Hearing loss can affect people of all ages. According to the American Academy of Audiology, an estimated 28 million Americans have hearing loss. While approximately 10% of reported hearing loss requires medical treatment, others may involve the use of hearing aids or cochlear implants. Our on-site audiology clinic allows us to evaluate each case and recommend the proper course of treatment.
The Audiologists at Carlson Ear Nose & Throat associates have received the highest level in academic and clinical training and are the most qualified professional to perform hearing and balance evaluations and to recommend hearing aids.
Hearing Evaluation
Comprehensive hearing evaluations can be completed on an immediate basis. The comprehensive audiologic examination includes otoscopy, tympanometry, otoacoustic emissions, pure tone thresholds, and speech testing. During the exam, explanations of the various tests will be provided. After the exam, the results will be reviewed, and recommendations will be made.
The American Academy of Audiology recommends a routine hearing screening for all adults at age 45, regardless of perceived hearing loss or risk factors. In addition, a baseline hearing test is recommended for those starting chemotherapy or high-risk medications.
Those with a higher likelihood for developing hearing loss include:
Chemotherapy patients (especially if taking Cisplatin).
Long term aminoglycoside or loop-diuretic patients.
Frequent ear infections.
Tinnitus (ringing in the ears).
Significant history of noise exposure.
Family history of hearing loss.
Hearing Aids
Hearing aid options are thoroughly discussed with each potential user based on the results of the examination and the patient’s hearing needs and lifestyle.
Most new hearing aids use digital technology as compared to analog technology in the past. Digital hearing aids allow for more precise and accurate hearing aid fittings, improved hearing performance in noise, reduced annoyance from feedback (whistling), and the ability to program multiple listening settings for different environments.
We offer a wide variety of hearing aid manufacturers and styles, and will work with you to determine the appropriate hearing aid for your hearing loss and lifestyle.
Cost of hearing aids can vary depending on the type and level of technology. Most insurance plans do not cover hearing aids.
Consult your insurance provider for information on hearing device coverage. Deferred interest financing programs are also available for hearing aid purchases through Citicard Healthcards.
Every hearing aid purchase comes with a 30 day trial period. If you are unsatisfied with the hearing aid(s) at the end of the trial period, your money will be refunded with the exception of a set fitting fee. The fitting fee includes hearing aid selection, impression material, hearing aid fitting appointments and adjustments to the hearing aid. Our audiologists would be happy to discuss hearing aids with you at a free hearing aid consultation.
Common side effects of untreated hearing loss:
- Difficulty Communicating
- Inappropriate responses to questions or statements from family, physicians, and friends
- Decreased word recognition (hearing but not understanding)
- Social withdrawal
- Depression
- Anxiety
- Overall decreased quality of life
- Insomnia
- Families often misinterpret hearing loss as dementia, Alzheimer’s Disease, memory loss, inattention, or being ignored
Helpful links for more information on healthy hearing:
http://www.hearingloss.org/
http://www.audiology.org
http://www.ata.org
http://asha.org/public/hearing/
http://www.hei.org/education/health/health.htm
http://www.audiologist.org/pages/consumers/consumer_resources.php
http://www.healthcard.citicards.com