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Why Regular Hearing Tests Matter | Discover Hearing St. Albert

Wed, 22 Apr 2026 18:04:37 GMT

Why Regular Hearing Tests Matter

Most people only think about their hearing when something goes wrong. By that point, the damage is often already done.

Hearing loss develops slowly. It can take years before you notice a change. You adapt without realizing it. By the time family members are repeating themselves and you are turning up the television, significant loss may already have occurred.

Regular hearing tests catch problems early, when there is still more you can do about them.

What Happens During a Hearing Test in St. Albert?

A hearing assessment in St. Albert measures how well you hear sounds at different pitches and volumes. An audiologist plays a series of tones through headphones and asks you to respond each time you hear one.

The results are plotted on an audiogram, a graph showing your hearing range across frequencies. The appointment takes about 30 to 60 minutes. It is painless and non-invasive.

Your St. Albert audiologist will also review your medical history, examine your ear canals, and ask about any symptoms you have noticed. You leave with a clear picture of where your hearing stands today.

How Often Should You Get Tested?

How often you need a hearing test depends on your age and risk factors.

General guidelines suggest:

● Adults under 50 with no symptoms: once every 10 years

● Adults between 50 and 60: once every three years

● Adults over 60: every one to two years

● Anyone with risk factors: annually

Hearing loss risk factors include working in noisy environments, regular exposure to loud music, a family history of hearing loss, and smoking. If any of these apply, annual testing makes sense at any age.

Why Early Detection Makes a Difference for Hearing Loss in St. Albert

Untreated hearing loss affects more than your ability to hear. Research connects it to cognitive decline, depression, and social withdrawal. People who go without treatment often pull back from conversations and social settings without realizing why.

Catching hearing loss early means more options. Mild to moderate loss often responds well to hearing aids and other interventions. Waiting until the loss is severe limits what is possible.

Getting a baseline test in your 40s or 50s also gives your audiologist a reference point. Future tests can then show whether your hearing is changing and at what rate.

Signs You Should Not Wait

Do not wait for your next scheduled check-up if you notice any of the following:

● Difficulty following conversations, especially in noisy settings

● Frequently asking others to repeat themselves

● Turning up the TV or phone volume more than usual

● Ringing or buzzing in the ears (tinnitus)

● Trouble hearing high-pitched sounds like alarms or birds

These are common early warning signs. Acting on them quickly leads to better outcomes.

Hearing Loss and Your Overall Health

Hearing loss does not exist in isolation. Studies consistently link untreated hearing loss to an increased risk of dementia and cognitive decline. The brain works harder to process incomplete sound signals, which takes resources away from memory and thinking.

There is also a strong connection between hearing loss and mental health. Struggling to follow conversations causes frustration and embarrassment. Many people begin avoiding social situations altogether. Isolation follows.

If tinnitus is part of your picture, effective tinnitus treatment options exist that can reduce how much it interferes with daily life. A hearing assessment is the right place to start.

Protecting the Hearing You Have

A hearing test does more than identify loss. It gives your audiologist the information needed to advise you on protection.

Prolonged exposure above 85 decibels causes permanent hearing damage. Construction sites, concerts, and even earbuds at high volume all qualify. Once that damage occurs, it cannot be reversed.

If your test results show early signs of noise-induced hearing loss, your audiologist can recommend custom hearing protection to prevent further damage. One conversation now can protect decades of hearing.

Occupational Hearing Health

Alberta workers in oil and gas, agriculture, and construction face elevated noise exposure. Regular testing tracks whether workplace noise levels are affecting your hearing over time. Catching changes early means you can take action before the damage compounds.

Book Your Hearing Assessment in St. Albert

When did you last have your hearing tested? If you cannot remember, it has probably been too long.

A comprehensive hearing assessment at Discover Hearing in St. Albert takes about an hour. You leave with a clear picture of your hearing health and a plan if anything needs attention.

Do not wait until you notice a problem. Contact Discover Hearing to book your appointment with a St Albert audiologist today.

Cerumen Management: What Earwax Does and When Removal Is Necessary

Fri, 20 Mar 2026 17:04:56 GMT

Cerumen Management: What Earwax Does and When Removal Is Necessary

Cerumen, commonly known as earwax, plays an important role in protecting your ears. Many people assume earwax is something that should always be removed, yet the body produces cerumen for specific protective purposes. Understanding how earwax works and when removal becomes necessary helps prevent irritation, hearing issues, and unnecessary cleaning habits.

What Is Cerumen?

Cerumen is a naturally produced substance created by glands in the outer ear canal. It consists of oils, sweat, shed skin cells, and tiny hair fragments. Although it may appear unpleasant, cerumen performs several protective functions.

Cerumen Helps the Ear By:

• Trapping dust and debris before they reach the eardrum
• Preventing bacteria and fungal growth within the ear canal
• Lubricating the ear canal to prevent dryness and irritation
• Supporting the ear’s natural self-cleaning process

The ear canal slowly moves cerumen outward through normal jaw movement such as talking or chewing. Once it reaches the outer ear, the wax typically dries and falls away naturally.

What Is Cerumen Impaction?

Cerumen impaction occurs when earwax accumulates and becomes tightly packed within the ear canal. This buildup prevents normal movement of wax outward and begins to block the ear canal.

Several factors increase the likelihood of impaction:

• Narrow or curved ear canals
• Excess earwax production

• Frequent use of earbuds or hearing aids
• Attempting to clean ears with cotton swabs
• Aging skin within the ear canal

When cerumen becomes impacted, individuals may experience noticeable hearing changes and discomfort.

Common Symptoms of Impacted Earwax

• Muffled hearing
• Ear fullness or pressure
• Ringing in the ears
• Itching within the ear canal
• Dizziness or imbalance
• Hearing aid performance issues

If symptoms appear, an assessment by a Hearing Aid Practitioner / Audiologist at Discover Hearing in St. Albert can determine whether earwax buildup is the cause.

How Earwax Buildup Is Assessed

A professional ear examination determines whether cerumen removal is necessary. During an appointment, the practitioner visually inspects the ear canal using specialized instruments designed for safe viewing.

Assessment typically includes:

• Otoscopy examination to inspect the ear canal and eardrum
• Identification of cerumen location and density
• Evaluation of hearing symptoms
• Review of hearing aid usage or earbud habits

This careful assessment ensures wax removal occurs only when necessary and confirms that no underlying ear conditions are present.

Safe Methods for Removing Earwax

Professional cerumen removal focuses on safe techniques that protect the ear canal and eardrum.

At Discover Hearing in St. Albert, a Hearing Aid Practitioner / Audiologist may use one or more of the following approaches depending on the consistency and location of the wax.

Manual Removal

Small medical instruments gently lift or scoop wax from the ear canal while the practitioner views the area through magnification.

Microsuction

A specialized suction device removes wax using controlled airflow. This method provides precise removal and avoids introducing moisture into the ear canal.

Irrigation (When Appropriate)

In some cases, warm water irrigation softens and flushes loose wax from the canal. This approach is only used when the ear canal and eardrum are healthy.

Professional removal prevents damage that can occur when individuals attempt to clean ears with household tools.

Why Cotton Swabs Often Make the Problem Worse

Many people use cotton swabs to remove earwax. Unfortunately, this method usually pushes wax deeper into the ear canal.

When wax becomes compacted near the eardrum, removal becomes more difficult and symptoms become more noticeable.

Cotton swabs can also:

• Irritate the ear canal lining
• Scratch delicate skin inside the ear
• Increase risk of infection
• Push wax into a tighter blockage

For most people, the safest approach involves allowing the ear’s natural cleaning system to work without interference.

Schedule an Ear Check at Discover Hearing in St. Albert

Healthy ears support clear communication, balance, and daily comfort. When earwax begins interfering with hearing, prompt evaluation helps restore clarity quickly and safely.

If you suspect earwax buildup or notice changes in hearing, schedule an appointment at Discover Hearing in St. Albert. Professional cerumen management ensures safe removal and helps maintain long-term ear health.

How Hearing Loss Affects Brain Health, Memory, and Dementia Risk

Mon, 09 Mar 2026 19:15:00 GMT

How Hearing Loss Affects Brain Health, Memory, and Dementia Risk

Hearing loss affects more than your ability to detect sound. It directly affects how your brain stays active, processes information, and stores memory. Research continues to show a clear link between untreated hearing loss and increased risk of cognitive decline and dementia. Understanding this connection helps you take action early and protect both your hearing and long-term brain health.

Your Brain Needs Sound to Stay Active

Your brain depends on sound to remain engaged. Every time you hear speech, your brain identifies words, separates background noise, and stores information. This constant activity strengthens neural pathways responsible for memory, attention, and comprehension.

When hearing loss develops, the brain receives less sound input. Reduced stimulation weakens these pathways. Your brain must work harder to interpret incomplete sound signals. This extra effort increases listening fatigue and reduces efficiency in other areas, including memory and focus.

Over time, this lack of stimulation affects how well your brain processes and retains information. Early hearing care helps maintain consistent brain activity and supports long-term cognitive health.

Hearing Loss Is Linked to Increased Dementia Risk

Multiple long-term studies identify hearing loss as one of the most significant modifiable risk factors for dementia. Reduced sound stimulation contributes to changes in brain structure and function. These changes affect memory processing, thinking speed, and mental clarity.

The positive news is that early intervention helps reduce this risk. A professional identifies hearing changes early and provides solutions that restore access to sound. When your brain receives proper sound input, it maintains stronger neural connections and operates more efficiently.

Communication Supports Memory and Mental Function

Conversation is one of the most important forms of brain stimulation. Your brain processes language, tone, emotion, and meaning at the same time. This activity strengthens memory and thinking ability.

When hearing loss makes conversations difficult, many people begin avoiding social situations. This reduces mental stimulation and increases the risk of cognitive decline.

Treating hearing loss helps restore communication. Clear hearing allows your brain to stay engaged during conversations, which supports memory retention and mental clarity.

Signs Hearing Loss May Be Affecting Your Brain Health

Hearing loss often develops gradually. Many people do not recognize the signs immediately. Watch for these common indicators:

● Difficulty following conversations in noisy environments

● Frequently asking people to repeat themselves

● Feeling mentally tired after conversations

● Increasing television or phone volume

● Difficulty remembering spoken information

These signs indicate your brain is working harder to interpret sound. Early testing identifies the cause and allows treatment before further cognitive strain develops.

Hearing Treatment Helps Protect Your Brain

Professional hearing care restores access to sound and reduces strain on your brain. Modern hearing devices improve clarity and allow your brain to process sound naturally.

Benefits of treating hearing loss include:

● Improved memory retention

● Better concentration

● Reduced mental fatigue

● Stronger communication ability

● Improved daily function and independence

When hearing improves, your brain no longer needs to compensate for missing sound. This helps preserve cognitive function and supports long-term brain health.

Protect Your Hearing and Support Your Brain Health

Hearing loss affects your brain, memory, and daily function. Early testing helps preserve cognitive health and communication ability. A Hearing Aid Practitioner / Audiologist can identify hearing changes and recommend treatment that supports long-term brain function.

If you have noticed changes in your hearing, schedule a professional assessment at Discover Hearing in St. Albert. Early care helps protect both your hearing and your cognitive health.

Start The Year Strong: Tune-Ups, Tinnitus Relief, and Custom Protection

Mon, 02 Feb 2026 21:07:20 GMT

Alberta winters are tough on electronics. When you move between -20°C outside and +20°C inside, condensation forms in your hearing aids. Moisture corrodes delicate components and creates static.

January is when most people focus on gym memberships and budgets. But your hearing health deserves attention too. Three priorities matter this month: servicing your devices, addressing tinnitus, and protecting your ears from damage.

Time for a Hearing Aid Service Appointment

Your devices collect earwax, dust, and debris that blocks sound quality. Microphone ports get clogged. Receivers lose clarity. Batteries drain faster than normal. Regular hearing aid service in St. Albert prevents these issues from becoming expensive repairs.

A typical service appointment includes deep cleaning, firmware updates, battery testing, and fit adjustments. Your audiologist checks every component and makes sure your devices work like new. Most appointments take 30-45 minutes. You'll notice the difference immediately when sounds become clearer and your devices feel more comfortable.

If your hearing aids whistle, sound muffled, or drain batteries quickly, don't wait. These are signs something needs fixing.

Tinnitus Treatment That Actually Helps

About 15% of Canadians experience tinnitus. That constant ringing, buzzing, or hissing sound that nobody else hears. It disrupts sleep. Makes concentration difficult. Creates stress that affects your relationships and work performance.

Many people assume nothing helps, so they suffer in silence. But effective tinnitus treatment exists in St. Albert .

How Sound Therapy Provides Relief

Your brain amplifies tinnitus when you're in quiet environments. Sound therapy introduces external noise that gives your brain something else to focus on. Modern hearing aids include tinnitus masking programmes. These generate white noise, nature sounds, or customized tones matched to your specific tinnitus frequency.

You control the settings through a smartphone app. Some people use it all day. Others only need it at bedtime for better sleep.

What a Tinnitus Assessment Involves

Treatment starts with understanding your specific situation. A Hearing Aid Practitioner/Audiologist measures your tinnitus pitch and volume. They ask about when it bothers you most and how it affects daily activities.

Based on this audiometric evaluation , they recommend a treatment plan. This might include sound therapy alone, hearing aids with built-in tinnitus programmes, or a combination of devices and counselling techniques. Most people notice improvement within a few weeks. The ringing doesn't disappear overnight, but it becomes less intrusive and easier to manage.

If tinnitus affects your quality of life, schedule a consultation. Living with constant ringing isn't your only option.

Custom Earplugs for Work and Play

Generic foam earplugs have serious limitations. They block too much sound, making communication impossible. They fall out during physical activity. They cause discomfort with extended wear.

Custom earplugs solve these problems by fitting your ear canals exactly.

Protection for Loud Workplaces

Construction sites, oil fields, and manufacturing facilities expose workers to damaging noise levels. Prolonged exposure above 85 decibels causes permanent hearing loss.

Custom work earplugs protect your hearing while letting you understand speech. You hear safety warnings and coworker instructions without removing your protection.

They stay secure during physical work and last several years with proper care. One pair replaces hundreds of disposable foam plugs.

Musicians Need Different Protection

Standard earplugs muffle sound and distort music. Musicians' custom earplugs use specialized filters that reduce volume evenly across all frequencies. You hear every instrument and vocal clearly, just at safer levels. This matters whether you perform in bands, teach music lessons, work as a DJ, or attend concerts regularly.

Your hearing determines your ability to work in music. Protect it properly.

Winter Sports Require Specialized Plugs

Snowmobiling, skiing, and ice fishing expose your ears to harmful wind noise and extreme cold. Custom earplugs designed for winter activities fit comfortably under helmets and toques. They block damaging wind noise while maintaining your awareness of surroundings.

The materials stay flexible in freezing temperatures, and the low-profile design stays secure during high-speed activities. Getting custom earplugs in St. Albert means professional fitting and high-quality materials. One set lasts for years.

Book Your Hearing Assessment

When did you last test your hearing? Hearing loss develops gradually. You adapt without noticing changes. Family members often notice before you do when they repeat themselves frequently or you turn up the television.

A comprehensive hearing assessment at Discover Hearing in St. Albert reveals your current hearing status and identifies any changes since your last test. The process includes medical history review, physical examination, and detailed hearing tests. You'll learn exactly where you stand and what options exist if changes have occurred.

The assessment takes about an hour. You leave with clear answers and a plan if treatment is needed.

Take Action in Today

New year's momentum fades fast. Address your hearing health now while you're thinking about it. Contact Discover Hearing to schedule your appointment. Whether you need hearing aid service, tinnitus treatment, custom earplugs, or a hearing assessment, we'll take care of you.

Your hearing matters. Start 2026 with the clarity and comfort you deserve.

Holiday Parties Without the Guessing: Hearing Strategies That Work

Fri, 19 Dec 2025 22:54:23 GMT

Holiday Parties Without the Guessing: Hearing Strategies That Work

December gatherings bring steady movement, layered conversations, and rising background noise, which makes hearing support an important part of feeling fully included in the festivities. When voices overlap and rooms shift from quiet moments to lively activity, you rely on clear listening to stay connected with the people around you.

With thoughtful preparation, you strengthen your ability to follow conversations across family dinners, workplace functions, and in-home celebrations throughout St. Albert, creating a more comfortable and engaging experience in every setting. Here are some steps you can take to build clearer listening and stronger connection throughout the season.

Set Up Your Space Before Guests Arrive

Good seating builds better hearing. Pick a spot with a wall behind you so sound arrives from fewer directions. Choose a chair with a clear view of faces so you follow expressions and lip movement.

Stay away from speakers, kitchens, and hallways. These zones push steady background noise into the room. Soft furniture, curtains, and rugs help reduce echo and sharp sound.

Ask close family or friends to sit on your stronger side. Your devices work harder for you when key voices stay in a consistent position.

Use Speech Programs In Your Devices

If you wear Bluetooth hearing aids, switch to your speech or restaurant program before guests arrive. These programs reduce background noise and place more focus on voices in front of you. Some devices change direction for you as the speaker moves. Run a short test at home. Play low background audio and talk with a partner. Try different programs and pick the one that keeps speech clearest once the room gets more active.

Add Remote Mics And Assistive Accessories

Remote microphones support hearing in groups. Place the mic near the person you need to follow. This might be the host at the end of the table or a speaker during games and toasts. The voice streams straight to your devices and cuts through distance and noise.

Many hearing aid function as assistive listening devices in loud settings. Table mics, clip-on mics, and small transmitters send a focused signal to your ears. Some options pair with phones or tablets so you blend audio and captions during events.

These tools keep you included in fast group talk instead of listening from the edges.

Turn On Live Captions For Group Moments

Live captions help when conversations overlap. Turn captions on for movies, video calls, and holiday specials. For games or shared activities, place a tablet or laptop where you can see both the screen and the text.

Captions do not replace your devices. They add an extra layer of clarity when the room noise rises or when multiple people speak at once.

Prepare For Restaurants And Off Site Events

Restaurants in December feel bright and busy. Hard floors and tables push sound in every direction. Choose a corner booth when possible. Sit with your back toward the main room so your devices face the table instead of the crowd.

Ask for lower music if the volume climbs. Most staff respond well to a simple request. Choose brighter seating over dim corners when you can. Strong light helps you read expressions and follow conversation.

If your hearing aids have a dedicated noisy-restaurant program, select it before you walk in. This avoids rushed changes once you sit down.

Hearing Confidence with Discover Hearing

Connect with Discover Hearing in St. Albert for support tailored to your holiday plans. Schedule a quick clean and check for your hearing aids, adjust your device settings, or review accessories that strengthen your listening comfort. Reach out through the clinic to get the guidance you need before your next gathering.

Get Ready To Hear Well This Holiday In St. Albert

Wed, 26 Nov 2025 20:57:26 GMT

Get Ready To Hear Well This Holiday In St. Albert

November in St. Albert moves quickly as work, school, and holiday plans start to overlap. Before invitations fill the calendar, this month offers a short, practical window to get your hearing tested in time for crowded rooms, busy restaurants, and long family visits.

Background music, dishes, and several voices at once push listening effort higher, especially when hearing already feels weaker than it once did. A simple checklist in November keeps you ahead of the noise, so gatherings feel more relaxed and conversation stays clear.

Why November Is The Right Time For Hearing Prep In St. Albert

Waiting until mid-December for a hearing test in St. Albert often leads to tight schedules, fewer appointment choices, and rushed decisions about treatment. By planning hearing care in November, you gain:

● More choice for appointment days and times

● Time to adjust to new hearing aids before holiday events

● An opportunity to use remaining insurance or health benefits before year-end

● Space to solve small problems before they interrupt gatherings

Cold wind, toques, and heavy coats also affect hearing aids in St. Albert, since hats shift devices and moisture from changing temperatures interferes with microphones and batteries. Early checks at a local St. Albert hearing clinic reduce surprises once full winter weather arrives.

Your November Pre-Holiday Hearing Checklist

Use this checklist as a guide for the month. Work through each step and you will walk into holiday gatherings with more confidence and less listening fatigue.

1. Book Or Update Your Hearing Test In St. Albert

If hearing feels different this year, or if several years have passed since the last assessment, start with a full hearing test.

A comprehensive hearing assessment:

● Measures hearing across pitches and volumes

● Compares results with earlier tests

● Guides settings for current or future hearing aids

● Highlights where added protection or support makes sense

Choose a St. Albert hearing clinic near home so follow-up visits fit easily into winter routines.

2. Clean And Check Your Hearing Aids

Daily wear leaves sweat, skin oils, hair products, and wax on microphones and sound outlets, which slowly reduces clarity. During a November service visit, ask the hearing care professional to:

● Inspect microphones and receivers

● Clean tubing and earmolds or domes

● Look for moisture damage

● Confirm programming still matches your hearing test results

At home, wipe devices with a soft dry cloth, store them in a case overnight, and keep them away from heat sources.

3. Refresh Domes, Filters, And Power Sources

Small parts often create big changes in sound quality, especially when wax guards clog or domes harden over time. In November, plan to:

● Replace wax filters or guards

● Replace domes or earmolds when they feel loose, stiff, or discoloured

● Stock fresh batteries for travel and holiday events, or double-check charging habits for rechargeable models

Keep a small kit in a purse, pocket, or glove box with spare batteries or a portable charger, a cleaning brush, and a few wipes so minor issues never interrupt a visit or dinner.

4. Review Warranties, Service Plans, And Benefits

Before the busiest weeks of the year, review support for your devices and your hearing care budget. Work through three quick checks:

● Warranty expiry dates for hearing aids and accessories

● Service packages or follow-up visits through your St. Albert hearing clinic

● Remaining insurance or health benefits for hearing tests, hearing aids or assistive listening devices

Many plans reset on January 1, so November often offers a final chance to schedule covered services, order accessories, or upgrade support before new limits begin.

Practical Tips For Hearing In Restaurants And Busy Homes

Even with well-programmed hearing aids, crowded rooms create challenges, so small choices around seating, lighting, and background sound make a strong difference.

In Restaurants

When you book or arrive at a restaurant, request a corner or wall-side table away from the kitchen, bar, or speakers, since those areas hold higher background noise. Seat yourself where you face the people you speak with most, which keeps facial expressions and lip movement within view.

If lighting feels low, pick a spot nearer to a window or fixture so you see faces clearly. Let staff know you wear hearing aids and prefer a quieter spot or slower pace while ordering; most servers respond with patience and small adjustments.

At Home

During family dinners and parties, lower background music during conversation, then raise the volume between courses or games. Turn off televisions during group updates, speeches, or toasts so voices do not compete with broadcast sound.

Set up one or two quieter corners away from the main crowd for deeper conversation with a few people. Let family and friends know you follow best when one person speaks at a time, especially during important updates or stories.

If your hearing aids include special programs such as restaurant, speech in noise, or party, review how to switch modes before leaving home and practice once or twice, so the process feels familiar when you sit down.

Ready To Hear Well This Holiday Season?

November offers a focused window to prepare your hearing for dinners, concerts, work events, and long visits with family and friends in St. Albert. Book a hearing test, tune up hearing aids and confirm coverage for hearing care before the year ends.

For help with hearing aids in St. Albert or assistive listening devices, contact Discover Hearing , and schedule a pre-holiday appointment today.

Preparing for the Canada Hearing Aid Tax Credit Change in 2026

Fri, 17 Oct 2025 23:08:58 GMT

Preparing for the Canada Hearing Aid Tax Credit Change in 2026

Major updates to the Canada Medical Expense Tax Credit (METC) are expected in 2026, with hearing aids and related expenses likely to receive more generous treatment. For Canadians who rely on or are considering hearing aids, this change could significantly affect how and when to make purchases. Understanding the current rules and what may change will help you plan ahead.

Current Rules for Hearing Aid Expenses

Right now, hearing aids are considered eligible medical expenses under the federal METC. The credit is non-refundable, meaning it only reduces the tax you owe rather than generating a refund. You can claim the cost of hearing aids, fittings, batteries, and repairs if they are prescribed by an authorized audiologist or other medical practitioner.

The amount you can claim is limited. Only expenses that exceed the lesser of three percent of your net income or a fixed annual threshold qualify for the credit. For the 2024 tax year, that fixed amount is $2,759. This means that smaller hearing aid purchases may not trigger any benefit if they fall below the threshold.

Medical receipts and professional certification are essential. The CRA requires detailed proof of purchase, and in most provinces only licensed audiologists are recognized as authorized practitioners for hearing care. If you and your spouse share medical expenses, it often makes sense for the lower-income spouse to claim them, since the threshold is based on income.

Some Canadians with profound hearing loss may also qualify for the Disability Tax Credit. If approved, this credit can provide additional financial support beyond the standard METC claim.

Anticipated Changes in 2026

The government has indicated that the current rules for medical expenses will be reformed in 2026. Although the exact details have not been finalized, early signals suggest that hearing aids will receive expanded coverage. The reforms may introduce a set percentage reimbursement, such as 25 percent of eligible expenses up to a maximum cap, making the benefit easier to calculate.

At the same time, Canadians should be prepared for stricter documentation requirements. Purchases may need to come from recognized suppliers, and accessories or warranties might only be eligible if they are clearly listed on receipts. Importantly, these changes are not expected to apply retroactively. Expenses incurred before the effective date will likely remain under the current, less generous system.

How to Prepare Before 2026

If you are planning to replace or purchase new hearing aids, the timing of your investment will matter. In some cases, waiting until 2026 could provide a larger financial benefit. For others with urgent needs, delaying may not be realistic.

To make the most of the transition, consider the following steps:

● Review your current hearing needs and decide whether a replacement can wait until 2026.

● Speak with your audiologist about receipts, warranties, and whether payment timing can be adjusted to align with the new rules.

● Keep all receipts and certifications in an organized file, both in paper and digital form.

● Check for provincial or territorial programs that may already help cover hearing aids, as these could combine with federal credits.

● Consult a tax professional before making major purchases, especially if your costs are significant.

Practical Scenarios

These examples show how the new rules might affect Canadians differently:

● A person in Alberta planning a $6,000 hearing aid replacement in 2026 could receive a much higher credit than if they made the same purchase in 2025.

● Someone who needs batteries or repairs might hold off until after the new rules apply, allowing even smaller expenses to qualify.

Considerations

The current tax credit system provides limited relief for hearing aid expenses. While hearing aids are eligible, the threshold requirements mean that not all Canadians see a benefit. The reforms planned for 2026 are expected to make these expenses more affordable, but only for purchases made once the new rules are in effect.

Planning ahead, keeping proper documentation, and consulting professionals will help you maximize your financial benefit. For many Canadians, the smartest move may be to time hearing aid purchases or upgrades for 2026 rather than rushing them in 2025.

Are you thinking about new hearing aids or upgrades?
Contact Discover Hearing to make an appointment with our registered audiologist and hearing aid specialists. We can assess your hearing aid requirements and ensure that your hearing needs are met without delay.

Back-to-School Noise Exposure: How Children’s Hearing Can Be Impacted

Tue, 07 Oct 2025 21:54:54 GMT

Back-to-School Noise Exposure: How Children’s Hearing Can Be Impacted

Fall brings children back to classrooms filled with activity. Between crowded cafeterias, gymnasiums, band practice, and busy hallways, noise exposure becomes part of their daily routine. While most parents think about homework and schedules, few consider how constant sound affects hearing health.

Children spend nearly six hours each day in school environments. Average classroom sound levels often exceed recommended limits, and long-term exposure contributes to hearing fatigue or even permanent loss . Understanding these risks helps you protect your child’s ability to learn and communicate.

Common Sources of School Noise

Noise at school comes from more than one place. It’s not only the obvious moments, like a basketball game or band practice. Constant background noise is part of the school day from the first bell to the bus ride home. Classrooms are rarely silent. Cafeterias are packed and echo-filled. Sports and music add bursts of high decibel exposure. Even buses and hallways keep sound levels elevated for long periods.

Understanding where this noise comes from is the first step to managing it. Each environment presents its own risks, and together they add up to significant daily exposure.

● Classrooms : Background chatter, projectors, HVAC systems, and group activities.

● Cafeterias : Large rooms with hard surfaces amplify voices and movement.

● Music rooms : Instruments and amplified sound can reach harmful decibel levels.

● Gyms and playgrounds : Whistles, shouting, and echoing walls raise sound intensity.

● School buses : Engines and crowded seating expose kids to sustained loudness.

These environments expose children to decibel levels between 70–100 dB. For comparison, experts recommend keeping sustained exposure below 70 dB to avoid long-term risk.

Early Warning Signs of Hearing Loss in Children

Hearing issues in children are often subtle at first. They don’t always recognize what they’re missing, and adults may mistake the signs for lack of focus or behaviour problems. A child who struggles to hear directions in a noisy classroom may appear distracted or inattentive. At home, they may turn up the television or need reminders to lower device volume.

Parents and teachers play a key role in noticing these patterns early. Consistent behaviours or complaints can signal more than an occasional distraction. Paying attention to these changes gives children the best chance for early intervention and treatment.

● Asking teachers or parents to repeat often

● Turning up volume on devices or TV

● Struggling to follow instructions in noisy settings

● Complaints of ringing in the ears (tinnitus)

● Reduced participation in group discussions

A pediatric audiologist can perform complete hearing assessments to confirm whether these signs indicate measurable hearing loss.

How Hearing Affects Learning

Hearing connects directly to academic success. Children with even mild hearing loss can miss up to 30% of classroom speech. This creates challenges in literacy, social skills, and confidence. Misdiagnosis as behavioural or attention issues is common when the root cause is auditory fatigue.

What Parents and Teachers Can Do

You can reduce risk by combining small adjustments with professional support:

● Request classroom acoustic improvements such as carpets, sound-absorbing panels, or curtains.

● Encourage teachers to use microphones or sound-field amplification systems.

● Remind children to wear hearing protection during band practice, sports events, or loud activities.

● Schedule regular hearing assessments with a pediatric audiologist.

● Model safe listening habits at home by limiting volume on headphones.

Each step creates a healthier listening environment and safeguards children’s long-term learning potential.

Safeguarding Hearing During the School Year

Protect your child’s hearing without limiting their school experiences. Create safer learning spaces and stay ahead of potential risks with regular checkups. Parents and educators share the responsibility; take the next step today.

Book a complete hearing assessment with Discover Hearing

Digital Earwax Tools Can Damage Hearing: What You Need to Know

Wed, 03 Sep 2025 21:43:07 GMT

Digital Earwax Tools Can Damage Hearing: What You Need to Know

Many Canadians are buying digital earwax removers. These include at-home vacuums, scoops with cameras, and electronic tips. The promise is quick relief from earwax buildup. The reality is risk. Incorrect use can push wax deeper, damage the ear canal and tympanic membrane (eardrum), or cause lasting hearing loss.

This guide explains the dangers of at-home tools, outlines safe alternatives, and shows when to consult a professional.

Why Earwax Matters

Earwax often gets treated as a problem, but it serves important functions for your ears. It protects against infection, reduces irritation, and helps the ear clean itself. Without earwax, your ears would be exposed to constant irritation from dirt, bacteria, and moisture.

Understanding its role is the first step in knowing when removal is necessary and when leaving it alone is safer.

● Protects the ear canal from bacteria and debris

● Traps dust and dirt before it reaches the eardrum

● Provides natural lubrication to prevent dryness

Removing too much earwax exposes the ear to infection. Problems only start when buildup blocks the canal.

The Rise of Digital Earwax Removers

New devices have entered the market with claims of safe, at-home earwax removal. These products are popular because they appear modern and precise, offering tools with lights, cameras, and suction tips. Many people see them as an alternative to professional cleaning.

The problem is that appearances are misleading. Even with a camera, it is difficult to judge depth and angle inside your own ear. A simple slip can cause permanent harm.

Popular versions include:

● Ear cameras with attached scoops

● Battery-powered vacuums

● Rotating plastic or silicone tips

These devices give the impression of safety, however a built-in light or camera does not prevent mistakes. The ear canal is narrow and delicate. One slip can scratch the ear canal or puncture the eardrum.

Risks of At-Home Tools and Cotton Swabs

Most people reach for a cotton swab or a new digital tool when their ears feel plugged. While it may seem logical to clear the blockage directly, these methods often create the opposite result. Instead of clearing wax, they push it further down.

This compaction makes symptoms worse and creates new risks. The thin skin lining the ear canal and eardrum is easily damaged and, once injured, infection spreads quickly.

Common complications include:

● Ear canal injury

● Eardrum perforation

● Infection from trapped bacteria

● Hearing loss , temporary or permanent

Research shows up to 90 percent of people using cotton swabs compact wax instead of removing it. Digital devices add another layer of risk with suction and moving tips.

Symptoms of Earwax Buildup

Most people produce small amounts of earwax without issue. Trouble begins when buildup blocks the ear canal and interferes with sound transmission. At first, it feels like fullness or pressure. Over time, hearing becomes muffled, and other symptoms appear.

Knowing the signs helps you decide when to stop home attempts and see a professional.

Watch for:

● Muffled or reduced hearing

● A plugged sensation in the ear

● Ringing or buzzing (tinnitus)

● Pain or itching

● Dizziness or imbalance

If you experience these signs, avoid more attempts at home. Additional removal efforts usually make the blockage worse.

Safe Earwax Removal Methods

When symptoms develop, the focus should be on safe solutions. Earwax removal should protect the ear canal and restore hearing without causing trauma. There are two main approaches: gentle at-home options and professional removal by a trained Audiologist / Registered Hearing Aid Practitioner.

At-Home Options

● Over-the-counter ear drops soften cerumen and allow it to move out naturally

● Gentle irrigation products may help, but only when used as directed

Professional Earwax Removal

An Audiologist or Registered Hearing Aid Practitioner has the right tools and training. Methods include:

● Irrigation under controlled pressure

● Suction with specialized equipment

● Manual removal using a curette under direct vision

These approaches protect the eardrum and canal while fully clearing blockage.

When to See an Audiologist / Registered Hearing Aid Practitioner

Not every case of earwax buildup needs professional care, but there are clear situations where expert help is the safest choice. If you wear hearing aids, have ear surgery history, or experience sudden hearing loss, an Audiologist or Registered Hearing Aid Practitioner visit should be a priority.

Professional removal not only clears wax but also ensures no other issues are hiding behind the blockage. An Audiologist / Registered Hearing Aid Practitioner can detect infections, perforations, or other ear conditions that at-home tools would miss.

Professional removal is the safest choice if you:

● Wear hearing aids

● Have a history of ear surgery

● Experience frequent ear infections

● Notice sudden hearing changes

Preventing Hearing Damage

Safe earwax care is part of protecting your hearing long-term. Avoiding risky methods prevents both immediate injury and gradual damage. Prevention also extends to your daily habits, such as noise exposure and hearing checkups.

Practical steps include:

● Do not insert cotton swabs or digital scoops into your ears

● Protect your ears from loud noise exposure

● Schedule routine checkups with an Audiologist or Registered Hearing Aid Practitioner

● Seek professional help if you notice changes in your hearing

Prevention is easier than repair. Protecting your hearing now reduces the risk of lasting damage later.

Experiencing Hearing Loss? – Book a Professional Consultation

If you’ve noticed changes in your hearing or other concerning symptoms, don’t put off seeking help. A professional hearing evaluation performed by a registered Audiologist or Hearing Aid Practitioner can help to keep your hearing protected.

If you’ve been experiencing issues with your hearing, book an appointment with Discover Hearing to determine the cause and extent of your hearing loss. Our hearing professionals can provide guidance and recommend solutions that will fit your individual needs and lifestyle.

Can Ear Infections Cause Hearing Loss? What You Need to Know

info@frontlineconsulting.ca (Peter Quinn) — Fri, 25 Jul 2025 14:56:32 GMT

Can Ear Infections Cause Hearing Loss? What You Need to Know

Ear infections are one of the most common reasons people, especially children, visit their doctor. While often temporary and treatable, recurring or severe ear infections can lead to more serious complications, including hearing loss.

Understanding how ear infections work and their impact on your hearing is an important step toward protecting your long-term ear health . Here’s what you need to know.

What Is an Ear Infection?

An ear infection, also known as otitis media , occurs when fluid builds up in the middle ear and becomes infected by bacteria or viruses. This causes inflammation, pressure, and pain.

There are several types:

● Acute Otitis Media (AOM): A sudden infection with swelling and pus buildup behind the eardrum

● Otitis Media with Effusion (OME): Fluid remains in the ear after an infection, even without symptoms

● Chronic Otitis Media: Persistent infection that can damage the eardrum and ear bones over time

Children are particularly vulnerable because their Eustachian tubes (which drain fluid from the middle ear) are smaller and less angled than adults'.

Can Ear Infections Cause Hearing Loss?

Yes, ear infections can cause temporary or, in some cases, permanent hearing loss if left untreated or if they occur repeatedly.

Temporary Hearing Loss

Most people with an ear infection experience some degree of temporary hearing loss. This happens because fluid buildup blocks the sound from passing through the ear canal and vibrating the eardrum normally.

This type of hearing loss usually resolves when the infection clears and the fluid drains.

Permanent Hearing Loss

Chronic infections or untreated cases can lead to structural damage in the ear:

● Eardrum perforation: Repeated pressure can cause the eardrum to rupture

● Ossicle damage: The tiny bones that help transmit sound can erode or become dislocated

● Scarring: Scar tissue in the middle ear can reduce mobility and sound conduction

In these cases, the hearing loss may become permanent and require medical or surgical intervention.

Common Signs of Hearing Loss After an Ear Infection

If hearing loss persists beyond the infection, you may notice:

● Muffling or dullness in one or both ears

● Trouble following conversations, especially in noisy places

● Turning up the volume on devices more than usual

● Asking people to repeat themselves

● In children: delayed speech development or inattentiveness

If any of these symptoms continue for more than a week after an infection clears, it’s time to schedule a hearing assessment.

When Should You See a Hearing Professional?

It’s normal for hearing to feel “off” during an active ear infection, but it shouldn’t linger long after treatment. You should consult a hearing professional if:

● Hearing loss persists more than a week after symptoms subside

● You or your child have recurring ear infections

● You experience ringing (tinnitus) or balance issues

● You notice fluid draining from the ear

● You have a history of chronic otitis media

How to Prevent Ear Infection-Related Hearing Loss

While not all ear infections are preventable, you can reduce the risk of complications by:

● Treating infections early : Don’t delay seeing a doctor if symptoms arise

● Finishing prescribed medications : Even if symptoms improve, complete the full course

● Keeping ears dry : Avoid getting water into the ear if you’re prone to infections

● Managing allergies and sinus issues : These can increase fluid buildup

● Regular check-ups for children : Especially if they’ve had multiple infections

Good ear hygiene and early intervention go a long way toward preserving hearing health.

Don’t Ignore Lingering Symptoms

If you've had an ear infection and your hearing hasn’t returned to normal, don't assume it's nothing. Prolonged hearing issues can affect communication, mental health, and quality of life, especially in young children and older adults.

Getting a hearing test is fast, non-invasive, and informative . Whether your hearing loss is mild, moderate, or more complex, the team at Discover Hearing will work with you to find the right solution.

Book Your Hearing Test in St. Albert

Ear infections are common but hearing loss doesn’t have to be. At Discover Hearing, we provide advanced hearing assessments, custom treatment plans, and ongoing support to keep you hearing your best.

Contact us today to schedule your hearing test in St. Albert.

8 Celebrities Living with Hearing Loss | Discover Hearing

info@frontlineconsulting.ca (Peter Quinn) — Tue, 17 Jun 2025 15:36:41 GMT

8 Celebrities Living with Hearing Loss: Breaking the Stigma and Raising Awareness

Hearing loss can affect people of all ages and backgrounds. It doesn’t matter if you’re a rising star, a world-class athlete, or an award-winning performer; hearing challenges don’t discriminate. And in recent years, more and more public figures have begun to speak openly about their experiences with hearing loss.

These conversations are important. They help break down stigma and normalize the use of hearing aids and other hearing solutions. At Discover Hearing , we believe that stories like these encourage others to take hearing health seriously and show that with the right support, including a trusted registered audiologist, you can continue living life to the fullest.

Here are 8 celebrities who have publicly shared their experiences with hearing loss and continue to thrive in their careers.

1. Millie Bobby Brown

Best known for her breakout role in Stranger Things, Millie Bobby Brown was born with partial hearing loss in one ear. Eventually, she lost all hearing on that side. Despite this, she has pursued a career that involves both acting and singing. Her story proves that hearing loss doesn’t need to limit creative ambition or success.

2. Stephen Colbert

Late-night host and comedian Stephen Colbert has been deaf in his right ear since he was a child, due to a medical issue. While it hasn’t affected his comedic timing, it’s a reminder that not all hearing loss is visible, and many people adapt quietly. Colbert’s long career in media is a testament to how hearing loss can be managed with confidence.

3. Whoopi Goldberg

Whoopi Goldberg has been open about using hearing aids. She attributes her hearing loss to years of listening to loud music through headphones. Now, she encourages others to protect their hearing and regularly speaks about the benefits of modern hearing aids, especially for those who want to stay connected and engaged.

4. Rob Lowe

Rob Lowe has lived with single-sided deafness since infancy. Despite this, he’s enjoyed a long and successful acting career spanning several decades. His openness about hearing loss encourages others to be proactive by speaking with a professional to receive an audio evaluation and treatment, if something doesn’t feel right.

5. Jodie Foster

Jodie Foster has spoken publicly about wearing hearing aids and managing hearing loss. Her story reminds us that hearing devices are tools, not weaknesses, and that staying connected through better hearing can be a smart, empowering choice.

6. Derrick Coleman

NFL player Derrick Coleman made history as the league’s first legally deaf offensive player. He uses hearing aids and lip-reading to communicate with teammates. His success on the field has made him a role model for athletes and youth with hearing challenges, showing that determination and the right support can make all the difference.

7. Pete Townshend

Legendary guitarist Pete Townshend of The Who has lived with hearing loss and tinnitus for decades, largely due to prolonged exposure to loud music. He now advocates for hearing conservation and encourages musicians and fans alike to wear ear protection . He also uses custom hearing aids to manage his condition.

8. Halle Berry

Academy Award-winning actress Halle Berry has partial hearing loss in one ear. Though she doesn’t often speak about it in detail, she has addressed the importance of resilience and health advocacy, especially when facing challenges that others may not immediately see.

Why These Stories Matter

These celebrities remind us that hearing loss is nothing to be ashamed of, and that support is available. Many of them use hearing aids, consult audiologists, and continue working in industries that rely heavily on communication. Their openness helps reduce stigma and sends a powerful message: hearing health is part of overall wellness, and managing hearing loss starts with awareness and action.

If you’ve been putting off a hearing test or are unsure whether hearing aids are right for you, their stories offer a strong reminder that getting help is a smart, empowering choice, not a sign of weakness.

Take the First Step Toward Better Hearing

You don’t need to be a celebrity to prioritize your hearing. If you’ve noticed changes in how you hear conversations, struggle with background noise, or simply haven’t had a recent hearing evaluation, now is the time to take action.

Book an appointment with a registered audiologist at Discover Hearing and take the first step toward better hearing and a better quality of life.

May is Better Speech and Hearing Month

info@frontlineconsulting.ca (Peter Quinn) — Wed, 07 May 2025 16:05:37 GMT

May is Better Speech and Hearing Month, which highlights the importance of raising awareness about hearing health and communication disorders in order to improve the rates of early detection.

Being able to recognize the signs of hearing loss early allows you to seek treatment and, depending on the cause of the hearing loss, take steps to prevent the hearing loss from growing worse.

Treating your hearing loss can also help improve your ability to communicate, enjoy social interactions and reduce the negative impacts to your mental health and cognitive abilities.

What are Common Signs of Hearing Loss?

Hearing loss can develop slowly over time, so it’s important to watch out for signs that there is a problem. If you are experiencing any of the following symptoms, you should book a hearing evaluation with a registered audiologist:

- Ringing or buzzing sounds with no external source

- Trouble following conversations

- Requiring the TV volume be set significantly higher than others require

- Difficulty hearing certain types of sounds (e.g. high-pitched sounds)

- Dizziness or balance issues

- Difficulty with focusing on specific sounds or ignoring background noise

How Can You Protect Your Hearing Health?

Just like with any other aspect of your health, it is important to take steps to take care of your hearing and protect yourself.

Here are 5 Tips for Safeguarding Your Hearing Health

1. Don’t Ignore Signs of an Ear Infection

If you are experiencing persistent pain in your ear or have noticed a discharge, you should get yourself checked out by your doctor for an ear infection or injury in your inner ear. Ear infections can lead to complications or hearing loss if left untreated, so don’t brush off these signs and get yourself assessed.

2. Use Ear Plugs or Hearing Protection Products

If you work in or live near noisy environments, ensure that you are using hearing protection products, such as earmuffs or ear plugs, when you are in areas where you could be exposed to loud noises for extended periods of time.

3. Schedule Regular Hearing Evaluations

You should be getting your hearing checked regularly, just like how you should be booking regular eye exams or dental appointments. If you are over the age of 50, or work in an environment where you are exposed to noise hazards, you should receive a hearing evaluation once a year.

4. If You Have a Hearing Aid, Wear it Regularly

Hearing aids can help you to hear better, improve your social interactions and reduce your risk of cognitive decline brought on by hearing loss and isolation. It can also reduce the risks of your hearing loss worsening due to auditory deprivation - but only if you wear your hearing aids regularly.

5. Seek Medical Advice from an Audiologist for Ear Concerns

If you are experiencing any issues with your ears or hearing beyond what we have mentioned, it’s important that you seek medical advice from a registered professional. This includes symptoms such as itchiness in your ears, injuries to the ears or issues with wax buildup.

Are you ready to start hearing better?

If you have been experiencing issues with your hearing, now is the time to book a hearing assessment with our registered audiologist. Our team can access your needs and develop a customized hearing treatment plan that fits your lifestyle needs.

Whether you need help with your current hearing aids, think you might need to get a hearing aid, or would just like to book your annual hearing test, we’re here to help. Contact us today at (780) 418-4327 to book an appointment.

Auditory Deprivation and How Hearing Loss Impacts the Brain

info@frontlineconsulting.ca (Peter Quinn) — Mon, 28 Apr 2025 14:52:59 GMT

Experts often say that when it comes to hearing “You need to use it, or you’ll lose it”.

Everyday we’re learning more about how hearing loss affects the brain. One of the things we’re finding it that understimulation can lead to auditory deprivation.

What is Auditory Deprivation?

Auditory deprivation refers to situations where a person is deprived of sound to the point that it has a negative impact on their brain. Over time, the lack of stimulation can lead to sensory impairment, as their brain will start to reassign the areas responsible for processing sound to other tasks. These parts of the brain may even start to shrink from lack of use.

This means that if auditory deprivation goes on for too long, even when the person is able to hear sounds again, their ability to process those sounds may be permanently affected.

Can Hearing Loss Lead to Auditory Deprivation?

Untreated hearing loss can indeed lead to auditory deprivation. Your brain needs to be used to stay sharp. If you’re suffering from hearing loss, even if you don’t think it’s severe, you’re receiving less and less auditory input for your brain to process. Eventually this will lead those processing pathways to atrophy. This in turn will make it harder for you to understand the sounds that you are able to hear. Conversations will become harder to parse, and some people might even start to experience auditory hallucinations.

Luckily, wearing hearing aids can help avoid this, but it’s important to be proactive. Start using hearing aids early to manage your hearing loss and wear them regularly. If you have hearing loss in both your ears, it is also important to use two hearing aids so one ear doesn’t end up growing weaker than the other.

Can the Effects of Auditory Deprivation Be Reversed?

If you’re already suffering from the impacts of auditory deprivation there is hope that some of the effects on your brain can be reserved. Early research indicates that using hearing aids can improve auditory signal processing and possibly stop the shrinkage of sound processing pathways. Brain resources that were reallocated may even revert to processing sounds again.

It’s important to note, however, that the length of time the hearing loss goes untreated, and the severity of the auditory deprivation, will have an impact on how effective hearing aids can be in reversing these negative changes in the brain.

In short, treat your hearing loss as early as you can and ensure that you are using your hearing aids properly.

Hearing aids can make a huge difference in your ability to hear and on your mental wellbeing, but they are the most effective when they fit properly and are programmed correctly.

At Discover Hearing, our hearing aid practitioners and full-time registered audiologist are dedicated to providing you with personalized hearing solutions and the best care. If you think you might need a hearing aid, or are experiencing issues with your current hearing aid, contact Discover Hearing today to book an appointment and start hearing more clearly.

What is Noise Pollution – And How Does it Affect You?

info@frontlineconsulting.ca (Peter Quinn) — Mon, 31 Mar 2025 15:19:35 GMT

No one likes dealing with loud or annoying sounds, especially if you are exposed to them on the daily at work, home or during your commute. Crowds, busy traffic and power tools can all produce overwhelming levels of noise and sometimes being subjected to it is unavoidable.

People can feel irritable and worn out if they have to contend with working or living in a noisy location. But did you know that noise pollution can be more than just a nuisance? It can also pose a risk to your hearing health.

What is Noise Pollution?

Noise pollution refers to excessive levels of noise that can have a harmful effect on the health of humans and animals. It can be especially dangerous if you are exposed to these large levels of noise over an extended period.

Generally speaking, sound levels above 85 dB can pose a risk to your hearing if you are continuously exposed to it without taking measures to protect yourself.

Common Sources of Noise Pollution

Noise pollution can be a common hazard for workers in industrial facilities, construction sites or other workplaces where machinery and tools generate a lot of noise.

Outside of work, people may also need to contend with dangerous sound levels if they live near areas with high levels of traffic noise, such as those found near railways, highways or airports.

If you are unsure if you are being exposed to an unsafe level of noise in your daily life, sound level meters can be used to determine the levels of noise in a given area.

How Does Noise Pollution Affect Your Hearing?

Overtime, exposure to high levels of noise pollution can lead to the hair cells in your inner ear getting damaged. These hair cells play an important role in hearing and are responsible for transmitting auditory signals to your brain. When the hair cells in your inner ear are harmed, the result can be temporary or permanent noise-induced hearing loss.

In addition to the risk of hearing loss, noise pollution can also negatively impact your mental health. Intense and persistent sounds can cause a lot of stress, leading to anxiety, mental fatigue and problems with sleeping. Other side effects can include headaches and even elevated blood pressure.

How Can You Protect Your Hearing from Noise Pollution?

One of the most effective ways to reduce your risk of noise-induced hearing loss is to simply avoid areas where you may be exposed to noise pollution or to limit the duration you spend in those areas as much as possible.

When exposure to harmful levels of noise can’t be avoided, such as when it may be required for your job, you should always wear appropriate safety gear, such as protective earmuffs or headphones. Custom earplugs designed to fit your ears can also be a useful and less obtrusive way to manage your exposure to high levels of noise.

If you live in an area where noise pollution is a concern, you can take steps to better soundproof your home or plant trees around your house to act as a natural sound barrier.

If you’re concerned about your hearing, or whether you’ve been exposed to an unsafe level of noise, our registered audiologist can perform an audiometric evaluation to determine if you are experiencing hearing loss. The audiologist will review your results with you and recommend treatment options.

Even if you aren't experiencing any issues with your hearing, it's recommended that you have your hearing tested annually if you work in a high-noise level environment.

We are also St. Albert’s leading destination for custom earmolds and earplugs to help you safeguard your hearing! We supply custom earplugs that are designed to fit the exact contours of your ear for improved noise protection. You can wear them to protect your hearing at work, at noisy events such as concerts or to block out sounds when sleeping.

Contact Discover Hearing today to book your hearing test with our registered audiologist.

The Importance of Establishing a Baseline for Your Hearing

info@frontlineconsulting.ca (Peter Quinn) — Fri, 28 Feb 2025 20:24:40 GMT

Our clients often assume that the only reason an adult should get a hearing evaluation is if they are already experiencing issues with their hearing and need to determine the cause and extent of the hearing loss. However, it can be extremely beneficial to have a hearing test when you aren’t experiencing any issues so that you have a record of your normal hearing baseline.

Baseline hearing assessments serve as protection in case of an illness, injury, or car accident and can provide your audiologist with important information on changes in your hearing over time.

Here are the top reasons why you should book a baseline hearing evaluation with your audiologist.

Catch Hearing Problems Early

It’s very common for minor hearing issues to be overlooked for quite a long time before they progress to a point where the problem is obvious. Having a baseline hearing evaluation on a regular basis can help to catch hearing loss early, allowing you to seek treatment and support.

Have a Point of Comparison

If you experience hearing loss in the future for any reason, Audiologists can reference your past hearing evaluations to get a better understanding of how your hearing has changed. This will help them to determine the most appropriate treatment options for you.

Evidence for Insurance Claims

If you experience hearing loss because of an accident, a baseline hearing evaluation will be necessary for your insurance claims. For example, if you are involved in a vehicle accident and the airbags deploy, hearing loss may occur. If you haven't established a baseline, you will have no proof of your hearing ability before the incident, and therefore, you will not be eligible to file a claim for hearing loss.

This scenario might sound far-fetched, but it’s more common than you think. When an airbag deploys it can generate a sound as loud as 178 decibels. This is significantly louder than a jet engine taking off and can potentially cause hearing damage if directly next to your ear.

Key points about airbag noise:

· Loudness:

Peak sound pressure levels from an airbag deployment can reach up to 178 decibels.

· Impact on hearing:

This level of noise is considered high enough to potentially cause hearing damage, especially if the airbag deploys close to your ear.

Everyone should have their hearing tested regularly, even if you don’t think you’re currently experiencing any hearing loss. If you are a young adult with normal hearing, it’s recommended that you book a baseline hearing evaluation every 5 years. Middle-aged adults should have a hearing assessment more frequently; approximately every 2 years.

Contact Discover Hearing today to book your hearing test with our registered audiologist.

Hearing Loss and Isolation - And How Hearing Aids Can Help!

info@frontlineconsulting.ca (Peter Quinn) — Wed, 29 Jan 2025 16:30:44 GMT

Hearing loss has an impact on all areas of a person’s life, and one of the most pernicious effects can be on their social lives.

Struggling to hear a conversation can make social interactions frustrating and tiring and someone with hearing loss may feel left out or alone even when engaging in social activities. This can put a strain on a person’s existing relationships and it’s not uncommon for someone with hearing loss to start to withdraw from their loved ones. They may stop attending family events or arranging get-togethers with friends. Over time, this isolation can have a profound impact on a person’s quality of life and psychological well-being.

The psychological impacts of hearing loss

Social isolation as a result of hearing loss can lead to a great deal of distress. Not being able to communicate effectively with others means that the person experiencing hearing loss can’t share their troubles and receive adequate support when they need it. As they withdraw from social situations, they may miss out on many of the activities they love, experience friction in their relationships and suffer from loneliness.

When someone with hearing loss does have to interact with someone, they may become anxious or irritable due to how difficult a conversation can be for them to follow. This can have an impact on their sense of self-worth and cause them to withdraw even further.

Studies have found a link between hearing loss and depression in adults of all ages, but especially in older adults. In older adults, hearing loss is also associated with a greater risk of dementia, and it’s theorized that stress from social isolation could be a cause.

How hearing aids help reduce isolation

Using a hearing aid designed to meet their specific needs can be life-changing for someone experiencing hearing loss.

After receiving a hearing aid, many people find that they are more confident in social situations, as they don’t need to worry about missing parts of a conversation or misunderstanding what’s being said. This leads to greater participation in social events, strengthened relationships and more opportunities to form new connections. Overall, hearing loss patients who use hearing aids report improved mental and emotional well-being and are at a lower risk of experiencing depression and isolation.

How to get a hearing aid

Given the many benefits of using a hearing aid to one’s mental health, it’s important to get one as soon as you start to experience problems, rather than waiting until it’s unavoidable.

The process of acquiring a hearing aid starts with a hearing test and consultation with a registered audiologist. They’ll be able to access your hearing condition and make recommendations to ensure you receive the best hearing aid for your specific needs.

Discover Hearing is currently home to St. Albert’s only full-time registered audiologist, and we have 25 years of experience with providing St. Albert with the best hearing solutions. In Alberta, you don’t require a referral to see an audiologist, so contact us today to book an appointment.

When Should You See an Audiologist?

info@frontlineconsulting.ca (Peter Quinn) — Sat, 21 Dec 2024 00:06:13 GMT

A registered audiologist is a health professional who specializes in hearing conditions. They can evaluate, diagnose and provide treatment options for a variety of hearing and balance disorders.

If you have concerns about your hearing but aren’t sure if you should see a specialist, here are four signs that you should make an appointment to see a local audiologist.

1. You’re experiencing issues with your hearing

Some hearing conditions can progress gradually over time, so it’s important to pay attention to minor changes in your hearing. If you’ve been having to turn up the volume higher than normal on your TV or have been experiencing difficulties with following conversations or understanding people on the phone, you should book an appointment for a hearing evaluation with an audiologist.

Noise sensitivity can also be a sign of a hearing condition. If you’re having trouble dealing with everyday sounds or certain sounds now seem much louder than they did in the past, you should have your hearing checked by a professional.

2. You’re experiencing balance issues

If you’ve been experiencing unexplainable dizziness, spinning or a general sense of unsteadiness, this could be caused by an issue in your inner ear. If you’ve been consistently experiencing balance problems, it’s important that you see a specialist right away.

3. You suspect you’re suffering from tinnitus

Tinnitus is characterized by hearing a ringing or buzzing sound that has no discernible source. Usually, this condition is caused by damage in the inner hear and it can often be treated if diagnosed. If you suspect you are experiencing tinnitus, a registered audiologist will be able to assess your condition.

4. You need advice on hearing aids or cochlear implants

If you’re experiencing issues with adapting to using a hearing aid or you suspect that you might need one, a registered audiologist can offer personalized recommendations and ongoing support with your hearing devices. An audiologist will evaluate your needs and discuss the available options, ensuring that you get the treatment or device that best suits your needs.

A registered audiologist can also offer advice on cochlear implants and whether this may be a good option for you.

If you would like to book a hearing evaluation or need a consultation, Discover Hearing is here to help you with all areas of your hearing health. We are currently home to St. Albert’s only full-time registered audiologist and have 25 years of experience serving St. Albert and the surrounding communities. Contact us today to book an appointment.

Discover More about St. Albert’s Most Trusted, Locally Owned Hearing Clinic

info@frontlineconsulting.ca (Peter Quinn) — Mon, 25 Nov 2024 21:48:24 GMT

At Discover Hearing, we’re proud to be St. Albert’s most trusted, locally owned Hearing Clinic and to offer customized treatment plans to people suffering from hearing loss. We have 25 years of experience serving St. Albert and the surrounding communities and we’re home to St. Albert’s only full-time Registered Audiologist!

Being able to see a specialist about your hearing condition can be life changing. We’re happy to have been able to work with the people of St. Albert to improve their hearing health for so many years.

What is a Registered Audiologist?

A Registered Audiologist is a health care professional who specializes in hearing and balance disorders. They can perform hearing tests and diagnose and treat hearing problems of all kinds.

How Can a Registered Audiologist Help You Manage Your Hearing Disorder?

A Registered Audiologist can do more than simply administer hearing evaluations and diagnose hearing conditions. A Registered Audiologist can assess your needs, offer counseling on possible treatment options and provide recommendations on ways to manage your condition. This includes education on hearing protection devices, hearing aids and other technologies that can improve the lives of people living with hearing loss.

While Registered Audiologists cannot perform surgeries, they are able to advise patients on cochlear implants and whether these would be a good option for them.

What Services Does Discover Hearing Offer?

We can provide hearing testing services to anyone 10 years of age and older and our team of dedicated specialists are here to provide you with tailor-made solutions to fit your needs.

A hearing aid is just the first step. Once you have the right technology for your loss, we work with you every step of the way to ensure you get the most from your investment and can get back to living life on your terms.

We offer comprehensive hearing aid services, from hearing evaluations to hearing aid repairs. We strive to stay on top of advances in hearing aid technology so that we can offer the best possible experience to our clients. Whatever your needs may be, we are here to help you on your unique hearing journey.

If you would like to book an audiometric evaluation or consultation with our Registered Audiologist, don’t hesitate to contact us today to book an appointment. Our team can’t wait to help you to reconnect to the world of sound.

Does Your Work Put You at Risk of Hearing Loss?

info@frontlineconsulting.ca (Peter Quinn) — Mon, 25 Nov 2024 21:29:54 GMT

Continuous exposure to loud noises can lead to hearing loss over time, as the intense sound waves wear away the delicate hair cells known as cilia in your inner ear. Cilia are responsible for transforming sound waves into electrical signals that your brain can interpret as sounds - meaning your ability to hear is negatively impacted when your cilia are damaged. This kind of hearing loss can be permanent, so it is important to take the risks posed by noise exposure seriously.

There are a lot of ways someone could be exposed to unsafe levels of noise, but a common place where people encounter this issue is in the workplace.

How to Know if Your Work Puts You at Risk of Hearing Loss – And What to Do About It

Unsafe Workplace Noise Levels

The daily noise level exposure limit for an eight-hour workday is 85dB. In Canada, workplaces where employees may be exposed to noise levels that exceed that are required to provide hearing protection equipment and regular audiometric testing to their workers.

Construction jobsites or workplaces with a lot of machinery are a few examples of places where the noise levels could prove to be hazardous to your hearing health. If you must often shout to be heard during a shift or are experiencing ringing in your ears at the end of a workday, the noise level at your workplace should be investigated so that appropriate measures can be taken to safeguard workers’ hearing health.

Early Signs of Hearing Loss

Damage to hearing from long-term exposure to dangerous levels of noise might not be immediately apparent to the sufferer. It can take time for noise-induced hearing loss to develop to a point that it is obvious, and the person affected by it likely won’t experience any pain.

As such, it’s important to pay attention to smaller signs of hearing loss so that problems can be caught early. If you experience ringing or buzzing in your ears, you find yourself having to raise the volume higher than normal on the TV, find that speech sounds muffled or have difficulty hearing certain types of sounds (e.g. high-pitched sounds), you should book yourself in for a hearing exam.

Not all potential warning signs are related to hearing. Some people might also experience feelings of dizziness, fatigue or pressure in their ears, so be sure to pay attention to any signs that something isn’t right with your ears.

How to Minimize Your Risks of Noise-Induced Hearing Loss

If you’re finding the level of noise at your workplace aggravating or feel like it could be hazardous to your hearing, it is important to take steps to protect yourself and your colleagues.

Bring the issue to the attention of your supervisor or Health and Safety Officer so they can perform an exposure assessment and implement a noise management program. These programs should include regular audiometric testing and noise control measures, such as the use of earmuffs and ear plugs or finding ways to reduce the noise levels (e.g. purchasing quieter equipment or using barriers to muffle the noise).

You can also take steps to distance yourself from noise sources at your workplace and take regular breaks from noisy areas. If you’d like custom noise protection, you can also have earmolds made that will match the contours of your ear and offer the best possible protection.

If you require custom hearing protection or would like to have an audiometric evaluation done to check for hearing loss, our registered audiologists are here to help.

Discover Hearing is the longest established, independent, locally owed hearing clinic in St. Albert and the only hearing clinic in the city with a Full Time Certified Audiologist. We can provide testing services to anyone 10 years of age and older and our team is ready to provide you with tailor-made solutions to fit your needs. Contact us today to book an appointment.

How to Properly Care for Your Hearing Aids

info@frontlineconsulting.ca (Peter Quinn) — Mon, 23 Sep 2024 22:43:46 GMT

Your hearing aids are a vital tool that can help you to fully experience sounds and get the most out of your daily life. To keep them in proper working condition, and extend the lifespan of your device, you’ll want to ensure that you’re taking good care of them.

Here are 5 Tips for Properly Caring for Your Hearing Aids

Store in a Safe Place

It’s not uncommon for hearing aids to become broken from being dropped, mishandled or accidentally stepped on. It’s best to take steps to avoid these kinds of little accidents so you don’t constantly need to repair or replace your hearing aids. Store your hearing aids in a protective case in a cool, dry place out of reach of small children and pets when you aren’t wearing them.

Be Aware of IP Ratings

Many manufacturers are making hearing aids that are more water-resistant than they were in the past, meaning you usually won’t need to worry about wearing them in the rain for a short period of time. However, not all hearing aids are the same and it’s important to be aware of the IP rating on your model.

An IP rating consists of two digits, with the first indicating how protected your device is from dust and the second indicating how resistant it is to water. Water protection is measured on a scale of 0-9, with zero indicating that there is no water protection at all and the higher numbers indicating that the device is well protected. For example, if your hearing aids’ IP rating is IP58, they have a water protection rating of 8 and are very water-resistant. If your hearing aids have a low IP rating for water protection, you’ll need to be more vigilant about safeguarding them from moisture.

Clean Regularly

Hearing aids should be cleaned daily. Use a soft cleaning cloth to wipe the shell of the device clean and the wax brush provided with your hearing aid to clean away debris from the receiver and microphone. If your device has a replaceable wax filter, exchange it regularly. Don’t use any cleaning chemicals or a dripping wet cloth to try to remove stubborn wax build up, as these could damage your hearing aid.

Avoid Intense Heat

Heat over 90 degrees Fahrenheit can damage your hearing aids. Keep them away from heat sources and out of direct sunlight. If you live in an area with a hot climate, you may need to exercise caution when wearing hearing aids outdoors on days when the sun and heat is especially intense.

Don’t Expose to Chemicals

Many common products contain chemicals that could be harmful to your hearing aid. You should remove your hearing aid before applying perfume, aftershave, hairspray, sunscreen or insect repellent to keep your device safe.

Have you noticed a change in the quality of sound delivered by your hearing aid or any unexplained whistling or buzzing sounds while it’s in use? If so, your hearing aid may have been damaged. If your hearing aid requires some upkeep or if you’re in need of a replacement, we offer comprehensive hearing aid services and repairs on all hearing aids. Contact us today to book an appointment.

The Impact of Hearing Loss on Dementia Risk

info@frontlineconsulting.ca (Peter Quinn) — Mon, 19 Aug 2024 15:35:11 GMT

With each passing year, the evidence showing that hearing loss has a negative impact on brain health increases. Now, a recent study conducted by the University of Southern Denmark (SDU) shows just how connected hearing and brain health truly are.

The Link Between Hearing Loss and Dementia

Published in January 2024, this major study from SDU is the largest study of its kind and included 573,088 participants over the age of 50. Researchers collected information on the patient’s hearing from hearing clinics and compared it with dementia data, with a median follow-up time of 10 years.

The results show a clear link between hearing loss and dementia. According to the SDU study, hearing loss was associated with a 7% higher risk of dementia. If hearing loss was untreated with the use of hearing aids, the associated risk of dementia increased to 20%. This indicates that using hearing aids can have a protective effect on people experiencing hearing loss, either delaying or possibly preventing the onset of dementia.

How Hearing Loss Increases the Risk of Dementia

Now that the link between hearing loss and dementia has been demonstrated, the next natural question is why do we see an increased risk of dementia in people with hearing loss?

Scientists have several theories to explain the impact hearing loss can have on brain health. It’s hypothesized that struggling to follow conversations can lead to increased mental strain and stress for people with hearing loss, which could exasperate existing symptoms of dementia. Another possible factor is that some people might withdraw from social situations because of hearing loss, leading to increased isolation and other mental health struggles which could impact their brain health over time.

While these theories offer possible explanations, further research is needed to allow for a better understanding of why exactly hearing loss increases the risk of dementia. Until then, we can be thankful that the study conducted by the University of Southern Denmark provided us with insight in how to mitigate this risk factor.

How You Can Reduce Your Risk

People suffering from hearing loss can take action to reduce the negative effect that hearing loss has on their risk of dementia. While it didn’t eliminate the higher risk factor, using hearing aids to treat hearing loss significantly lowered the associated risk of dementia. Improving hearing can also reduce the risk of depression and other mental health conditions for people with hearing loss, making the use of hearing aids an important component for maintaining brain health.

Proper hearing interventions through hearing tests and the use of hearing aids to improve your hearing health can lead to big improvements in your quality of life and overall well-being. Make audiometric testing part of your normal health maintenance routines. Book a hearing test today!

Guide to Selecting Hearing Aids

info@frontlineconsulting.ca (Peter Quinn) — Sat, 08 Jan 2022 01:16:21 GMT

Selecting hearing aids tends to be more complex than other purchases. Many of us are used to comparing products online, reading reviews from experts and regular people, or talking to our friends and family about their experiences.

Hearing aids are different because:

There is a wide variety of hearing aid styles and technologies, each with its pros and cons.
The best hearing aids for you depend on more than just personal preferences. It depends on the state of your hearing, lifestyle and budget.
A comprehensive hearing test is critical to determine if hearing aids are necessary and which type will provide effective amplification.
There is a large range in prices and funding options available.

The key to selecting hearing aids is understanding your hearing needs – and then choosing the technology that will make the biggest difference.

Differences Between Hearing Aids

Choosing the best hearing aids can be challenging because there are a wide diversity of styles, features and technologies.

How hearing aids work

Understanding how hearing aids work and what it means for you is integral to selecting hearing aids.

Hearing involves a complex interaction between our brains and ears . Our brains are responsible for filtering, interpreting and comprehending sounds and can even fill in missing information when needed.

Hearing aids utilize the brain's ability to adapt to sounds. They do this by improving the quality and clarity of sound that enters the ear, providing the brain with better stimuli to interpret. Hearing instrument specialists adjust hearing aids to maximize the sound input according to the hearing challenges that you face.

Hearing aid styles

Hearing aid styles describe the shape and physical fit of the hearing aid. Some styles deliver better performance (so it can help with more profound hearing losses), while other styles are designed to be discreet.

The common styles of modern hearing aids are:

Behind the ear styles (BTE): These devices sit behind the ear and have a receiver inside the ear canal (usually used for mild to moderately severe hearing loss) or an ear mold (usually used for moderate to profound hearing loss).

In The Ear Styles (ITE): These devices are worn in the ear and are usually custom molded to the wearer. They are either hidden completely in the ear canal, sit in the ear canal where they can be partially seen, or are a full shell that sits in the outer ear. Devices that sit completely and partially in the canal can treat up to moderately severe hearing loss.

Although each style has its own benefits and drawbacks, the technology inside the devices tends to be the more important factor. Hearing aids with more advanced technology are designed to treat more severe hearing loss, but they also tend to be more expensive.

Guide to Selecting Hearing Aids

The recent boom of hearing aid styles and types is good news for wearers: there are more technologies that can help manage the specific challenges that you face. When you select the right hearing aids, you will notice greater improvements in comfort, sound quality and convenience.

Follow these steps to selecting hearing aids to ensure you find the options that are best for you.

1. Get a hearing test

Hearing tests determine the state of your hearing system, how well you hear various sounds, how well you comprehend speech and the cause or type of your hearing loss.

At Discover Hearing, we will use the results from your hearing test to create an audiogram and help you visualize your hearing loss . Audiograms can show you which sounds you can hear well – and which sounds you likely struggle with. Everyone has a different audiogram, which highlights why we personalize our recommendations for hearing aids.

If you have scheduled an appointment, here are tips to prepare for a hearing test .

2. Discuss the results with a hearing health professional

After your hearing test, you can expect a two-way conversation with your clinician.

We want to hear about your daily life, work, lifestyle (such as your hobbies and routines), places you notice hearing challenges, preferences in hearing aid style, preferences in hearing aid technology and budget.

Your hearing health professional will share the options that match your preferences and needs, the pros and cons of each option and what to expect from the entire process.

Our goal is to provide recommendations and an understanding of the benefits or drawbacks of each style and technology level of hearing aid. Your hearing health professional can also walk you through payment options and will help you find a device that matches your hearing and your budget.

3. Take time to consider your options

At Discover Hearing, we don’t expect you to make a decision right away.

We understand that hearing aids are complex and that you need to consider the style, fit, features, technology level, pricing and more. We encourage you to consider the information we provide and to take your time choosing an option that best suits your needs.

We will provide our top hearing aid picks so that you can go on and do your own research. And don't hesitate to contact us at any point with any questions.

After You Select Hearing Aids

You can try your new hearing aids to confirm they are the best option. At Discover Hearing, we offer a 30-day trial with new hearing aids and ongoing support from our clinicians to help you get used to new hearing aids . We will give you tips on how to start out slowly to minimize discomfort while still giving your brain a chance to adjust. Learn more from our tips for success with hearing aids .

Future of Hearing Aid Connectivity

info@frontlineconsulting.ca (Peter Quinn) — Mon, 06 Dec 2021 22:16:24 GMT

Future of Hearing Aid Connectivity

Bluetooth technology was first introduced to hearing aids in 2005 – two years before the first iPhone was introduced. Although the technology was limited and it was a major drain on the batteries, it was a leap in connectivity for digital hearing aids.

Today, many hearing aids come with various connectivity technologies to enable them to wirelessly connect to:

Smartphones, tablets, computers, televisions and other personal devices
Public sound systems in theatres, places of worship and concert venues
Speaker systems at public service providers
One another (that is, your left hearing aid connects with your right hearing aid)

Bluetooth hearing aids are the most well-known connectivity technology, but it certainly isn’t the only technology in modern devices. Looking to the future, we expect hearing aid connectivity will continue to improve in functionality and compatibility – all while not draining the battery.

Here is an overview of hearing aid connectivity and what we expect from the future.

Types of Hearing Aid Connectivity Technology

Bluetooth Hearing Aids

Bluetooth is a common technology that transmits data between devices that are near each other. From computer mouses, earbuds, speakers and more, Bluetooth has become known for its convenience and universality.

Bluetooth hearing aids can connect to smartphones, televisions, radios, music players and accessories like remote microphones. Here are a few of the things you can do with Bluetooth hearing aids:

Connect to smartphones: Bluetooth connects hearing aids to smartphones, allowing you to adjust the device volume and settings. Some hearing aids use Bluetooth to find lost or misplaced hearing aids.
Television streaming: Hearing aids can stream sound directly from your TV to your hearing aid (additional accessories may be required).
Remote microphones: If you have trouble hearing in loud environments, you can use a remote microphone to better target and capture the sounds you want to hear.
Phone calls: Using additional devices or apps, you can take calls over Bluetooth with your hearing aids.

Telecoil Technology

Telecoil technology is older than Bluetooth. It involves coiled copper wires found inside the hearing aids that respond to electromagnetic signals sent by other devices. Many public places are set up with “loop systems” to transmit signals for telecoil-enabled hearing aids.

Telecoils were originally used to connect to old telephones that naturally emitted electromagnetic signals. Although newer telephones don’t produce electromagnetic signals, they still come with equipment designed to connect to telecoils.

Although it’s an older technology, most modern hearing aids are equipped with telecoils.

One benefit of telecoil technology is that it can receive information from further away than Bluetooth.

Public places all over the world have hearing loop systems that broadcast information to telecoil hearing aids. Many churches, auditoriums, libraries, recreational centres, libraries and public service desks improve accessibility and convenience through the use of loop systems.

Short-Range Communication

Not only do hearing aids communicate with your smartphone or television, but they also communicate with each other. Near-field magnetic induction technology allows hearing aids to sync volume changes with each other, take phone calls in each ear, reduce background noises and provide directional sound input. When properly calibrated, you won’t even notice your hearing aids are communicating with each other.

The ability for hearing aids to communicate between both ears is one of the greatest technological hearing aid advancements of the last ten years. It’s the reason they can calculate the direction that sounds come from and suppress unwanted background noise. Modern hearing aids can even block sound out of one ear if something like a strong wind hits it and then broadcast the sound from the other ear into both.

Future of Hearing Aid Connectivity

Although we are unable to predict the future of hearing aids, there are noticeable trends in technology that we expect to continue. This is what we predict for the future of hearing aid connectivity.

Better Battery Life

Connectivity (especially Bluetooth) used to put a strain on battery life, but this is no longer the case. It is expected that future hearing aids will continue to advance in connectivity options but will not impact battery life.

Seamless Connections

Modern hearing aids can connect to devices like vehicles, televisions and smartwatches. Over time, we expect this list of devices will continue to grow.

Newer smart hearing aids can easily (and often automatically) switch between the Bluetooth device they are connected to. Modern hearing aid connectivity seamlessly provides users with a world of features.

More Wireless Accessories

As Bluetooth technology becomes more common, it also becomes more affordable. We expect there will be even more accessories that can connect to hearing aids, like wireless microphones, TV adapters, controllers and more. The possibilities are limitless.

Better Smartphone Apps

Hearing aid apps allow users to adjust volume levels, change noise filters and control connections to Bluetooth devices. As smartphone apps improve in functionality, they will allow anyone to better control their hearing aids.

If you have any questions about the features of your hearing aids, book an appointment today. We are always excited to help you get the most out of your hearing aids.

How to Prepare for a Hearing Test

info@frontlineconsulting.ca (Peter Quinn) — Wed, 10 Nov 2021 17:10:56 GMT

A big part of your first appointment at Discover Hearing is a hearing test . By understanding the health of your ears and hearing system, we can determine the options to help you hear better.

Here is what to expect during your hearing test appointment and what you can do to make the most out of your visit. If you're ready for a hearing test, book an appointment at Discover Hearing.

Why Hearing Tests are Essential

Hearing tests are the foundation for diagnosing and treating ear-related issues. The more we know about your ears and hearing system, the better decisions you can make.

The five main reasons to get a hearing test are:

Determine the state of your current hearing

Hearing tests will determine the state of your hearing system and if you have any hearing loss. We will play you various tones and speech sounds to determine how well you can hear and distinguish them.

The results from this test will help your clinician determine which sounds you do and do not hear well and the potential causes of your hearing loss. It's important to determine this information as early as possible because treatment can prevent further damage.

Get a hearing baseline

Your first hearing test will be a hearing baseline. Your baseline acts as a reference point to determine if you experience further hearing loss. It also provides us with a timeline for when your hearing loss started and the speed at which it's changing.

Understand how hearing loss impacts your life

Our hearing tests are designed to determine how hearing loss impacts your daily life. Hearing loss and its associated effects vary from person to person. For some people, the effects are obvious. For others, the effects may not be noticeable until they are identified (such as the effects of hearing loss on mental health ).

Get information to make an informed decision

Just as there are many types of hearing loss, there are many hearing loss treatments. Your hearing test will allow your clinician to create a personalized treatment plan. Some common hearing loss treatments include therapy, assistive listening devices or hearing aids.

Be proactive with your health

Like other regular health checkups, hearing tests are important for maintaining overall health. Hearing loss often goes unnoticed, so regular hearing tests can identify potential issues sooner and prevent further damage.

Like other medical conditions, early diagnosis and treatment will produce the best outcomes for your health and well-being. Book a hearing test with us today so that we can address your hearing concerns.

Hearing Tests at Discover Hearing

The goals of your first appointment at Discover Hearing are to:

Determine the type and degree of sounds you hear
Understand how much speech you can comprehend
If possible, identify the type and causes of your hearing loss
Discuss how your hearing challenges impact your life
Review your hearing goals
Consider options for the next steps

Here's what you can expect when you come in for an audiometric evaluation at Discover Hearing:

Meet with your hearing practitioner
Discuss your hearing challenges with your practitioner
Review your health history
Discuss your lifestyle, hobbies, work and hearing goals
Conduct audiometric assessments
Review result and discuss options for next steps

Meet with your hearing practitioner

We recommend bringing a family member or friend with you. This additional person can not only provide your clinician with an additional perspective, but they can provide you with a better understanding of your visit.

Discuss your hearing challenges with your practitioner

We want you to be an active participant in your hearing health, and we encourage you to ask questions!

Review your health history

Your ears function in tandem with the rest of your body. Things like medications and head trauma can cause hearing loss, so it's important that your practitioner is aware of your entire medical history.

Discuss your lifestyle, hobbies, work and hearing goals

Our ultimate goal is to improve your quality of life. To do this, we need to understand how your hearing loss impacts your ability to function. Do you have trouble hearing what people are saying at a restaurant? Does your family complain that you turn the television volume up too loud? Questions like these help us understand your hearing needs.

Conduct audiometric assessments

Our comprehensive hearing evaluations determine if hearing loss is present and, if so, what type it is and how severe it is. Your hearing aid practitioner will use this information to create a custom treatment plan.

Review result and discuss options for next steps

Your hearing aid practitioner will explain which type of hearing loss you're experiencing, and they will provide you with the best treatment options.

How to Prepare for Your Hearing Test

Our hearing tests include audiometric evaluations followed by a discussion of how your hearing challenges impact your life. The more you tell us about your hearing and your lifestyle, the better options we can recommend that will make the biggest difference in your daily routine.

Here are questions to consider as you prepare for your appointment:

Where do you notice challenges with your hearing? Consider places or situations where you find it annoying or difficult to hear.
Ask your close family members or friends: have you noticed any places or situations where I struggle with my hearing? Sometimes, family members or friends notice hearing challenges before you do.
When did you first notice hearing challenges? Or, when did you first consider getting a hearing test and why?
What concerns do you have about the idea of wearing hearing aids? We may not recommend hearing aids, but if so, we want to understand your concerns so we can suggest the best technology.

What You Will Get from your Hearing Test

Hearing tests are an important first step towards treating hearing loss. They provide clarity on the state of your hearing and how perceivable and unperceivable hearing challenges impact your life. They present you with a better understanding of the causes and impacts of hearing loss, and they grant us options to improve your hearing.

You're not expected to make a decision right after your hearing test, but we'll leave you with as much information as possible. Book a hearing test with us today so that we can help you discover a solution for your hearing loss that's uniquely tailored to you.

Tips For Success With Hearing Aids

info@frontlineconsulting.ca (Peter Quinn) — Wed, 06 Oct 2021 21:46:15 GMT

The top indicator for the success of hearing aids is that they're regularly used and become a part of your daily routine. This demonstrates the benefits of the devices – both noticeable or unnoticeable – outweigh some of the real or perceived challenges.

We understand that success with hearing aids is sometimes not immediate. It takes time to adapt to the new devices, and ongoing support can optimize the hearing aids over time. Fortunately, there are strategies that can help you make the most out of your hearing aids.

If you're selecting new hearing aids or already have devices, consider these tips for success with hearing aids. If you've recently got new devices, see our guide to getting used to new hearing aids.

Why do hearing aids fail?

The opposite of hearing aid success is failure. Most often, failure is when the hearing aids are rarely used and considered a mistake.

Hearing aids fail when the wearer doesn't get sufficient benefit from wearing them. Although there are a number of reasons this happens, it's usually because they were not properly matched to the wearer. Selecting the proper features and technologies is critical in the success of hearing aids.

Here are the top reasons why hearing aids are not regularly used:

If the hearing aids aren't necessary

Sometimes, the type or degree of hearing loss doesn't warrant hearing aids. Hearing aids may not be the best option for hearing loss caused by physical damage to the inner ear and auditory nerve. Alternative treatments (like cochlear implants) are often used to treat this kind of hearing loss.

If the hearing aids are expected to be a quick fix

Hearing is a complex process involving your ears and brain. Due to the brain's role in hearing , it can take some time to adjust to hearing aids.

Our brains are constantly adapting to sounds and can amplify and reduce them depending on our environment. For example, consider how we can focus on a single person's voice in a crowded restaurant or determine which direction sounds come from. Just as our brains adapt to our environment, they also adapt to hearing aids. This process sometimes takes time so hearing aids may not be a quick fix.

If the hearing aids are not fit properly

Sometimes hearing aid technology is beneficial, but the hearing aids are not properly programmed. Properly fitting new hearing aids goes beyond the physical fit: it's about programming the devices to the hearing loss of the wearer.

Modern hearing aids come with sophisticated computers that can be programmed to boost or block out certain sounds. Hearing aid fitting optimizes this technology so the output is more balanced and sounds natural.

If there is a lack of support

The process of getting used to new hearing aids can be bumpy and confusing at times. Ongoing support and adjustments from hearing care professionals will catch challenges earlier and determine appropriate solutions.

One of the main benefits of professional support is clarity on what to expect at every stage with new hearing aids. You can ask questions, troubleshoot problems and determine if your experience is normal.

Tips for success with hearing aids

At Discover Hearing, our focus is on helping people find hearing aids that they will look forward to using. We want to avoid decisions that you regret, so we rely on comprehensive testing, ongoing support and clear communication at every stage.

Here are our top tips for success with new hearing aids:

Get a comprehensive hearing test

Getting a comprehensive hearing test is the best way to find out if hearing aids are right for you. Our 30 to 40-minute audiometric evaluations can determine the severity, type and possibly the cause of your hearing loss.

Our registered hearing aid practitioners will use the information from a hearing test to outline the benefits and potential drawbacks of hearing aids. If hearing aids are recommended, we'll show you what to expect from different types of devices.

Understand the process and be patient

Your hearing instrument specialist will walk you through every step of the hearing aid process. They will explain the type and severity of your hearing loss, and then create a timeline so that you can evaluate milestones and measure your progress.

Again, this is a gradual process involving regular visits with your hearing instrument specialist and ongoing adjustments.

Ensure your hearing aids are fit properly

Discover Hearing will properly fit your hearing aids. This goes beyond the physical fit of the hearing aids and ensures your hearing aids match your hearing loss. You can expect:

Appropriate programming of your hearing aids to match your needs
Verification the programming is accurate
Review of the comfort and positioning of the devices

It is our priority to ensure your hearing aids match your hearing loss so they will deliver the best possible results.

Get support

Ongoing professional support is included with your hearing aids from Discover Hearing. We will encourage you to come in for follow-up visits to check on your progress and confirm the hearing aids are working as expected.

We will answer all your questions and offer strategies to share what you are going through with your family and friends. Our team will demonstrate how to operate and maintain the devices, and we're available to clean your hearing aids or troubleshoot issues. If there are ever any issues, we are here to help.

Success is a moving target

Hearing aid success isn't the same for everyone. It can be a moving target: as you get more used to hearing aids, your hearing instrument specialist may adjust the settings to increase your amplification. As your lifestyle or hearing changes, we will continue to optimize your hearing aids so you get the most out of the devices.

Discover Hearing wants you to succeed. We don't want your hearing aids to remain in a

drawer. Book an appointment with us today so that we can work with you to understand your needs and find a solution that's tailored to you.

Mental Health and Hearing Loss

info@frontlineconsulting.ca (Peter Quinn) — Thu, 02 Sep 2021 22:55:45 GMT

Untreated hearing loss is an invisible challenge that can impact mental well-being

Hearing loss and mental health are intertwined. The complex connection between your brains and your ears means that anxiety, depression, dementia and more can be associated with changes in your hearing.

Along with your medical history and exposure to noise, the causes of hearing loss are a culmination of factors. Changes in mental health can be both a symptom of hearing loss as well as a potential cause.

The effects of hearing loss on mental health are sometimes not as noticeable as the physical effects, but they can prevent people from maintaining a healthy lifestyle. Here is why hearing loss can impact mental health.

Why hearing loss impacts mental health

The brain’s role in hearing is just as important as your ears.

Brains give sound meaning. After the ears gather sounds and transform them into electrical signals, the brain interprets these signals. Not only do our brains comprehend sounds and speech, but it also helps us understand where sounds come from. We can even focus on particular sounds – such as listening to a friend at a busy restaurant.

Our brain is also adaptable. If the incoming sound signals are incomplete or unclear, the brain can fill in a missing piece. Hearing aids leverage this adaptability by helping to provide more complete and balanced sound signals to the brain.

The auditory cortex is responsible for focusing on and interpreting sounds, but it doesn’t work alone. The thalamus tells us if a sound is threatening, like a lion’s roar or a police siren. Your prefrontal cortex connects sounds to information from other senses like facial expressions and knowledge of your surroundings.

Our brains work harder to interpret sounds when we experience hearing loss. This is because your brain needs to fill in missing information from the sounds you don’t hear, often resulting in fatigue and exhaustion. The exhaustion, lack of stimulation and feelings of isolation from hearing loss can contribute to anxiety, depression and dementia.

Effects of hearing loss

Hearing loss impacts everyone differently, but some of the potential impacts to mental health include fatigue, anxiety, depression, isolation and dementia.

Fatigue

The brain needs to work overtime if it struggles with comprehending the sound signals it receives. Whether to filter out background noise or estimate sounds it’s not hearing, it can all be very exhausting.

Although eliminating background noise, taking breaks and taking naps can help with listening fatigue, the best solution is to look into options to treat hearing loss.

Anxiety and Depression

Hearing loss can impact our lifestyle, work and relationships. These unexpected or undesired changes can contribute to anger, denial and grief. The stress of missing parts of conversations and not being able to participate in activities you used to enjoy are just two examples of how hearing loss can contribute to anxiety and depression.

Isolation and Loneliness

It can be annoying, frustrating or embarrassing to constantly ask people to repeat themselves or strain to follow conversations. Struggling to connect with others in social situations can be extremely isolating.

Some people with hearing loss choose to avoid situations where hearing is difficult. For some, this is a deliberate choice. For others, they may not even realize why they are choosing to avoid social interactions.

Dementia

Hearing loss can also contribute to dementia. The connection between hearing loss and dementia is not well understood, but ongoing research is seeking more information on the causes and impacts of hearing challenges on memory.

One research paper from 2011 reviewed the associations between hearing loss and dementia over 12 years. Researchers found that the more severe a participant's hearing loss was, the more likely they were to have dementia.

Hearing loss may be associated with dementia simply because your brain receives less stimulation when you have hearing loss. This is another reason to treat hearing loss as early on as possible.

What to do for your hearing health

Getting a hearing test is the first step towards treating hearing loss and improving your mental health. Hearing tests at Discover Hearing last between 30 to 40 minutes, and they involve various assessments including:

Audiometric evaluation: If you have hearing loss, this test can determine its type, severity and often its cause.
Pure-tone air and bone conduction testing: These tests measure the quietest sounds you can hear at both low and high frequencies. This helps us determine the type of hearing loss.
Speech testing: These tests evaluate the lowest volume you recognize speech as meaningful sound. This tells us which volume you can comfortably understand speech sounds.
Additional tests: We will also perform tympanometry and otoscopy to determine your middle ear and ear canal health.

The connection between mental health and hearing loss is complex, but it is clear that healthy hearing can contribute to better mental health. If you are concerned about your hearing, book an appointment for a hearing test .

And if you are concerned about the hearing of a family member or friend, encourage them to book a hearing test. Similar to dementia, hearing loss is sometimes noticed first by family or friends.

How Hearing Aids Work and What It Means For You

info@frontlineconsulting.ca (Peter Quinn) — Thu, 02 Sep 2021 22:52:47 GMT

How Hearing Aids Work and What It Means For You

Hearing aids leverage the brain's ability to adapt and process sounds

Hearing aids aren't as simple as just putting them in and forgetting them.

The body's hearing system is complex. Hearing aid technology leverages the brain's ability to adapt and process sounds to help you collect and comprehend sound.

Hearing aids usually have a microphone for receiving and converting sound into electrical signals, an amplifier that increases the volume of the sound and a speaker that projects sound into the ear. They help manage hearing loss by increasing the volume of sound entering the ear and improving the quality and clarity of that sound.

Understanding what happens in these devices, in your ears and your brain can lead to better success when using hearing aids.

How the Ears and Brain Process Sounds

Before diving into hearing aids, let's review how sound is collected and processed.

Ears are responsible for collecting soundwaves, converting them into signals and transmitting those signals to our brain. It is our brain's job to:

- Interpret sounds

- Filter out unwanted sounds

- Comprehend speech

- Fill in any gaps that the incoming signals were missing

In healthy ears, soundwaves move tiny hairs and those movements are transformed into electrical signals that are sent to your brain through the auditory nerve. Hearing loss usually occurs when these cells are damaged, meaning less information for the brain to interpret and comprehend.

Not only does this result in you hearing less, but your brain can also forget some of the ways it interprets sound.

The way that the brain and ears work together is a complex and fascinating process. You can read about it more in our previous article about the brain's role in hearing .

How Hearing Aids Work

Hearing aids work by increasing the volume and clarity of sound entering the ear. This is because damaged hearing cells often require sound to be at a louder volume to react to it. Hearing aids are optimized to pick up or block certain sounds according to the sounds that you can hear well (or not hear well, which helps your brain in relearning how to interpret them.

There are five main components of hearing aids:

1. A power source (usually a disposable or rechargeable battery)

2. Microphone

3. Amplifier

4. Speaker

5. Processor (also known as the miniature computer)

First, the microphone captures sound waves. Then these sound waves are converted into code to be interpreted by the processor. The processor then makes any necessary adjustments to this code, which is then sent to the amplifier.

It's thanks to the miniature computers that modern hearing aids are programmable. This allows you and your Hearing Instrument Specialist to customize the direction you receive sound from, improve speech perception, increase or decrease gain to reduce feedback and reduce background noise in loud environments.

Depending on the features and technology inside the hearing aid, some of these features may be manual or automatic. More advanced hearing aids are automating more functionality and allow for improved customization.

What This Means For Your Hearing

Although we are always excited to describe the inner working of hearing aids, the real value of the technology depends on how it benefits your life. The key takeaways of hearing aid technology are:

· Hearing aids integrate within your hearing system to help you hear.

· Success with hearing aids is a moving target.

· There is potential for continuous improvement.

· Professional support ensures hearing aids provide the most help they can.

Hearing aids integrate within your hearing system to help you hear

Hearing aids support the functioning of your ears and assist your brain by sending better signals, but they don't replace your ears or brain.

Instead, hearing aids support their functions by sending better signals to the brain. They boost the volume of sound that's sent into the ear and the quality of this sound so that it works with your brain. This eventually helps your brain relearn how to distinguish between things like background noise and regular speech.

Success with hearing aids is a moving target

The process of hearing relies on the brain. Your brain needs time to adapt to new hearing aids.

Our Hearing Aid Practitioners will program and customize your hearing aids so that they are helpful and comfortable. Over time and even after you are used to them, we can adjust to improve their output and better help you.

There is potential for continuous improvement

This technology is meant to be routinely adjusted.

It is our priority to help our clients through every step of the journey. If you ever notice any discomfort, high pitched sounds or changes in audio volume at any point (even after having acclimated to your hearing aids), please contact us!

It is expected as part of regular hearing aid treatment that your devices be regularly re-programmed. This is because your lifestyle likely change over time along with your hearing.

Professional support ensures hearing aids provide the most help they can

Hearing aid technology has the ability to integrate within your hearing system to help your brain comprehend sounds. With professional support, you can leverage the technology to hear better in a wider range of situations and continue to experience these benefits as your hearing adapts.

If you are wondering if hearing aids are right for you, the first step is to book a hearing test so that we can get a better understanding of which technology will work best for your brain.

Getting Used To Hearing Aids

info@frontlineconsulting.ca (Peter Quinn) — Thu, 02 Sep 2021 22:50:31 GMT

Getting used to new hearing aids

It is normal to require time to adjust to new hearing aids. Even if you have been wearing hearing aids for years, upgrading to new devices often requires a transition period to get used to the different hearing aids.

When you get new hearing aids, your brain needs time to adjust. But this is also an opportunity. Over time, your hearing aids can be attuned to offer more benefits and more assistance in situations that are challenging.

We understand that adjusting to new hearing aids can be uncomfortable. Our hearing specialists are available to help at every step, so you can quickly get used to your new hearing aids and receive more benefits from the technology.

How your brain adapts to new hearing aids

The role of the brain in hearing is essential and explains why it takes time for you to adapt to new hearing aids.

The brain processes the signals it receives from the ears. If the signals are incomplete or weak, the brain can fill in the gaps and adapt to help you hear in a broader range of conditions. Our brains are incredible at adapting to process noises into understandable sounds.

Just as the brain adapts to weak or incomplete sound signals, it needs time to adjust when those signals are strengthened. New hearing aids contribute to comprehensive and balanced sounds, so the brain receives complete and more accurate signals.

When you begin wearing new hearing aids, your brain is receiving a different range and strength of signals. This can be uncomfortable and distracting, so we often program new hearing aids to be quieter than required. Over time, your brain will adapt to the new hearing aids.

What to expect from your first days

The first days with new hearing aids are similar to turning on a light in a dark room.

Your eyes are used to the dark and can even make out some objects despite the absence of a light source. Your brain has adapted to processing sights under dark conditions. When a light is suddenly turned on, it can be uncomfortable. But after a few seconds, you can see.

Your brain requires some time to adjust to new hearing aids. To avoid overwhelm, the hearing aids are programmed with consideration for the change you are experiencing. With time, your brain adapts.

This process is streamlined with the support of a hearing aid practitioner. At Discover Hearing, we encourage you to return for a few follow-up appointments after receiving new hearing aids. We will adjust your hearing aids and provide tips to adapt to the new devices as quickly as possible.

Tips for adjusting to new hearing aids

When you get new hearing aids from Discover Hearing, we will help you adjust through ongoing support. Follow-up appointments are critical in understanding your progress and monitoring the performance of the hearing aids. We will also share any tips that will be useful to your transitional period.

Keep us up-to-date with how you are feeling

Your hearing aid practitioner is available to listen to your experiences – good and bad. We can recommend what is best for you based on what is working well and what challenges you face with your new hearing aids.

Follow your comfort level

It takes time to get used to hearing aids. The goal is to use them regularly, but it is okay if you don’t get to that point right away. We recommend taking note of the situations, places or times of day when you decide to take a break from your devices. This information will assist your hearing aid practitioner in making adjustments or offer recommendations.

Start with one-on-one conversations

Have conversations with your family member, partner or friends – people you can be honest with. If the conversations are carrying on without significant distractions, then try introducing some other noises or experiment in different environments. Again, take note of what is fine and what is challenging.

Acknowledge and appreciate new sounds

It is normal to hear new sounds again (such as the ticking of your vehicle’s turn signal). While you get to enjoy the sounds you want to hear, sometimes this means you’ll listen to unwanted or unfamiliar noises. For example, even your voice may sound different. If you are removing your hearing aids to limit unwanted sounds, let your hearing aid practitioner know.

Hearing aids will change your life

Hearing aids will change your life, but it is normal to need an adjustment period. We want everyone with new hearing aids to experience the full benefits of their devices – as you adjust to them and afterwards.

We are available to discuss the challenges and opportunities you experience. And we hope you share them with your hearing aid practitioner. This will help us better adjust your hearing aids to make an even more significant difference in your life.

Top 5 reasons to get a hearing test

info@frontlineconsulting.ca (Peter Quinn) — Mon, 09 Aug 2021 12:00:02 GMT

An audiometric evaluation can determine if you have hearing loss and which options are available to help you hear better

If you have experienced a decline in your hearing, you may have considered booking a hearing test, but what if you haven’t noticed any changes?

Hearing tests are not only for people who are having difficulty hearing. A hearing test is an integral part of monitoring and maintaining your overall health.

Hearing loss often goes unnoticed. 77% of adults in Canada with hearing loss aren’t even aware they have hearing loss, according to a 2019 report from Statistics Canada . This is why a hearing test is critical in determining if hearing loss is present.

But there are many more reasons to have your hearing tested.

Here is a look at the top five reasons to get a hearing test.

1. Determine the state of your current hearing

First and foremost, a comprehensive hearing evaluation will determine if hearing loss is present.

During a hearing test, a hearing aid practitioner will perform various tests, including playing tones to determine how well you can hear different sounds. Speech testing will help determine how well you understand speech and at what volumes.

These tests are used to create a profile of your hearing loss. You will understand the types of sounds that are easy to hear and the ones that you likely struggle with.

A complete audiometric evaluation will also help your hearing aid practitioner to figure out the cause of a hearing loss and determine the best course of treatment. The sooner a hearing problem is detected, the better chance you have of finding an appropriate solution and preventing further damage.

2. Get a hearing baseline

The first time you have your hearing tested as an adult will provide your hearing aid practitioner with what is known as a “baseline.”

Even if your tests show that you have little to no significant hearing loss, a baseline is critical for your future hearing health.

Your hearing baseline will not only provide a complete look at your current hearing levels, but it will also serve as a point of reference for future examinations. If – at some point – you do start to struggle with your hearing, your baseline will help determine if you are experiencing hearing loss, when the hearing loss started, and how significant or progressive it is.

A hearing baseline will help identify patterns of hearing loss, which can be used to match your needs to the most effective course of treatment.

3. Understand how hearing loss impacts your life

Since the hearing loss profile is different for every person, the impacts of hearing loss are also different.

Hearing loss can be mild, moderate, moderately severe, severe or profound. You could have severe hearing loss for high-pitched sounds and mild hearing loss for low-pitched sounds – or any other combination.

Individuals with sensorineural hearing loss often report muffled speech, ringing in the ears or difficulty hearing in loud environments. Individuals with conductive hearing loss may report that sounds are muffled or quiet in general.

With unperceived hearing loss, these impacts may not be as noticeable. Individuals may complain that others do not speak clearly or that they can’t tune out background noise.

As part of an audiometric evaluation, a hearing aid practitioner will perform speech testing to understand if and how a hearing loss is impacting the way you hear and comprehend speech. These results will help you better understand your hearing and how it is affecting your daily life.

4. Get information to make an informed decision

If you have hearing loss, then your next steps could involve hearing aids, assistive listening devices, hearing protection or therapy. The good news is that there are lots of options!

Your clinician will develop a personalized treatment plan. Modern hearing technology is wide-ranging and can be adapted to suit any lifestyle, and your treatment plan will depend on the type and degree of hearing loss you are experiencing.

Comprehensive audiological evaluations are an important part of our approach at Discover Hearing because the information allows for more personalized recommendations. The recommendations made by your hearing aid practitioner will depend entirely on the data collected during your hearing test.

The more information we can gather, the easier it is to make a decision for the next steps.

5. Be proactive with your health and well-being

Much like an annual physical exam or trip to the dentist, regular hearing tests are a part of a good health routine.

Unperceived hearing loss can go unnoticed by individuals and their loved ones for years. Even after a deficiency is suspected, individuals afflicted with hearing loss often wait until the damage is severe and the hearing loss is profound before seeking treatment.

Long-term exposure to hearing loss can cause frustration, social anxiety, and isolation. Left untreated, it can lead to an increased risk of depression, dementia, and cognitive decline, and can even be a contributing factor in falling.

Aside from assessing your hearing health, the overall health of your ears will also be examined during an audiometric evaluation. Infections, abnormal growths, and wax buildup can increase your risk for hearing loss.

Early detection is a key factor in treating most medical conditions, and your hearing health is no exception. The sooner your hearing loss can be diagnosed, the sooner we can help you take the necessary steps to manage or treat your condition or prevent further hearing loss.

We want to address any hearing health concerns you may have as soon as possible. Book a hearing test today !

How to visualize hearing loss

info@frontlineconsulting.ca (Peter Quinn) — Mon, 05 Jul 2021 12:00:05 GMT

Audiograms are charts that visualize hearing loss and show why it may be difficult to understand certain sounds

Hearing loss doesn’t mean all sounds are muted or more difficult to hear. Depending on the type and degree of hearing loss you are experiencing, some sounds will be more difficult to hear than others. When the sounds that are important for speech are impacted by a hearing loss, it makes it difficult to understand speech.

Because of these variations in the way hearing loss is experienced , it isn’t simply measured as a percentage of loss – accurately representing hearing loss is much more complex.

Hearing clinicians use audiograms to visualize your hearing. After completing an audiometric evaluation, hearing aid practitioners create an audiogram to show which sounds you can hear well – and which sounds are more challenging.

What is an audiogram

An audiogram provides a method of visualizing your hearing loss and understanding its impact on your daily life.

Audiograms are presented as a graph that shows the range of sounds that humans can hear and compares that with how well you hear each of those sounds in each of your ears.

In this example, both ears have challenges with hearing higher pitched sounds.

Pitch (also called frequency) is measured in Hertz (Hz) and plotted horizontally along the top of the graph. A higher frequency represents a higher pitch.

Volume is measured in decibels (dB) and plotted vertically, with the bottom representing the loudest or most intense level and the top representing the softest or quietest level.

Your hearing levels in each ear are plotted on the graph to show the softest level you can hear at each frequency.

To get an audiogram, you will need to have a full hearing test done. A hearing aid practitioner will conduct pure-tone testing to measure how well you hear different tones at varying volumes and frequencies. They will examine your hearing in various parts of the ear to help pinpoint where your hearing loss may be coming from or the reasons behind your hearing loss.

The audiogram visually charts the results of the various tests completed during your comprehensive hearing evaluation. Your clinician will review the results of these tests, and if it will be helpful, they may share your results with you in the form of an audiogram.

What to learn from an audiogram

The objective of a full hearing test is to measure how well you hear tones and speech. An audiogram shows you the specific types of sounds or frequencies that are difficult for you to hear and those that are easy for you to hear.

It shows any differences between your left and right ears and differences in hearing in various places within each ear. An audiogram also shows the pattern of your hearing loss and how severe it is.

Using all this information can help to explain hearing challenges you may be experiencing in your regular life. It can also show us why it's hard to understand certain sounds.

For example, an audiogram can show your ability to hear speech at varying levels and frequencies as clusters in a particular area of the graph that form a banana-like shape. This is known as the “speech banana.”.

The speech banana represents how well you hear nearly all of the sounds in human verbal language and visually demonstrates which of those sounds are difficult for you to hear.

This can be used to help you understand why you struggle to hear some words or find certain words are difficult to distinguish from one another. It can also tell us why it is harder for you to understand certain people or follow conversations in certain situations.

An audiogram provides a comprehensive picture of your hearing, which helps your hearing aid practitioner determine the best treatment options for you, such as hearing aids . It can also show you how hearing aids might contribute to better hearing.

Visualize your hearing

Book an appointment at Discover Hearing to get a full audiometric evaluation. Your hearing aid practitioner will help you understand your results and outline the best options to improve your hearing.

6 Common Questions about Tinnitus

info@frontlineconsulting.ca (Peter Quinn) — Mon, 21 Jun 2021 23:01:32 GMT

The questions we frequently hear about hearing technology

It is common to have many questions about hearing aids. They are an emerging technology that continues to advance with new features and styles. And selecting the right devices can make an enormous impact on your daily life.

It is also common not to know what are the best questions to ask. Many people look to professionals they can trust to help them navigate the technology.

If you have any questions or just exploring your options, here is a list of the most frequently asked questions about hearing aids. If your questions aren’t included on this list, send us a message and a hearing aid expert will get back to you.

What level of hearing loss requires hearing aids?

There isn’t a specific degree of hearing loss or threshold that requires hearing aids. Hearing is more complex than just how much sound you can hear – it depends on how well you can hear different types of sounds.

A better indicator is looking at the impacts of hearing loss on your daily life. Are you finding it difficult to hear in noisier environments? Do you have to concentrate to follow conversations? Have your family members noticed a change in your hearing?

The need for a hearing aid is best determined by a professional using the results from a hearing test. Book a hearing test to understand the state of your hearing and whether or not you would benefit from hearing aids.

How do hearing aids help?

Hearing aids improve the clarity and strength of sound waves that enter the ear while reducing background noise.

Most hearing aids are now digital and can be customized to your individual hearing loss. Advanced digital hearing aids can also automatically adjust to different environments for more dynamic hearing enhancement.

Hearing aids are not just beneficial to people with profound hearing loss. They can reduce frustration and anxiety for anyone who is coping or just getting by with their current hearing.

What types of hearing aids are available?

Many of today’s hearing aids are considered sleek, compact, and innovative. Hearing aids come in a wide variety of styles , but the two main categories are behind-the-ear (BTE) and in-the-ear (ITE).

BTE hearing aids sit behind the ear with an attachment to an earpiece that fits inside the ear canal. ITE hearing aids are usually custom-fit and available in different skin tones to camouflage with the outer ear. They also come in a variety of sizes and styles.

Both styles have a wide range of amplification, from mild to profound.

A wide range of technology and a host of features are available in each hearing aid style. Modern digital hearing aids are typically offered in a range of technology levels, such as entry, advanced or premium. Within each level, different technology and features are available.

The performance and technology you select should be based on your hearing needs. The style you select will depend on your preference.

Are hearing aids expensive?

The cost of hearing aids varies depending on the technology inside the device. Basic hearing aids are less expensive, but they can be limiting. More advanced hearing aids tend to be more expensive, but that does not mean they are better suited to your needs.

At Discover Hearing, we match you to the best devices for your hearing needs and your budget.

Is there funding available for hearing aids?

There may be funding available to you through one of the following organizations:

Aids to Daily Living (AADL)
Workers Compensation Board (WCB)
Non-Insured Health Benefits (NIHB)
Department of Veterans Affairs (DVA)
Royal Canadian Mounted Police (RCMP)

We will work with you to determine if you are eligible for funding and help you secure it.

How long will my hearing aids last?

On average, a hearing aid will last five to seven years, though some can last up to 10 years.

Hearings aids also come with a one- or two-year warranty. You also might consider upgrading your device around the five-year mark to take advantage of advancements in technology, as hearing aid manufacturers introduce innovative technology every few years.

How long do hearing aid batteries last?

The lifespan of your hearing aid battery will depend on the type of battery and how many hours a day you wear your device. A single battery will typically last 1-3 weeks.

Most hearing aids use zinc-air batteries, which can be found in most pharmacies, grocery stores, and electronics stores.

Some manufacturers are now offering rechargeable hearing aids, which can typically make it through one day with overnight charging.

Do I need to wear hearing aids all the time?

It takes time for your brain to adjust to hearing aids, so it is recommended to wear them regularly. Hearing is important for safety, and regular use of your devices will keep your brain active and healthy.

Using your hearing aids every day will also help establish a routine, so you will be less likely to lose them or leave home without them.

What if I don’t like wearing my hearing aids?

This is normal. It can take time to adjust to hearing aids, which is why our team works closely with you to help you understand the challenges and use your devices effectively.

Hearing aid studies have shown that people who have a positive attitude do better with hearing aids. If you and your loved ones approach your hearing aid fitting with a positive outlook, you will get the most out of your new hearing aids.

How long does it take to get used to hearing aids?

Every individual experience will be different. Hearing aids allow you to hear new sounds, and it may take some time to get used to the noise you were not able to hear before.

Make your hearing aids a part of your daily routine, even if you are staying at home. Consistent use will allow your brain to adjust more quickly to the new information it is receiving from your ears.

Can I adjust my hearing aids myself?

A professional should fit your hearing aids. This includes setting them up for your ears and adjusting them to suit your level of hearing. Just as eyeglasses require varying lens prescriptions, hearing aids need to be personalized.

Once your hearing aids have been optimized to your hearing level, some models do have options to adjust for different environments. We’ll go through the features of your devices and discuss how they can be adjusted on-the-go.

What if I have more questions about hearing aids?

The team at Discover Hearing always takes the time to answers all questions about hearing and technology – even the questions you didn’t even know you have.

If you have a question about hearing aids, send us a message . We are happy to help.

Determining the causes of hearing loss

info@frontlineconsulting.ca (Peter Quinn) — Mon, 08 Feb 2021 22:31:07 GMT

A hearing baseline is a clue in determining the potential causes of hearing loss

Our approach to hearing care at Discover Hearing is centred around providing you answers, even if your questions are difficult to answer.

Three common questions we hear are:

Do I have hearing loss?
What are the causes of my hearing loss?
What should I do about it?

Do I have hearing loss?

The first question is best answered with a hearing test. Hearing loss is relatively normal among adults in Canada (an estimated 8.2 million adults – more than half of the adult population – suffer from hearing loss). We rely on the results from a hearing test to answer this question.

What are the causes?

The causes of hearing loss can be more difficult to determine. Various factors, from your overall health to lifestyle, can contribute to hearing challenges. For many people, their hearing declined slowly over time, so they don’t even realize they have lost any hearing. 77% of Canadian adults with hearing loss don’t realize they lost any hearing.

This unperceived hearing loss can go unnoticed and untreated for years, allowing the condition to diminish further.

What should I do about it?

The answer depends on the first two questions: how severe your hearing loss is and what caused it.

Even though hearing loss is very common, treatment for it is not universal. Each person experiences hearing loss in a unique way, and every case comes with different symptoms and causes.

You can determine if you have hearing loss by booking a hearing test . Understanding the factors contributing to your hearing loss is more difficult, but it is critical to know when deciding the next steps.

Common hearing loss factors

Hearing loss is often caused by a culmination of various factors. At Discover Hearing, we will discuss your health and lifestyle to determine the factors that are likely to contribute.

Health history

Though most commonly associated with aging, hearing loss may also result from other aspects of your overall health.

Medical conditions

Your personal health history provides great insight into your present and future hearing health. This includes family history (individuals who have close relatives with hearing loss are at greater risk for developing their own hearing issues) as well as physical and mental health.

Conditions such as sleep apnea, diabetes and mumps can contribute to hearing loss. Although scientists are not certain how these diseases increase the risk, individuals with diabetes or sleep apnea are more than twice as likely to develop hearing loss.

Medications

Some medications – such as non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, cancer medications and antibiotics – have been linked to the onset of tinnitus.

Mental health

Changes in mental health can be a symptom of hearing loss as well as a potential cause.

Just like how your physical health contributes to the well-being of your hearing system, your mental health also has a role. Disorders such as depression and anxiety can prevent individuals from maintaining a healthy lifestyle and taking care to consider their hearing health.

Noise history

A single occurrence of an extreme noise can damage hearing, but so can exposure to noise at lower levels over a longer period of time. Though most employers take precautions to protect the hearing of their employees, workers who operate equipment such as heavy machinery, woodworking saws and leaf blowers are at risk for developing hearing loss.

Attending loud concerts without hearing protection or listening to loud music at home – especially when this is a regular occurrence – is also a common cause of damage to the inner ears.

Other everyday activities, such as wearing headphones or earbuds or mowing the lawn, can also be damaging to hearing.

Lifestyle and work

Your lifestyle and career choices contribute to all of the above risk factors. If you operate a lawnmower every day at work, you are more likely to develop hearing loss than someone who mows their own lawn once a month.

A poor diet and inactive lifestyle may be a contributing factor to hearing loss. Scientists have discovered a correlation between iron deficiency and hearing loss, and a diet that is high in sugar and carbohydrates can lead to can health conditions (like diabetes) that increase the risk of hearing loss.

Vaping and excessive alcohol consumption have also been found to increase the likelihood of hearing loss.

Conversely, cardio may mitigate the risk of hearing loss. Studies have shown that people who maintain an active lifestyle, with regular cardiovascular exercise, have better overall hearing than their peers.

The more of these risk factors you have, the more likely you will experience hearing loss.

W hy it matters knowing the causes

With so many potential causes of hearing loss, it can be difficult (and sometimes impossible) to determine the reason for your hearing loss. But it is often possible to narrow it down to a few specific factors.

This is crucial in determining the best course of treatment to meet your needs. Deciding on a treatment or technology depends on the type and degree of hearing loss. Modern hearing technology can be adapted to match your lifestyle and the factors that contribute to hearing challenges.

Your hearing loss detectives

Discover Hearing uses the in-depth information gathered from comprehensive testing and our discussions with you to better understand your potential factors of hearing loss.

The Discover Hearing team will work one-on-one with you to understand:

How is hearing loss impacting your life?
What might be contributing to your hearing loss?
What are the best ways to treat or manage your hearing loss?
What should we watch for in the future?

The more we know about your daily life and your history, the better we can understand the problem. And the more tools we have available to find the best solution.

Get a baseline hearing test

One of the best clues to figuring out the causes of hearing loss is comparing your current and previous hearing. You can proactively get a hearing test done to figure out your baseline. Then in the future, this test will give you some numbers to compare.

Even with perfect hearing, a baseline is critical for your future hearing health. Any changes can be better discovered and evaluated once we know the current state of your hearing.

Book a hearing test today .

What is the brain's role in hearing?

info@frontlineconsulting.ca (Peter Quinn) — Thu, 14 Jan 2021 16:35:21 GMT

You don't actually hear with your ears – you hear with your brain.

The role of the brain in hearing is essential, but often overlooked. The ears are home to the smallest bones in the body and can transform noises into sound signals, so it isn’t surprising the focus tends to go to them. Your ears deserve all the credit they get.

But the brain’s role is even more incredible. It transforms signals from the ears into sounds that we recognize and understand – including speech and music. It helps us discern where sounds are coming from and allows us to focus our attention on a specific source amidst a room full of noise.

Most importantly, the brain adapts to the signals it receives. Even if signals are weak or incomplete, the brain is capable of filling in the missing pieces. The brain can also adapt to take advantage of wearing hearing aids.

At Discover Hearing, we allow the important connection between the brain and ears guide our approach to hearing care. Since we hear with our brains, any technology or treatment for hearing loss should be focused on the brain.

We hear with our brains

The focus of hearing care may appear to be on the ears, but it is actually on the brain. Although the ear is the mechanism that detects and transmits the sound information, it is the brain that processes those sounds and gives them meaning.

The ears’ role

Your ears and brain work together to interpret sound. As soundwaves travel into your inner ear, they stimulate microscopic hair cells. These tiny hair cells respond to different sounds based on pitch or frequency. Electric nerve impulses are then sent along the auditory nerve to the brain to be filtered and translated.

Exposure to loud noise, or simply the process of aging, can cause damage to the hair cells in the cochlea. This is a very common cause of hearing loss. The degree of hearing loss and impacted frequencies depend on which hair cells are damaged and the severity of said damage. This will effect how the brain perceives the messages it receives.

The brain’s role

The brain is the organ that is truly responsible for hearing. The auditory cortex is the centre of the brain that recognizes the electric impulses from the ears as meaningful sounds – such as speech or music.

With the help of the auditory cortex, we are capable of recognizing individual sounds and words. It processes the volume of sounds and determines the direction they came from.

Not only does your brain give meaning to sound, but it also acts as a filter to allow you to focus on what you are listening to and ignore unwanted background noise. Even when you’re in a room full of people, you can focus your hearing on the person talking or the television.

Similarly, your brain can amplify the sound of your own voice when you are in a crowded room and reduce your volume when you are speaking in a library.

Other parts of the brain also play a role in how we interpret sound. For example, the thalamus is responsible for processing a sound and determining if it signals the presence of a threat. Sounds like a fire alarm, screaming or a loud bang can trigger an emotional and instinctive response.

The prefrontal cortex relates information from the auditory cortex with data from other areas – such as facial expressions and hand gestures – to add context and provide a deeper comprehension of sound.

Together, your ears and brain can collect, filter and process a myriad of noises into understandable sounds.

Hearing care for your ears and brain

Hearing loss means the brain is receiving incomplete or weak sound signals from your inner ear. When the brain does not receive a complete set of information, it will attempt to fill in the missing information and create meaning.

Because the brain has to work harder to comprehend these weak sound signals, hearing loss can lead to fatigue and exhaustion. Coping with long-term hearing loss can have serious negative impacts on your mental health and can contribute to depression, dementia and feelings of isolation.

Fortunately, the brain is incredible at adapting to the sound signals that it still receives. Good hearing care considers the roles of both the ears and brain to maximize speech understanding through technology.

Technology is half the answer

Better hearing isn't as simple as amplifying sounds. Hearing technology can help manage hearing challenges, but the devices are just half the answer.

The brain can adapt

The brain is incredibly adaptable and can work with the sound signals it is given. Although it takes time for the brain to adjust to changes (such as new hearing aids), there is the potential for new technology to “work better” over time. Proper fitting and use of hearing aids leverages your brain’s amazing gift of adaptability to help you hear better.

If you don’t use it, you lose it

You need to exercise your hearing – if you don’t use it, you lose it. Listening to sounds can contribute to the maintenance of current hearing levels, and hearing technology needs to be used regularly and correctly in order to reap the full benefits of the devices.

Our team understands the role of technology in supporting the work done by your ears and your brain. We will provide hearing aid technology that will reduce the effort of hearing and help your brain to process and understand sound.

What to do if you have hearing aids

If you already have hearing aids, use them consistently. Make your hearing aids a part of your daily routine, even if you are staying at home. Hearing is important for safety, and regular use of your devices will keep your brain active and healthy.

Using your hearing aids every day will also help establish a routine, so you will be less likely to leave home without them.

Talk to Discover Hearing to learn more about how your existing hearing aids can help you exercise your brain and maintain your hearing health. A hearing aid practitioner can help maximize the effectiveness of your hearing technology by ensuring you are using it correctly.

What to do if you don’t have hearing aids

Even with incomplete or weak sound signals, your brain can do an incredible job to process the information and fill in any gaps. The goal of hearing technology is to improve the quality of information your brain receives. This makes it easier to hear the sounds you want to hear and reduces the cognitive load.

Book a hearing test to understand the state of your hearing. From there, our team will discuss the best hearing technology for both your ears and your brain.

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Why Regular Hearing Tests Matter | Discover Hearing St. Albert

Why Regular Hearing Tests Matter

What Happens During a Hearing Test in St. Albert?

How Often Should You Get Tested?

Why Early Detection Makes a Difference for Hearing Loss in St. Albert

Signs You Should Not Wait ﻿

Hearing Loss and Your Overall Health

Protecting the Hearing You Have

Book Your Hearing Assessment in St. Albert

Cerumen Management: What Earwax Does and When Removal Is Necessary

Cerumen Management: What Earwax Does and When Removal Is Necessary

What Is Cerumen?

Cerumen Helps the Ear By:

What Is Cerumen Impaction?

Common Symptoms of Impacted Earwax

How Earwax Buildup Is Assessed

Safe Methods for Removing Earwax

Manual Removal

Microsuction

Irrigation (When Appropriate)

Why Cotton Swabs Often Make the Problem Worse

Schedule an Ear Check at Discover Hearing in St. Albert

How Hearing Loss Affects Brain Health, Memory, and Dementia Risk

How Hearing Loss Affects Brain Health, Memory, and Dementia Risk

Your Brain Needs Sound to Stay Active

Hearing Loss Is Linked to Increased Dementia Risk

Communication Supports Memory and Mental Function

Signs Hearing Loss May Be Affecting Your Brain Health

Hearing Treatment Helps Protect Your Brain ﻿

Protect Your Hearing and Support Your Brain Health

Start The Year Strong: Tune-Ups, Tinnitus Relief, and Custom Protection

Time for a Hearing Aid Service Appointment

Tinnitus Treatment That Actually Helps

How Sound Therapy Provides Relief

What a Tinnitus Assessment Involves

Custom Earplugs for Work and Play

Protection for Loud Workplaces

Musicians Need Different Protection

Winter Sports Require Specialized Plugs

Book Your Hearing Assessment

Take Action in Today

Holiday Parties Without the Guessing: Hearing Strategies That Work

Holiday Parties Without the Guessing: Hearing Strategies That Work

Set Up Your Space Before Guests Arrive

Use Speech Programs In Your Devices

Add Remote Mics And Assistive Accessories

Turn On Live Captions For Group Moments

Prepare For Restaurants And Off Site Events

Hearing Confidence with Discover Hearing

Get Ready To Hear Well This Holiday In St. Albert

Get Ready To Hear Well This Holiday In St. Albert

Why November Is The Right Time For Hearing Prep In St. Albert

Your November Pre-Holiday Hearing Checklist

1. Book Or Update Your Hearing Test In St. Albert

2. Clean And Check Your Hearing Aids

3. Refresh Domes, Filters, And Power Sources

4. Review Warranties, Service Plans, And Benefits

Practical Tips For Hearing In Restaurants And Busy Homes

In Restaurants

At Home

Ready To Hear Well This Holiday Season?

Preparing for the Canada Hearing Aid Tax Credit Change in 2026

Preparing for the Canada Hearing Aid Tax Credit Change in 2026

Current Rules for Hearing Aid Expenses

Anticipated Changes in 2026

How to Prepare Before 2026

Practical Scenarios

Considerations

Back-to-School Noise Exposure: How Children’s Hearing Can Be Impacted

Back-to-School Noise Exposure: How Children’s Hearing Can Be Impacted

Common Sources of School Noise

Early Warning Signs of Hearing Loss in Children

How Hearing Affects Learning

What Parents and Teachers Can Do

Safeguarding Hearing During the School Year

Digital Earwax Tools Can Damage Hearing: What You Need to Know

Digital Earwax Tools Can Damage Hearing: What You Need to Know

Why Earwax Matters

The Rise of Digital Earwax Removers

Signs You Should Not Wait

Hearing Treatment Helps Protect Your Brain

What are Common Signs of Hearing Loss?

2. You’re experiencing balance issues