World Hearing Day at CHSC

World Hearing Day, formally known as International Ear Care Day, is celebrated every year on March 3^rd. The World Health Organization started this day in 2007 to promote better hearing health care through themes.  The 2018 theme is “Hear the future” - drawing attention to the anticipated increase in the number of people with hearing loss around the world in the coming decades. It will focus on three strategies (Prevention, Identification, Treatment) to stem the rise and outline steps to ensure access to the necessary rehabilitation services and communication tools and products for people with hearing loss.

At the Cleveland Hearing & Speech Center (CHSC), we also raise awareness and treat hearing loss.  We believe that life is improved by successful communication. We are dedicated to helping people hear better so they can fully enjoy the people and activities that bring meaning to each day.

Prevention

One of the leading causes of hearing loss is Noise-Induced Hearing Loss (NIHL). It can be instantaneous and caused by just a single exposure to a very loud sound, or it can be caused by cumulative exposure to loud sounds over time. Any noise above 90 decibels, such as a lawn mower, becomes extremely dangerous for your hearing.  Even though NIHL is permanent, it is preventable.

Some tips to conserve hearing:

• Lower volume on headphones (music, phone calls, etc.)
• Use noise cancelling headphones
• Limit time of noise exposure
• Avoid or block out loud situations
• Cover your ears or use ear plugs in loud situations

Identification

The signs of hearing loss can be small and occur gradually over time, or early signs of hearing loss can be large and happen suddenly. In whatever way the hearing loss occurs, there are common indications and signs that point it out. If you experience any of the signs below, you should seek treatment.

Signs of hearing loss:

• Hard to understand and hear conversation
• Ask individuals to repeat themselves multiple times
• V. or radio is at a loud volume
• Have ringing in ears
• Family history of hearing loss

Treatment

If you suspect that you have hearing loss, completing a hearing test should be your first option. Audiologists can perform several tests to determine if a hearing loss is present or not. Test results are available immediately and the audiologist will explain the results to the patient and/or the family. If further action needs to be taken for treatment of hearing loss, consider the options below.

Treatments of Hearing Loss:

• Hearing Aids
• Assistive Listening Devices
• Cochlear Implants
• Medical Intervention