Most people are diligent about scheduling their annual eye exams, dental cleanings, and other routine health checkups, but they often overlook their hearing unless there’s an obvious problem. While it’s natural to visit a general practitioner (GP) for most health concerns, when it comes to your hearing, you may need a more specialized evaluation. GPs may have a general understanding of ear health, but they often lack the in-depth knowledge needed to fully assess your auditory system, diagnose any hearing loss, and recommend appropriate treatments.

That’s where a hearing specialist comes in.

General Practitioners vs. Hearing Specialists

A hearing specialist is a healthcare professional trained to evaluate and treat hearing loss and related issues such as:

• Evaluating hearing loss and its causes.
• Fitting hearing aids tailored to individual needs.
• Managing balance issues and tinnitus (ringing in the ears).

While general practitioners can treat common ear infections and provide basic advice, they don’t specialize in the intricate workings of the ear. On the other hand, hearing professionals dedicate their time to understanding hearing problems and offering tailored solutions, from hearing aids to auditory rehabilitation.

Why Choose a Hearing Specialist?

Expertise and Training

Hearing professionals undergo extensive education and training specifically related to ear and hearing health. Given how complex the ear is, it’s important to trust someone who specializes in hearing care. These professionals are certified and licensed to provide care for hearing loss and other auditory issues in the state where they practice.

Comprehensive Hearing Health Assessment

The ear is a complex organ with many small parts working together to help you hear. If even one part isn’t functioning properly, you may experience symptoms like hearing loss, tinnitus, dizziness, or ear pain. A hearing specialist will not only check for hearing loss but will also conduct a thorough evaluation to identify the root cause of your symptoms and ensure you get the right treatment moving forward.

Earwax Removal and Hearing Health

One common issue that hearing professionals address is earwax buildup. Hearing specialists have the tools to safely remove earwax, restoring your hearing without requiring a referral. Attempting to remove earwax at home with cotton swabs or other objects can push it deeper into the ear and cause damage. A specialist will use professional instruments or earwax removal solutions to clean out any blockages effectively.

Tailored Hearing Aid Solutions

If you need hearing aids, a specialist can help you select the best option based on your specific needs. Whether it’s an in-the-canal (ITC), behind-the-ear (BTE), or in-the-ear (ITE) model, they will explain the advantages and disadvantages of each. Certain devices even come with features like app connectivity for easy control, directional microphones for noisy environments, and noise-limiting technologies to enhance clarity.

Ongoing Support and Care

Your hearing specialist will work with you to ensure you receive the right treatment for your hearing or ear-related issues. From earwax removal to inner ear infection treatment, they’ll provide expert care. They will also guide you through how a hearing aid can improve your quality of life. From your initial consultation to follow-up appointments and routine checkups and hearing aid cleaning, they’ll be there every step of the way.

Personalized Treatment

Hearing loss can stem from various causes, such as aging, noise exposure, or medical conditions. A hearing specialist is equipped to develop a personalized plan for you that may include hearing aids, assistive listening devices, or rehabilitation programs.

Choose Roger Clark for Your Hearing Care Needs

If you’re experiencing hearing loss, it’s crucial to see the right expert. At Roger Clark Hearing Centers, we offer top-tier treatments, including tinnitus management, hearing evaluations, and rehabilitation programs. Our specialists will ensure you receive the best possible care, helping you improve your hearing and overall quality of life.

Hearing aids are a significant investment, and taking care of them is crucial to ensure they continue working properly. Regular cleaning and maintenance can not only extend the life of your devices but also help you avoid the costs associated with frequent repairs or replacements. Here’s a step-by-step guide to cleaning your hearing aids and keeping them in optimal condition.

Cleaning Your Hearing Aids: What You Need

Before starting your hearing aid cleaning routine, gather the following supplies:

• Hearing Aid Cleaning Brush: Use this small brush to remove earwax and debris from the crevices of your hearing aid.
• Tube Cleaning Tool: For behind-the-ear (BTE) hearing aids with tubing, this tool helps maintain a clear, undistorted sound by keeping the tubes clean.
• Wax Pick or Wire Loop: Essential for removing stubborn wax from hard-to-reach areas.
• Earmold Tubing Blower: Helps keep tubing dry in BTE models.
• Microfiber Cloth: A soft cloth to wipe down your hearing aids without causing scratches.
• Hearing Aid Multi-Tool: Handy for cleaning while on the go, these tools serve multiple purposes.
• Hearing Aid Dryer: A device designed to remove moisture from your hearing aids overnight.

Cleaning In-the-Ear (ITE) Hearing Aids

Cleaning your in-the-ear hearing aids is simple but essential for maintaining their performance. Follow these steps:

1. Inspect the Hearing Aids: Start by checking the microphone ports and wax filter for buildup. These areas are most prone to wax accumulation.
2. Wipe Down the Surface: Use a microfiber cloth to gently clean the exterior of the hearing aid, removing any oils or debris.
3. Clear Wax Buildup: Use a wax pick or wire loop to carefully remove wax from the small openings. Be careful not to push the wax further into the device.
4. Check the Wax Filter: If your model has a wax filter, inspect it for blockage. Replace the filter if it appears clogged.
5. Change the Wax Filter Regularly: It’s recommended to change the wax filter once a month, or as directed by the manufacturer. If you produce more earwax, you may need to replace it more frequently.
6. Brush Off Loose Debris: Use the cleaning brush to gently remove any remaining debris around the microphone and speaker areas.
7. Use a Hearing Aid Dryer: To remove any moisture, place your hearing aids in a dryer or dehumidifier overnight.

Cleaning Behind-the-Ear (BTE) Hearing Aids

BTE hearing aids, with their domes and earmolds, require additional attention. Here’s how to properly clean them:

1. Inspect the Domes and Earmolds: Look for visible debris or wax buildup.
2. Wipe Down the Earmolds: Use a microfiber cloth to clean the surfaces.
3. Detach and Clean Earmolds: If your hearing aids have removable earmolds, take them off and clean them separately. Use a wax pick or wire loop to clear away any stubborn wax.
4. Disinfect the Earmolds: If the earmolds are non-electronic, you can wash them in a mild soap solution. Rinse them thoroughly and let them air dry before reattaching.
5. Clean the Tubing: For models with tubing, use the tube cleaning tool to remove any obstructions and then dry it using a tubing blower.
6. Brush the Microphone and Receiver: Gently brush away any debris from the microphone and receiver areas.
7. Inspect and Clean the Hearing Aid Body: Pay close attention to the hearing aid body, particularly the microphone ports. Use the cleaning brush for a thorough cleaning.
8. Replace Filters and Domes as Needed: Check if the wax filter or domes need replacement and change them accordingly.
9. Use a Hearing Aid Dryer: To prevent moisture buildup, place your hearing aids in a dryer or dehumidifier overnight.

How to Disinfect Hearing Aids

To sanitize your hearing aids, use a cleaning solution specifically designed for hearing aids. Avoid alcohol or other household cleaners, as these can damage the devices. Spray the solution onto a soft tissue or paper towel, and gently wipe the hearing aid and earpiece.

How Often Should You Clean Your Hearing Aids?

Hearing aids are exposed to earwax, debris, and dust daily, so it’s essential to clean them every day. If your hearing aids come with a wax guard or trap, it’s important to replace these components regularly. Consult your hearing specialist for specific instructions on how often to change them based on your individual needs.

The Importance of Routine Cleaning and Care

Regular cleaning is more than just about hygiene—it’s key to ensuring your hearing aids work properly. Earwax buildup can affect sound quality and even damage the device. By following a proactive cleaning routine, you can avoid these issues and catch potential problems before they require costly repairs.

We recommend scheduling a professional cleaning and checkup at least twice a year with your hearing healthcare provider. At Roger Clark Hearing Centers, our team ensures your hearing aids are in optimal working order and makes any necessary adjustments. Contact us today to schedule a professional cleaning or make an appointment online.

We at Roger Clark Hearing assist you in selecting the best hearing aid for your hearing loss, your ears, and your lifestyle.

Any age can have hearing loss. It can create social disengagement. It is linked to mental decline. That’s why it’s known as the silent killer. Selecting the best hearing aid can be scary. But it can help you enjoy life and restore some of your hearing.

Types of Hearing Aid

Hearing Aids Behind-the-Ear (BTE): Pros and cons

1. Versatile and Powerful: BTE hearing aids can be used for mild to profound hearing loss. They have better sound amplification since they have stronger batteries and amplifiers.
2. Durability: These hearing aids are a dependable option because they are sturdy and made to resist normal wear and tear.
3. Ease of Handling: They are easier to handle due to their bigger size, especially for people who have dexterity problems.
4. Connectivity: A lot of BTE models have Bluetooth built in, making it simple to link to other gadgets like TVs and cellphones.

Cons:

1. Visibility: Those looking for a discreet solution may be concerned about the fact that BTE hearing aids are more conspicuous than smaller devices.
2. Comfort: Because they rest behind the ear, some users could find them less comfortable, particularly while wearing glasses or masks.

In-the-Ear (ITE) Hearing Aids

Pros:

1. Custom Fit: ITE hearing aids are created to order to precisely match the curves of your ears, offering a snug and comfortable fit.
2. Discreet: Compared to BTE versions, these hearing aids are less noticeable, providing users with a more covert choice.
3. Convenient functions: ITE hearing aids are modest in size, but they include a lot of functions, like telecoils and directed microphones.
4. Natural Sound Quality: ITE hearing aids can provide a more natural sound quality since they fit within the ear.

Benefits and Drawbacks of Receiver-in-Canal (RIC) Hearing Aids

Pros:

1. Comfortable Fit: The receiver of RIC hearing aid cleaning is positioned just inside the ear canal, making them lightweight and comfortable to wear.
2. Natural Sound Quality: By positioning the receiver inside the canal, the “plugged up” feeling is lessened and a more natural sound is produced.
3. Discreet Appearance: Because the receiver is concealed in the canal and the main body of the aid rests behind the ear, these devices are less obvious.
4. Flexible Power: RIC hearing aids provide varying degrees of amplification, making them appropriate for a broad spectrum of hearing loss.

Cons:

1. Moisture can harm the receiver. The canal exposes it to more moisture and earwax. This may hurt its function and life.
2. Maintenance: To maintain the receiver operating at its best, more regular cleaning and maintenance may be needed.

Are Invisible Hearing Aids the Correct Option for You?

Pros:

1. Use maximum discretion. The least noticeable hearing aids are invisible. They include Completely-in-Canal (CIC) and Invisible-in-Canal (IIC) devices. They give users a subtle option.
2. Natural Sound Localization: They are deeply inserted into the ear canal. This allows for a more natural listening experience. It improves sound localization.
3. Comfort: These hearing aids, which are tailored to fit your ear precisely, can be really cozy to wear.

Your lifestyle, tastes, and hearing needs each play a role. They help in choosing the best hearing aid. BTE hearing aid are good for many hearing losses. They have strong amplification and a robust design. They are for anyone who wants to combine style and utility. ITE hearing aids offer a subtle look and personalized fit. Invisible hearing aids provide max stealth and natural sound. But, they have some feature and battery limits. In contrast, RIC hearing aids combine comfort and natural sound quality. You can choose the best solution for your lifestyle and hearing needs. You can do this by speaking with an audiologist.

When is the right time to obtain a hearing aid?

More than just helping you hear again is possible with hearing aids. Over time, hearing loss may have an impact on your physical and mental health. Better hearing helps protect you. It shields you against mental health issues like anxiety, depression, and cognitive decline. Although it takes time, getting a hearing aid is worth the trouble!

Conclusion

Make sure you get a diagnosis as soon as you feel you may have hearing loss. An ENT physician can examine your ears. They can recommend that you see an audiologist for a complete audiogram. They can arrange more testing as needed. An audiogram assesses your ability to hear. It also shows if you would benefit from a hearing aid. If you struggle to understand speech or have uneven hearing loss, your doctor or the audiologist will probably suggest a hearing aid. To ensure the ideal fit for your hearing aids, if you need them, you should also get an audiogram. Feel free to contact us if you are looking for the best hearing aid services.

The human ear works in a highly complex way. Various mechanisms go on inside our ears, enabling us to hear different types of sounds.

So, if anything goes wrong with your hearing, you tend to become sad and depressed. It also makes it difficult for you to comprehend what people are saying. This prevents you from participating in social events and gradually dissolves you from society.

So, what are the different types of hearing loss? The two common types of hearing loss are sensorineural hearing loss and conductive hearing loss. Simply put, sensorineural results from damage to your inner ear, and conductive hearing loss results from damage to the middle or outer ear. Therefore, this blog will discuss these two types of hearing loss and their symptoms. Continue reading to find out more.

What is sensorineural hearing loss?

Sensorineural hearing loss, or SNHL, is a very common type of hearing loss experienced by people. As mentioned above, it comes from damage to the inner ear. It may also result from damage to the auditory nerve that transfers all the sounds you hear to your brain. When you experience sensorineural hearing loss, you may still be able to listen to some sounds but may find it difficult to comprehend certain sounds.

Sensorineural hearing loss can develop silently and go undetected for a long time. Therefore, it is essential to learn about the symptoms so that you can detect them as soon as possible.

What are the symptoms of sensorineural hearing loss?

• Trouble with hearing certain sounds like F OR S
• Having a tough time hearing high-pitched noises
• Decreasing the ability to listen to someone when they are talking
• Experiencing tinnitus in the ear (ringing, buzzing or roaring)
• Difficulty hearing anyone in noisy spaces

What causes sensorineural hearing loss?

Sensorineural hearing loss happens when the inner ear or auditory nerve is damaged for any reason. Most of the time, it happens because of damage to your ear’s tiny hair cells.

Aging

Your body finds it difficult to keep its cells healthy as you age. This is why ears often lose their function.

Loud noises

Hearing very loud noises can damage your inner ear. This condition is known as noise-induced hearing loss (NIHL). Depending on the sound you hear, it can occur suddenly or gradually over a period of time. If it were deafening, the damage would be quicker.

Ototoxicity

Ototoxicity refers to hearing loss caused by medication. This means that certain medicines damage your inner ear as and when you take them.

Tumors

Any abnormal growth in the ear can pressure the tiny hair cells in the ear drum and inner ear. When these cells cannot move freely, hearing can be affected. This can happen with both cancerous and benign tumors.

Trauma to the head

Any kind of blunt trauma to the head can damage your inner ear

Diseases

Autoimmune diseases like Lyme disease, Rheumatoid arthritis, Lupus, and Fibromyalgia can cause the inner ear to grow in size. They can also obstruct blood flow and damage the inner ear. One disease, Autoimmune Inner Ear Disease, or AIED, is specifically known for attacking the inner ear.

Infections

Infections like mumps, measles, and meningitis can cause temporary or permanent hearing damage. Such infections also include congenital cytomegalovirus.

What is conductive hearing loss?

Conductive hearing loss, or CHL, happens when sounds fail to reach your inner ear. This makes it difficult for you to hear any sound around you. When this happens, something in the middle of the outer ear is blocking sounds from reaching the inner ear. If you experience conductive hearing loss, you may find type of  hearing aids soft sounds and even noisy conversations complex.

What are the symptoms of conductive hearing loss?

The symptoms of CHL can vary according to the severity and the cause. Some people with conductive hearing loss also experience pain along with hearing loss. Following are a few symptoms of conductive hearing loss.

• Dizziness
• Buzzing, ringing or humming in the ears (Tinnitus)
• You may feel like your ears are plugged up
• Pain in one ear or both ears
• Difficulty hearing anybody talking
• Your voice may sound different to you
• Ears might feel like they are being pressurized

What are the causes of conductive hearing loss?

As mentioned above, anything that blocks your middle or outer ear can lead to CHL. The causes of conductive hearing loss are discussed below:

• Tumors (benign)
• Foreign things in the ear
• Too much earwax
• Inflammation

Conclusion

This was all about sensorineural and conductive hearing loss. Thankfully, help is at hand for both cases. Contact us at Roger Clark Hearing for the best hearing aids.

From their modest beginnings as basic sound amplifiers, hearing aids have advanced significantly. Today’s prescription hearing aids are more powerful and discrete. They also have helpful communication features that streamline daily interactions.

This article examines some of the most innovative features of today’s hearing aids waco. It explains how they can significantly improve the lives of people with hearing loss.

Acquiring knowledge about these critical innovations is the first step. They offer significant benefits. They will help you find the hearing loss remedies you deserve.

Important Information Regarding Hearing Aid Technology

The technology of today’s hearing aids makes listening more enjoyable. However, did you know they also support active lives and help with daily interactions? We’ve included all the information you require concerning hearing aid technology below. We also enumerate the numerous advantages that these developments offer deaf individuals.

1. DSP, or digital signal processing.

Treatment for hearing loss changed in 1996. That’s when digital signal processing (DSP) tech was added to hearing aids. In actuality, DSP is still developing today. Also, much of the hearing aid technology in this book is possible thanks to this foundation.

DSP converts sound waves to digital signals. It then evaluates, processes, and optimizes the signals to fit your hearing needs. The whole thing happens in real time, with noises changing practically instantaneously.

2. Microphones that adjust their pickup pattern to target specific sounds.

Modern remedies for hearing loss rely heavily on advances in directional microphone technology. These are used in hearing aids.

Omnidirectional microphones are the standard type of hearing aid microphone. They pick up noises from all around you. Instead, you can focus on specific sounds from one direction. This is done with adaptive directional microphones. 

3. Algorithms for the Reduction of Noise

Many modern hearing aids have advanced noise reduction algorithms. These algorithms detect and cancel out distracting background noise, such as the din and bustle of a busy restaurant or the hum of an air conditioner. The algorithms work by boosting important frequencies, which are important to sounds like speech. They also reduce the amplification of frequencies connected to background noise.

4. Algorithms for the Reduction of Feedback

Similarly, many hearing aids today reduce and remove feedback sounds. They do so using different methods. The hearing aid takes action to stop a possible feedback loop. It acts before the noise starts. Phase cancellation is seen as one of the best techniques. It is efficient for minimizing feedback. The hearing aid cancels out the feedback frequency. It does this by adding an opposite-phase sound wave (anti-phase). It does this when it detects feedback. It accomplishes all of this without compromising the concentrated tones’ overall loudness.

5. Batteries that can be recharged.

Rechargeable batteries are a significant improvement in hearing aid technology. They will make many lives more accessible and less stressful. Replacing batteries for rechargeable hearing aids costs a lot. But it removes the need for backups. Alternatively, you can just charge your hearing aids for the entire night. This will give you the convenience of a fully charged battery. Some newer models can last up to 51 hours. 

Rechargeable hearing aids make sense in the modern world. Smartphones and other electronics need regular charging. Many rechargeable hearing aids include charging cases. When not in use, these cases charge your gadgets and offer a convenient and safe place to store them.

6. Subtle Hearing Aids

Prescription hearing aids are now smaller and harder to see than ever, but most of them use the latest technology. When worn, discreet hearing aids are meant to be hard to see, but they are still powerful. 

·       The processors, microphones, and receivers are smaller.

·       This lets hearing aids include these technologies.

·       They can keep their inconspicuous appearance.

·       Usually smaller, they are made to fit snugly inside your ear canal.

·       Many models are practically unnoticeable to other people.

7. Personalized settings for hearing aids.

A significant advance in hearing aid technology is the addition of configurable settings. They are meant to match individual needs. The majority of hearing aids have multiple pre-programmed settings. Then, as a user, you may adjust the settings to fit your environment. You can do this by switching between them automatically or pressing a button. Hearing aids have adjustable settings.

They may be ideal if you need more volume in certain situations. 

We can tailor custom hearing aid settings to meet your needs. They work the same as default settings. This adaptability enables you to tailor your hearing aids to suit particular circumstances. This way, you can join talks and events without feeling disturbed.

8. Bluetooth technology for hearing aids.

Bluetooth wireless came recently. It is another advance in hearing aid tech. Bluetooth hearing aids can sync with many devices. They become tools for multiple purposes. They go beyond just helping with hearing. Your entertainment devices’ audio can stream to your ears through your hearing aids. This is thanks to Bluetooth. The feature has minimal feedback and background noise. It offers better sound quality. The sound is more immersive because the audio plays through your hearing aids.

9. Connectivity with Smartphones

The pairing of Bluetooth technology with hearing aids has led to notable developments. They include the ability to connect directly to your smartphone. Connecting smartphones to hearing aids offers the most user convenience and control. You can use a mobile app to check battery life. You can also change custom settings and volume levels. 

10. Cordless earphone add-ons.

Bluetooth technology makes it easy to connect to smartphones and other personal devices. It also lets you use many wireless accessories. Most wireless hearing aid accessories are simple to use. They provide a strong and stable connection for clear sound. This is true even when you’re far away. Among the most well-liked wireless accessories for hearing aids are:

·       TV Streamer lets you stream audio to your hearing aids from your TV or other audio source.

·       This microphone is for tables. It is meant to help you hear better with your hearing aids. It picks up certain voices in crowded areas and over noise.

·       Clip on the microphone. Attach it to the other person’s clothing. Then, you will immediately hear them through your hearing aids.

·       The remote controller changes hearing aid cleaning settings and volume. It does so without interrupting ongoing discussions or activities.

Just talk into your smartphone to translate your words into your chosen language. The software will do the rest. The system recognizes a foreign language. Then, it translates the words into your dialect. You can hear the results clearly with your hearing aids. 

Examine the benefits of the most recent advances in hearing aid technology.

There has never been a better time to find the ideal hearing loss solution. Hearing aid tech can improve your life in many ways, making this a great time. Loss of hearing occurs gradually and can come as a surprise.

You may be unaware of how much you lose each day. 

The experts at any of the country’s hearing clinics can assist. With the newest hearing aid tech, we can help you find custom solutions for your hearing loss. They will fit your needs, lifestyle, and price range. Start the path to improved hearing right now!