How to Optimize Video Calls with Hearing Aids
Many workers are participating in remote or hybrid schedules, which means virtual meetings using video conferencing features are on the rise. If you wear hearing aids, the following tips can help make sure these calls go smoothly. Use Bluetooth® The majority of hearing aids can connect directly to your phone, computer or tablet via Bluetooth….
How Noise Affects Your Mood and Memory
Exposure to noise not only has the potential to damage hearing but can trigger stress and irritation as well. Understanding how noise influences your overall well-being can help create a healthier, more productive environment. The Connection Between Noise and Mood Unwanted noise can trigger stress and irritation, even when it isn’t overly loud. According to…
The Basics of Unilateral Hearing Loss
Most hearing loss occurs in both ears, which is referred to as binaural hearing loss. However, some people can experience unilateral hearing loss, which means that only one ear is affected. Causes of Hearing Loss in One Ear Much like binaural hearing loss, unilateral hearing loss can occur for many reasons. Some, but not all,…
Here’s How You Can Make the Most of Video Games with Hearing Loss
According to the National Institute on Deafness and Other Communication Disorders, “One in eight people in the United States (13 percent, or 30 million) aged 12 years or older has hearing loss in both ears, based on standard hearing examinations.” If you’re among this population, you know that hearing loss can affect many aspects of…
How to Avoid Social Isolation When You Have Hearing Loss
It’s extremely common for people with untreated hearing loss to experience feelings of loneliness. Unfortunately, when you feel this way, it can, in turn, cause you to withdraw socially from people and activities you once loved. Social isolation is a well-known risk factor for depression and even dementia, which is why it’s important to do…
How Do Our Brains’ Expectations Influence What We Hear?
Over the past few decades, researchers in the neuroscience field have demonstrated that the cerebral cortex generates predictions, and in response, neurons in charge of sensory processing encode the difference between our predictions and reality. Below we review how our ears and brains work together to help us hear, as well as what one study…
Common Misconceptions About Tinnitus
Tinnitus is the perception of ringing, buzzing or other sounds despite no sound being present. Nearly 10% of U.S. adults have experienced tinnitus lasting five minutes or more. Despite its prevalence, there are misconceptions about tinnitus and how it affects people, as well as what can be done to manage it. Here are a few…
Tips for Traveling with Tinnitus
Traveling, especially for vacation, can be fun and exciting. For those living with tinnitus, traveling even for pleasure can present unique challenges. Tinnitus is the perception of ringing, buzzing or other sounds that aren’t present and nearly 10% of the U.S. population has experienced tinnitus lasting at least five minutes in the past year. The…
Understanding the Different Types of Tinnitus
Tinnitus is the perception of ringing, buzzing or other sounds when no actual sound is present. While tinnitus is commonly associated with hearing loss or ear injury, it can occur for various reasons and presents itself in different forms. If you experience tinnitus and one of these forms of tinnitus sounds like you, consider scheduling…
Do Hearing Aids Help Tinnitus?
Tinnitus is a condition characterized by hearing sounds that aren’t caused by external sources, such as ringing, buzzing or hissing. Approximately 10% of Americans have experienced tinnitus lasting five minutes or more in the past year. Understanding how tinnitus relates to hearing loss and the role hearing aids can play in managing its symptoms can…