options!

3 Things You Should Know about 4 Bridges Audiology

Tue, 04 Oct 2022 14:04:21 GMT

October is National Audiology Awareness Month! Here are three things you should know about our audiologists concerning our profession at 4 Bridges Audiology.

We are independent, and the money you spend here stays here!

Did you know that some practices like Beltone or Southern Medical Hearing Center are owned by the actual hearing aid manufacturing company? That means profits go to company stockholders and executives.

4 Bridges Audiology is not owned by a hearing aid manufacturing company. We are independently owned and operated! Being independently owned and operated allows us to provide you with the best care possible. It also allows us to be a pressure-free environment because we are not required to meet sales quotas.

Did you know that there are over six different hearing aid manufacturers?

How can you possibly know which one is right for you? That's where I come in! As a privately owned practice, we fit all
six major brands. We only recommend a high-quality brand that is suitable for your type of lifestyle before we make a recommendation.

Lastly, and maybe most importantly, the money you spend with us stays in Chattanooga. Local specialized healthcare just makes sense!

At 4 Bridges Audiology, we ensure that you always have a proper fitting. When it comes to healthcare needs, a prescription often guides treatment and is catered to the patient. When you have problems with your eyesight, your glasses are fit to prescription for each
eye.

The same holds true for properly fit hearing aids! Real Ear Measurements (REMs) are used in the hearing aid programming process. REMs allows
your hearing aids to be programmed based on:

● YOUR hearing loss
● The exact anatomy and shape of YOUR ear
● The fit of YOUR hearing aids
● What amount of amplification research says YOU need to have the best outcomes...

Think of REMs as a sort of "prescription" for how YOUR hearing aids should work! We pride ourselves on performing REMs as part of our routine practice and care!

We can treat your tinnitus.

At 4 Bridges Audiology, we can treat your tinnitus. We have access to hearing aids with tinnitus retraining therapy installed. Some larger discount stores do not have audiologists who work for them, so they can not fit this type of technology.

To make the manufacturing and distribution process more manageable, the hearing aid manufacturers strip the tinnitus retraining therapy from these devices sold in locations where tinnitus can not be treated.

At 4 Bridges Audiology it doesn't cost more to get the tinnitus retraining therapy inside our devices. Therefore, we always recommend ordering the hearing aid with this type of technology and then activating it in the future if needed!

If you were looking for a sign to start your hearing healthcare journey, look no further. You are in great hands with us at 4 Bridges Audiology. We will make sure the type of hearing aid technology is right for your lifestyle, budget, and hearing needs!

We offer custom hearing protection devices, including earbud sleeves for almost any type of
earbud. There are so many options when it comes to customized hearing protection and the benefits make them a no-brainer! These devices are made by taking an impression of each ear.

4 Bridges Audiology is the first in the Chattanooga area to offer the Otoscan 3D Ear Scanner. This device
allows for a more accurate scan of each patient’s ear and helps to improve comfort and the amount of noise reduction provided by certain devices.

From custom earplugs designed for sleeping, working, exercising, studying, motorcycle riding,
and swimming - we have a solution for whatever your occupation, hobby, or need. Do you have a problem with your earbuds not fitting and staying in your ears properly? So many of us do, because these are all standard size devices, and our ears vary tremendously from
person to person! Customized silicone earbud sleeves can be made to fit almost any earbud style. Contact 4 Bridges Audiology today to learn more about these incredible devices!

I Know Why You Don’t Want Hearing Aids

Mon, 29 Aug 2022 20:21:32 GMT

I Know Why You Don't Want Hearing Aids

As an audiologist, I’ve heard a lot of excuses patients have given for refusing to consider hearing aids. Today, you’re going to hear them too! Below is a concise list of the most common reasons my patients avoid hearing aids—and why those excuses are bunk!

1. “Hearing aids are uncomfortable.” Hearing aids should never cause you discomfort! If they hurt, they are not properly fitted. I always tell my patients that if the hearing aids are uncomfortable, you will know it in the first day or two after a new hearing aid fitting. After that, something must be wrong and needs to be fixed! I can change the way they fit in your ears until they are comfortable.

2. “Hearing aids make me look old.” Something as small and inconspicuous as hearing aids often go unnoticed. I had a patient demo a hearing aid once just to see if his wife would notice! She didn’t… he was impressed. I always like to tell my patients, what do you think makes you look older… saying “what” or “huh” over and over or wearing an inconspicuous modern device behind your ear!

3. “Hearing aids are big and clunky.” While hearing aids from 15 to 20 years ago may have been large and obvious, advances in technology have decreased their size. Now, hearing aids are less than an inch long and hide behind your ears.

4. “Hearing aids are too expensive.” Hearing aids are pricey, but their cost is well worth the investment. Would you rather have the money or the ability to hear your sister’s wedding vows, the speeches at your grandson’s graduation ceremony, and the conversation at your last dinner out with friends? On average, hearing aids cost $4300 and can last anywhere from 5 to 6 years. That is about $60 per month. So, for $1.96 per day, you can continue to nurture your cognitive health and enjoy social interactions with family and friends.

5. “I don’t want to be pressured into buying something I don’t need.” At 4 Bridges Audiology, we are not pushed to meet certain quotas or sales numbers. Of paramount importance is our patients’ trust. We are not in the business of selling but of helping patients hear better and enjoy life again.

6. “I had a bad experience with a different provider.” Perhaps the most understandable concern is a bad experience with a different provider. At 4 Bridges Audiology, you can feel at ease. We have a pressure-free environment, and we stand by our 30-day trial period. We are here to help and support those in our community. The money that you spend here stays here. If you aren’t happy with our service or product, we are not happy either. We never push you into anything you aren’t comfortable pursuing.

I’ve heard many more excuses, but these are the most common reasons people give for avoiding hearing aids. Don’t get me wrong! Each concern is valid, but each concern is also easily resolved. We are happy to dispel or resolve any other concerns you have heard about hearing aids. Contact us today to schedule an appointment!

May Is Better Hearing Month

Mon, 02 May 2022 20:34:54 GMT

May is Better Hearing Month and we want to encourage everyone to make an appointment with an audiologist for a hearing test.

Hearing loss impacts a large number of Americans. Of the more than 36 million Americans who experience hearing loss, 30 percent are 65-74 and 47 percent are 75 years of age or older. Most of these people could benefit from the use of some type hearing device (hearing aids, cochlear implants, or bone-anchored hearing aids). As the baby boomer population ages, more Americans are forced to face hearing health challenges. Growing numbers of younger Americans are also reporting hearing problems.

While age is still the greatest factor in hearing loss, many younger people also experience hearing difficulty due to exposure to loud music and noises including occupational noise. Among adults aged 70 and older with hearing loss who could benefit from hearing aids, fewer than one in three (30 percent) have used them despite growing evidence that doing so results in better long-term outcomes.

Research demonstrates that untreated hearing loss in seniors is related to poor health outcomes including significantly increased falls and dementia. Individuals with even mild hearing loss experience significant impact in the form of reduced quality of life and cognitive health.

Audiologists are the experts in hearing health. While hearing aids are the most commonly recognized treatment for hearing loss, there are many factors that go into determining the best way to manage changes in hearing. There are assistive listening devices and accessories that help those with more severe hearing loss. If the hearing loss is profound or involves middle ear pathologies, the patient may be a candidate for a cochlear implant or bone-anchored hearing aid (BAHA). Patients may also need aural rehabilitation to improve their listening skills with their hearing devices.

There are other auditory problems such as Hidden Hearing Loss or Auditory Processing Disorders (APD), which means the person has normal hearing on the audiogram but has deficits in how the brain processes information. This diagnosis requires specialized testing that can only be completed by an audiologist. When APD is diagnosed and treated appropriately, patients can learn ways to lessen their daily struggles and communicate more efficiently in various environments.

An audiologist is the specialist who is best equipped determine the underlying reason for the hearing loss and to further determine the appropriate treatment. They also offer custom options for protecting hearing.

If you or someone you know is having difficulty hearing and communicating with those around them, call 4 Bridges Audiology today to make an appointment. We are HEAR FOR YOU!

March 2022: World Hearing Day

Mon, 07 Mar 2022 14:52:15 GMT

“To hear for life, listen with care.”

March 3 was World Hearing Day! I meant to have this blog posted that day, but other things got in the way. However, I decided to post it late because this blog is all about educating the public of all the services Audiologists can provide. One of these services is education and supply of custom and non-custom hearing protection devices. We also take impressions that patients can send to manufacturers themselves for custom devices for all sorts of activities.

With over a billion young people at risk of avoidable hearing loss due to recreational sounds, the focus of this year will be on hearing loss prevention through safe listening.

The key messages of this year’s focus are:

It is possible to have good hearing across the life course through ear and hearing care.
Many common causes of hearing loss can be prevented, including that which is caused by exposure to loud sounds.
Practicing safe listening can mitigate the risk of hearing loss associated with recreational sound exposure.

In 2021, WHO released the World Report on Hearing, highlighting the increasing number of people living with and at risk of hearing loss. The report highlighted noise control as one of the seven key H.E.A.R.I.N.G interventions and stressed the importance of mitigating exposure to loud sounds. The WHO is calling upon governments, industry partners and civil society to raise awareness for and implement evidence-based standards that promote safe listening.

In the last thirteen years as a practicing Audiologist, here is what I have learned from my patients. I have seen more cases than I would like to admit, where irreversible damage has occurred due to exposure to loud sounds without the use hearing protection. Many of these cases involve firearms. Not only does the noise exposure cause permanent hearing loss, but it has also caused tinnitus, hyperacusis, and chronic pressure/fullness in the ears in some cases.

More frequent noise exposures for longer periods of time can cause a slower degradation of a person’s hearing if appropriate hearing protection is not used. This can also lead to tinnitus and other issues with the auditory system. Research has shown blast exposures that cause traumatic brain injury have been linked to auditory issues including hearing loss, central auditory processing disorders, vestibular impairment, and tinnitus.

I counsel my patients daily on the importance of protecting our hearing from noise. There are many over the counter products that work well if used properly. However, the most important feature of any type of hearing protection is the fit. If the device does not fit a person’s ear properly, it will not provide the amount of noise reduction that may be listed on the product. I often hear people complain about the fit of these over-the-counter products and how uncomfortable they become after extended periods of use.

TYPES OF HEARING PROTECTION DEVICES WE OFFER (CUSTOM & NON-CUSTOM):

Industrial Hearing Protection
Firearm Protection (for all types of shooting/hunting activities)
Motorsport Protection
Sleep Plugs
Musician’s Plugs (various types for musicians or avid concert attendees)
Musician’s In-the-Ear Monitors
Swim Plugs (not protecting our hearing from noise, but protecting it from exposure to water)
AirPod/Earbud Molds (making earbuds more secure and comfortable)
Pilot Molds

This list may not include every single option we have access to, so if you need a particular type of device, please call the office and let us know.

If you need to use hearing protection frequently due to occupational or recreational activities, call our office today to discuss the best options for you.

Over-the-Counter and Medicare Expansion Updates

Mon, 06 Dec 2021 19:44:53 GMT

I am sure over the last few years you have heard the news regarding the Over-the-Counter Hearing Aid Act. Now, we have the Build Back Better Act that will also change many aspects of how audiologists can provide care and what is covered related to hearing healthcare for those on Medicare. This will be a topic that will need to be discussed often over the next several months, as things will change. This blog, and future blogs, will be posted to educate you on what this means for you as a patient with hearing loss.

OVER-THE-COUNTER BILL

On October 20, 2021, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) released a Proposed Rule Establishing Over-the-Counter Hearing Aids with a 90-day deadline for comments (due by January 18, 2002). This follows President Biden’s Executive Order of July 9, 2021, and initiates implementation of the FDA Reauthorization Act (FDARA) from 2017.

To break it down, here is what the current bill mentions:

Creation of a separate class of hearing aid, specific to over-the-counter and direct to consumer hearing aids.

Restricts access to those 18 years and older.

Require an open-access software platform – meaning it can programmed and adjusted by anyone.

*Still not addressed for the prescription and air conduction classes but should because it was mentioned in several reports.

Removal of the current medical clearance waiver requirement for all adult hearing aid purchases, irrespective of the class of hearing aid.

Require a brochure/user manual be suppled with every hearing aid purchase. This can be printed, digital, or phone access for additional information.

Reconfiguration of the entire classification system for hearing aids, including the current Class I and Class II devices, over the counter devices, and personal sound amplification products. The proposed hearing aid classifications are OTC, Prescription, Bone Conduction and Air Conduction.

Require greater pre-market approval for new and emerging technologies.

Here is what is missing or lacking from the bill that you need to be aware of:

Require a return for credit capacity regulated by the Federal Trade Commission (FTC). This does not currently exist in FDA regulations or in every state hearing aid dispensing law but needs to be addressed in the final bill.

Requirement for audiometric prescription from an audiologist or physician (consistent with the Eyeglass Rule in optometry) prior to purchase of a non-OTC hearing aid. This would include otoscopy and pure tone audiometry and would be regulated by the FTC.

*The “prescription” requirement is not defined well and there is zero FTC engagement, so hopefully this will be remedied in the final ruling.

Eliminate all manufacturers limitations on the sale of hearing aids as long as the FDA and/or FTC regulations are met. This could allow for remote, direct to consumer delivery of every class of device, using telehealth. This too is consistent with the Eyeglass and Contact Lens Rules.

*This is also not clear yet, because it revolves around the “prescription” itself.

BUILD BACK BETTER ACT

On November 19, 2021, the U.S. House of Representatives passed an amended version of the Build Back Better Act (H.R. 5376) that includes several hearing-related provisions that would impact Medicare patients and audiologists, if ultimately enacted. The bill includes provisions that would add coverage of treatment services provided by audiologists and would reclassify audiologists as practitioners, two of the three provisions in the Medicare Audiologist Access and Services Act (MAASA).

MAASA was introduced on May 19, 2021 to accomplish the following:

Allow direct access to audiological services for Medicare beneficiaries. Currently, a referral from their primary care physician is required for coverage of diagnostic only services (includes testing only, no coverage for hearing aids or services provided by audiologists that are within their scope of practice).

Reclassifying audiologists as practitioners, which is consistent with other Medicare recognized non-physician providers. This would allow audiologists to furnish services via telehealth permanently, which is only partially permitted during the Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19) public health emergency.

Streamlining Medicare coverage policies so that audiologists can provide the full range of Medicare-covered diagnostic and treatment services that correspond to their scope of practice.

The Build Back Better Act does not include a provision to eliminate the physician order requirement for Medicare beneficiaries as a condition of coverage of audiology services.

NOW FOR THE PART THAT WE HAVE ALL BEEN WAITING FOR….HEARING AID COVERAGE THROUGH MEDICARE!!!

Here is what the bill currently states:

Coverage of hearing aids for individuals with moderately-severe to profound hearing loss in one or both ears once every five years if furnished through a written order by an audiologist, physician, or other practitioner for devices that are determined appropriate by the U.S. Secretary of Health and Human Services.

Here are my initial thoughts based on this wording. It appears that there will be a certain degree of hearing loss required for Medicare to cover the hearing aids. Which means they will require a comprehensive audiogram completed by an audiologist. Many of my patient’s hearing loss does not fall into the moderately-severe to profound hearing loss range. Therefore, it may not cover hearing aids for all beneficiaries, unless the hearing loss requirement is met.

Before you get all excited about the fact that Medicare may cover the cost of hearing aids, pay attention to the wording of coverage. It may not cover it for everyone, and it may not cover the entire cost. If reclassifying audiologists as practitioners does not happen, then the services provided to fit those hearing devices may not be covered.

Here’s another fact that you may not fully understand. If hearing devices are covered, which is common for some private insurance plans now, the services audiologists provide to fit and help maintain those devices are not always covered and is the responsibility of the patient. This includes in-office repairs, clean and checks, reprogramming, earmolds, and many other services that audiologists provide to keep their patients hearing well throughout the life of the device.

So, what’s next??

Many audiologists and audiology organizations such as the American Academy of Audiology (AAA), American Doctors of Audiology (ADA), and American Speech-Language-Hearing Association (ASHA) are advocating for further amendments to improve beneficiary access to audiology services and to support consumer protection, transparency, competition, and patient choice.

There is a 90-day deadline for comments for the OTC bill that ends on January 18, 2002. Anyone can post a comment on the bill by visiting the following site:

https://www.federalregister.gov/documents/2021/10/20/2021-22473/medical-devices-ear-nose-and-throat-devices-establishing-over-the-counter-hearing-aids

I’ve made my comments and suggestions and hope that all audiologists and those concerned with this issue will comment as well.

I promise I’ll keep you posted of further updates as time progresses. And if you need help with your hearing – DON’T WAIT – call 4 Bridges Audiology today and make your appointment to start improving your hearing and your life!

DIABETES & ITS EFFECTS ON OUR HEARING & BALANCE

Tue, 02 Nov 2021 12:33:15 GMT

DIABETES & ITS EFFECTS ON OUR HEARING & BALANCE

If you’ve read any of my previous blogs and posts, you know that hearing loss not only compromises communication, but it makes those with hearing loss more susceptible to social isolation, fatigue, anxiety, and depression. Hearing loss also increases our risk of falls, cognitive decline/dementia, and hospitalization.

Since November is National Diabetes Month, I wanted to discuss how diabetes can affect our hearing and balance. Diabetes can lead to nerve damage that affects many parts of the body. Most of us know that diabetes can affect your hands, feet, eyes, and kidneys – but many do not know that it also affects your ears. The same microvascular changes which lead to nephropathy and retinopathy in diabetic patients most likely lead to damage in the microstructure of the cochlea (article by Erin Piker & colleagues).

The Audiology Project (TAP), an organization founded to raise awareness of the link between chronic disease and hearing and balance disorders, prompted the Centers for Disease Control (CDC) to consider recommendation for hearing testing to be included in the patient guide, Take Charge of Your Diabetes in 2016. Last year, the American Diabetes Association (ADA) recognized hearing loss in its referral criteria for initial diabetes care management in its Standards of Medical Care in Diabetes-2021.

Here are some facts you need to know:

Hearing loss is twice as common in persons with diabetes and can present itself earlier in life compared to those without diabetes.

Prediabetes (blood sugar levels higher than normal but not high enough yet to have type 2 diabetes) increases your risk of hearing loss by 30% compared to people with normal blood sugar levels.

Other comorbidities (cardiovascular disease, hypertension, neuropathies, etc.) can increase the risk of hearing loss even more.

Diabetes also affects our balance and doubles our chance of falling.

Recommendations:

The CDC now recommends a comprehensive audiological evaluation for all patients upon diagnosis of diabetes with retests annually.

This allows us to establish a baseline, and with periodic monitoring, it enables early identification so that Audiologists can provide education, prevention, and treatment/management strategies.

Ask yourself the following questions. If you answer “yes” to question 1 or 2 or “no” to questions 3 through 6, it is recommended you schedule a diagnostic audiological evaluation with an audiologist.

1. Do you or your family perceive any change in your hearing?

2. Do you have hearing difficulty in quiet or noise?

3. Have you had your hearing tested in the past 2 years?

4. Do you know how diabetes can affect your hearing?

5. Do you know what to do if you perceive a change in hearing?

6. Do you know how to reduce your risk for hearing loss?

If you are experiencing balance problems, report this to your doctor or call an audiologist for dizziness/balance testing. If you are a physician, a simple dizziness screening questionnaire can help in determining which diabetic patients need referrals for these types of evaluations.

What to do next:

Call 4 Bridges Audiology at (423) 521-3277 today and schedule your appointment to have your hearing evaluated if you have any of these symptoms, have diabetes, or prediabetes.

References and Links for More Information:

https://www.theaudiologyproject.com/latest-news/2021/10/10/the-cdc-and-ada-officially-recognize-diabetes-amp-hearing-loss

https://www.cdc.gov/diabetes/managing/diabetes-hearing-loss.html

https://static1.squarespace.com/static/5b7deefb1aef1dc9d406b2e8/t/5f52eede5ff56448e951280b/1599270634638/What+you+need+to+know+ADCES+9.2020.pdf

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jubm14tqBKU

October is Audiology Awareness Month

Tue, 05 Oct 2021 17:13:11 GMT

At 4 Bridges Audiology, We Put Our Patients First

I often get the sly remarks and jokes when I tell people I am an Audiologist. The “What?” or “Huh?” response and, to be honest, I have fallen for them more often than I would like to admit. What has come to my attention over the last 15 years in the audiology world is that often people do not realize everything an audiologist can do for them. Yes, we sell and fit hearing aids – but there is much more to our profession that just selling a product.

I only posted 3 blogs at the beginning of this year and then I totally dropped the ball. I have made a promise to myself that I am going to be better and making monthly blog posts to educate my community about the importance of hearing healthcare. Since October is National Audiology Awareness Month, I am going to take this month to educate you on all the services…and products…that can be offered by audiologists. It will be a brief touch on the most important services that audiologists can provide under their scope of practice. Then I will expand on some of these topics in my upcoming blogs.

In my first blog, I discussed some of the reasons why we don’t talk about hearing loss and some basic facts and statistics about hearing loss. In my second blog, I discussed how to recognize the signs/symptoms of hearing loss; the different types of hearing loss; common causes of hearing loss; and some of the risks associated with untreated hearing loss. If you missed any of those blogs, check them out by clicking on the links below.

https://www.4bridgesaudiology.com/why-no-one-talks-about-hearing-loss

https://www.4bridgesaudiology.com/so-lets-talk-about-hearing-loss

There is no doubt people are concerned about their health. Often, though, they don’t think about the importance of hearing health. Every audiology practice or hearing center will not offer all the services possible based on our scope of practice, so it is important to research the office you are using to ensure treatment of any problems you may be having. At 4 Bridges Audiology, we always put our patients’ best interests at the forefront of our decision-making process. If you need a service we do not provide, we will help you find the provider best suited for your needs!

Not only can Audiologists test for and treat hearing loss, but we can also educate patients about safe versus unsafe levels for listening. We utilize tools and share resources that empower patients to protect their hearing. We remove wax and possible foreign objects from patient’s ears every day. We offer custom molds for hearing protection, water protection, and in-the-ear monitors for musicians. We even have custom molds to block out your spouse’s snoring at night. I like to call those marriage savers! We also take impressions of your ears to send to the company of your choice for the device you are looking to purchase.

Audiologists can evaluate and screen for tinnitus and sound sensitivity issues, auditory processing disorders, and balance/dizziness problems. We can also facilitate aural rehabilitation efforts for hearing loss, auditory processing disorders, tinnitus, sound sensitivity, and certain balance issues. Some audiologists even offer industrial audiology testing services to businesses, factories, etc. We often make regular visits to assisted living facilities and nursing homes to give access to hearing healthcare without having to leave your place of residence.

Now that we have touched on the basic services Audiologists offer, I’d like to touch base on something I am sure most of you are aware of. Since October is National Audiology Awareness Month, there is no time like the present to lay it all out on the table for discussion.

The landscape of hearing devices is about to drastically change. It’s already changing! I will not go into great length on this now, but in a future blog we will talk about the Over-the-Counter Hearing Aid Act that is moving forward as we speak. I think this legislation is going to be both good and bad for various reasons. Most of the current hearing devices, called Personal Sound Amplification Products (PSAPs) are not great. They amplify everything and claim to make you hear a pin drop across the room – but no one wants to hear that! Patient experiences with these devices have mainly been negative and the devices have not been very helpful in improving speech understanding in their daily lives. So even if it is an inexpensive option, it proves the saying that “you get what you pay for.”

There are a few negative consequences of this legislation that I see for the people we serve at 4 Bridges Audiology. One of the biggest problems I see is that people can purchase these devices when they may not actually need them, because they haven’t been seen by an audiologist for testing. There have been countless times that patients have come into my office with complaints of sudden hearing loss and the only problem is ear canals full or wax, or an ear infection that is temporary and will clear up with medical treatment.

There can also be more serious reasons that you may have hearing loss that could require quick, immediate medical treatment, or observation on a regular basis. For example, a patient came to me years ago with hearing loss that was significantly worse in their left ear. When I looked in their left ear, I knew immediately that it was a glomus tumor. The eardrum was literally purple and bulging! A glomus tumor is a benign (noncancerous) tumor found in the head and neck but can be locally invasive and requires surgical removal because they grow into the middle ear and brain. This patient was seen by one of the best otolaryngologists at Vanderbilt and eventually the tumor was completely removed, and hearing was improved!

My concern here really focuses on the patient – what if there is something that could be quickly treated or that might be more serious in nature and requires medical treatment, and it is simply missed because that person did not have an initial hearing exam by an audiologist?

This legislation will allow more companies to offer great hearing devices at a much lower price point. There are already companies doing it well and I give them props. We will discuss these in another blog, I promise. This is going to help those who haven’t been able to afford hearing aids because the cost has been too high, with very little to no insurance coverage for hearing devices.

But let me tell you something else I have learned in the last decade of being an Audiologist…it mainly comes down to the service that we provide that keeps patients hearing well and liking their hearing aids. Cleaning, programming, verification, repairs, counseling, aural rehabilitation, balance testing and treatment – these are the ways we help those with any type of hearing problem – GREAT SERVICE AND EXPERTISE!

Ok…it’s time to wrap this up! I think I just gave myself enough topics to talk about monthly for the next 2 years. I have so much to share with you! The world of Audiology is changing, and I am going to have to change as well. There will be some very exciting things happening at 4 Bridges Audiology in 2022 and I cannot wait for these things to launch! We will be branching out and offering some new services that I think our community can really benefit from in terms of hearing healthcare. Follow us on Facebook and Instagram to stay informed about what’s going on at 4 Bridges Audiology!

World Hearing Day

Mon, 01 Mar 2021 15:20:12 GMT

World Hearing Day

MARCH BLOG: POST ON MARCH 3, 2021

Today, March 3 is World Hearing Day! In 2007, the World Health Organization designated March 3 as World Hearing Health Day in order to raise awareness to the growing numbers of those suffering from hearing loss and the importance of hearing health care. In 2017, the NIH National Institute on Deafness & Other Communication Disorders stated that 48 million Americans suffer some type of hearing loss . And, in 2020, the WHO stated that approximately 466 million people worldwide have disabling hearing loss—34 million of these are children. It’s estimated that, by 2050, approximately 900 million people worldwide (or, one in every 10) will have disabling hearing loss. The numbers continue to grow annually.

During the pandemic, many have recognized hearing difficulties due to masks. A number of these are people who have been compensating for hearing difficulties through lip reading and use of visual cues. Some realized they were lip reading but also denied they had hearing loss while others have not recognized the extent of their decreased hearing acuity until they could no longer read lips.

As Audiologists, we are focused on educating the public on hearing loss, diagnosis, prevention and treatment. “The growing health problem of hearing loss is often unrecognized in U.S. adults, adolescents and children and it leads to a long list of problems including depression, isolation, academic delays, impaired communication and cognitive decline. We are grateful that this awareness day was created to shine a light on the significance of hearing loss,” said Angela Shoup, president of the American Academy of Audiology. Shoup is also the executive director of the Callier Center for Communication Disorders and a professor of Speech, Language and Hearing in the School of Behavioral and Brain Sciences at the University of Texas at Dallas. “We also look to this day to help educate the public on the importance of seeing an audiologist for professional evaluation and management of hearing and balance difficulties.”

As the baby boomer population ages, more Americans are facing hearing health challenges. According to the National Institutes of Health NIDCD, approximately 20 percent of American adults aged 20 to 69 have some trouble with hearing and approximately 28.8 million could benefit from the use of hearing aids.

While age is still the greatest factor in hearing loss, many younger people also experience hearing problems due to a number of factors, including exposure to loud music and noises, both recreational and occupational. Among adults aged 70 and older with hearing loss who could benefit from hearing aids, fewer than one in three (30 percent) has ever used them. With adults aged 20 to 69 only approximately 16 percent of those who would benefit from hearing aids has ever used them.

“Audiologists are the experts in hearing health,” Shoup explained. “Anyone suspecting a hearing issue should see an audiologist who will complete a careful evaluation to gauge the impact of hearing difficulties on quality of life and activities of daily living, and complete testing to assess sensitivity to sounds of various pitches, ability to understand complex sound patterns such as speech, and physiologic evaluations of various structures in the auditory pathway. This information can then be used to develop individualized treatment recommendations that may include device selection and optimization, as well as supportive counseling and guidance through a customized hearing rehabilitation plan.”

Some signs of hearing loss may include:

- Suddenly having to turn up the volume of the television, radio, or stereo and having

other family members complain that the volume is too loud.

- Difficulty understanding people speaking to you and asking people to repeat themselves.

- Difficulty with phone conversations and understanding the other person.

- Sudden inability to hear the door bell, the dog barking, and other household sounds.

- People telling you that you speak too loudly.

- Ringing in the ears.

School-aged children with hearing loss will sometimes exhibit poor school performance because they can’t understand the teacher assignments or classroom interactions. If hearing loss has been present from a young age, they often don’t recognize the loss and can’t identify the problem.

If you are concerned about your hearing, or someone you love, and are ready to take the next step, call the office today to schedule your hearing evaluation and discuss solutions to live your best life!

SO, LET’S TALK ABOUT HEARING LOSS!

Wed, 10 Feb 2021 17:45:18 GMT

FEBRUARY: SO, LET’S TALK ABOUT HEARING LOSS!

Evidence of how hearing devices can improve your quality of life are overwhelming. As mentioned in the previous post, untreated hearing loss is associated with a variety of health complications, either directly or indirectly. Hearing loss is the third most common physical condition in the U.S. and affects approximately 15% of Americans.

Here is another interesting fact…only 16 percent of physicians routinely screen for hearing loss. Most of us get our vision tested annually and have dental visits twice a year, yet we continue to ignore our hearing problems and put it off for years.

One of the main issues is that hearing loss is an invisible condition. It most often occurs gradually over many years and can be attributed to other problems, like confusion or personality changes as people age. It is something that people can hide by using other senses and cues to fill in the blanks when they miss something that is said.

Some of the things I will talk about in this post might seem like common sense, and they are, but let me give you some basic knowledge about hearing loss and its effects on our lives.

LEARN TO RECOGNIZE THE SIGNS :

Asking people to repeat themselves

Difficulty hearing in background noise

The feeling that people mumble when they speak

Turning up the volume when watching TV

TYPES OF HEARING LOSS:

Conductive : hearing loss that involves the outer ear (pinna, ear canal, eardrum) and/or middle ear (ossicles). This type of hearing loss prevents sound waves from being carried from the eardrum to the inner ear. This type of hearing loss can often be treated with medication or surgery.

Sensorineural : hearing loss, often referred to as nerve deafness, occurring when there is damage to the inner ear or cochlea. This type of hearing loss is almost always permanent but can be treated with hearing devices.

Mixed : hearing loss that is a combination of both conductive and sensorineural hearing loss. This occurs when there is damage to both the outer/middle ear and the inner ear. Treatment may involve a combination of medications, surgery, and hearing devices.

COMMON CAUSES OF HEARING LOSS:

Aging: also known as presbycusis, affects an estimated one-third of adults by the age of 65. Presbycusis is irreversible and can range from mild to profound. It occurs due to loss of hair cells in the inner ear and generally affects the high frequency area.

Noise exposure: results in the damage of the hair cells in the inner ear that exceed safe listening levels (85 decibels). It can occur suddenly after one exposure or gradually over a period of time. This is the only type of hearing loss that can be prevented with the use of hearing protection devices.

Earwax buildup

Ear infections

Abnormal bone growth in the middle ear known as otosclerosis

Ototoxic medications (there are over 200 that can cause temporary or permanent hearing loss)

Meniere’s Disease

Benign tumors known as acoustic neuromas

Trauma to the head or ears caused by accident or injury

Research has also found a strong correlation between several health conditions and hearing loss such as diabetes, hypertension, obesity, cardiovascular disease, and sleep apnea.

SOME STATISTICS:

Approximately 15% of American adults (38 million) aged 18 and older report some degree of hearing loss.

1 in 3 people are age 65 and older

1 in 2 people are 75 and older

2 to 3 out of every 1000 newborns

15% of children between the ages of 6 and 19

1 in 6 baby boomers

1 in 4 Generation Xers

RISKS OF UNTREATED HEARING LOSS:

Untreated hearing loss contributes to a number of social, psychological, mental, and physical health complications:

Falls : falls are a leading cause of injury and death in people over the age of 65. Those with mild hearing loss are three times more likely to experience a fall, and that risk increases almost one and a half times for each additional 10 decibels of hearing loss.

Depression : hearing loss increases social withdrawal and isolation, two factors that may cause depression. Thirty percent of those with untreated hearing loss report feeling depression.

Dementia : people with mild hearing loss are twice as likely to develop dementia, while those with moderate hearing loss have three times a greater risk and those with severe hearing loss are five times more likely to develop dementia.

Okay, I think that is enough facts for the day. My hope is that if you seriously consider some of the things mentioned here that you will schedule an appointment for a hearing evaluation TODAY! Let’s make hearing screenings a part of our routine health care by talking to our loved ones and physicians.

WHY NO ONE TALKS ABOUT HEARING LOSS…

Fri, 08 Jan 2021 19:43:10 GMT

WHY NO ONE TALKS ABOUT HEARING LOSS…

As an Audiologist, I am often dumbfounded by the fact that no one talks about hearing loss. Maybe it is because the people that need to be talking about it have hearing loss themselves and do not understand half of what is being said. Maybe it is because our primary care physicians are not talking about it, and believe me, hearing is very rarely brought up in a yearly check up by the physician. Maybe it is because there has been a stigma tied to hearing aids for decades. And the cost…let’s not even discuss the cost of hearing aids yet. We will save that for another time! Whatever the reason, I have started this monthly post so that we can discuss hearing loss and solutions that everyone can apply to improve their hearing.

What I want you to understand today, is that your hearing is important. We have our 5 senses, and if you ask me, hearing is second in line to sight. We depend on our hearing to communicate with our family, friends, doctors, cashiers at every store – almost every single interaction we have throughout the day relies on our ability to communicate with someone! Most importantly I want you to know that hearing loss is treatable, and the list of options are plentiful!

So here are a few facts about hearing loss that I hope will help you understand how important your hearing is to your overall health and well-being. It is a topic that should be discussed more freely with our loved ones and our physicians.

Hearing loss is one of the most common chronic health conditions that we face. About 40 million Americans have some degree of hearing loss, yet only 12% of those under the age of 69 use hearing aids. Hearing loss can be a symptom of some other disease or disorder, and it can also cause other diseases and disorders.

Research at Johns Hopkins from several years ago showed that untreated hearing loss increases the chances of dementia by up to 50%. This study also showed an increase of falls risk, high blood pressure, and cardiovascular disease. Other studies have shown increases in depression and anxiety if hearing loss is untreated.

More recent research has shown that hearing loss in midlife is the most consequential modifiable risk factor associated with dementia. Did you hear that? Let me repeat it… HEARING LOSS IS THE MOST CONSEQUENTIAL MODIFIABLE RISK FACTOR ASSOCIATED WITH DEMENTIA! A study showed that the risk of a dementia diagnosis within 3 years of hearing loss was 18% lower in those using hearing aids.

Here is the last statistic I’ll throw at you – it takes an average of 7-10 years from the first signs of hearing loss so someone to take the first step to purchase hearing aids. So, if your chances of a dementia diagnosis increase by 18% in 3 years from the first signs of hearing loss, what will 10 years do? 20 years? I believe the risks are too hard to ignore.

So, if hearing loss is treatable and could possibly prevent other problems down the road, why would you wait another second to seek treatment? EARLY INTERVENTION IS EFFECTIVE!

If you have never had your hearing tested and you are age 55 or older, now is the time to get a baseline to see where your hearing lies. If you are noticing any signs of hearing loss, now is the time to schedule an appointment to test your hearing and talk about options. If a family member or friend is showing signs of hearing loss, now is the time to talk to them about it and encourage them to take the first steps in getting tested.

As Helen Keller said, “Blindness cuts us off from things, but deafness cuts us off from people.” I think we have all realized recently how important it is to stay connected to the ones we love, especially when we cannot physically be near them. Start improving your communication with your loved ones today by taking the first step to hearing your best and living your best life!