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Breaking the Silence: Why People Avoid Hearing Tests and the Path to Better Hearing Health

In Expert Information, Hearing Health, Hearing Loss by Christa N. Smith, Au.D., CCC-A

As a dedicated audiologist, I have spent years helping individuals regain their quality of life through better hearing health. Yet, one of the most concerning aspects of my practice is the number of people who avoid getting their hearing tested. Despite significant advancements in hearing loss prevention, diagnosis, and management, the reluctance to address hearing issues remains widespread. In this …

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Ringing in Ears? Tinnitus Causes and Symptoms

In Blog, Expert Information by Christa N. Smith, Au.D., CCC-A

Do you experience ringing in your ears that won’t go away? You’re not alone. The American Tinnitus Association states that 15 percent of Americans experience tinnitus. That means more than 45 million Americans hear an annoying, high-pitch tone like you do. The causes of tinnitus vary, and while there is no cure for the condition, tinnitus treatment and therapies are available to …

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Why Are My Ears Always Ringing?

In Blog, Expert Information, Tinnitus by Christa N. Smith, Au.D., CCC-A

Although an estimated 15 to 20 percent of Americans experience persistent ringing in their ears – called tinnitus – it is still vastly misunderstood. In fact, many people don’t even know it exists! What is tinnitus? Tinnitus is the term for the sensation of hearing a sound in the absence of any external sound. That is, hearing a ringing sound, when there …

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I Have Mild Hearing Loss. Now What?

In Blog, Expert Information, Hearing Loss by Christa N. Smith, Au.D., CCC-A

Having a mild hearing loss may seem, well, mild, but the name is a bit misleading. As a type of hearing loss, it can still impact your lifestyle on a daily basis. Even a mild hearing loss can lead to other medical issues and isn’t something to ignore. While this can create some challenges, it is also something that can …

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The Social Impact of Hearing Loss

In Blog, Expert Information, Hearing Loss by Christa N. Smith, Au.D., CCC-A

For many people, one of the best parts of the holiday season is the opportunity to visit with family and friends. However, for someone with an untreated hearing loss, this may not be easy. People who suffer from untreated hearing loss often find it difficult to participate in social activities, even within their own family. It is a common misconception …

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Unilateral Hearing Loss: Living with Hearing Loss in One Ear

In Blog, Expert Information, Hearing Aids, Informative by Christa N. Smith, Au.D., CCC-A

Having a hearing loss in one ear is more common than people realize. This condition is known as unilateral hearing loss or single-sided deafness (SSD), depending on the severity of hearing loss. While the degree of hearing loss can vary widely, a permanent unilateral hearing loss exists when an individual has a hearing loss across frequencies in only one ear, and …

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Hearing Aid Accessories to Make Your Life Easier

In Blog, Expert Information, Hearing Aids by Christa N. Smith, Au.D., CCC-A

Your hearing aid is designed to make your life easier. From cleaning and maintenance to technology and lifestyle, finding the right hearing aid accessories can make your hearing experience even better. Hearing Aid Cleaning & Maintenance Accessories Regular cleaning, along with routine maintenance from your audiologist will keep your hearing aids working properly for longer. There are a few common tools that …

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When Should I Upgrade My Hearing Aid?

In Blog, Expert Information, Hearing Aids by Christa N. Smith, Au.D., CCC-A

If you’ve had your current hearing aids for several years, it may be time to upgrade. Changes in your hearing or outdated technology may leave you with a hearing experience that is more frustrating than it has to be. If any of the following statements are true for you, it may be time to upgrade your hearing aid. My hearing …

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Can I Wear Hearing Aids During Exercise?

In Blog, Expert Information, Hearing Aids by Christa N. Smith, Au.D., CCC-A

First-time hearing aid wearers are often concerned that their hearing aid will dictate what they can and cannot do. Even seasoned hearing aid wearers still wonder about the impact that their favorite sports and hobbies will have on their hearing aids. Fortunately, most modern hearing aids are much more robust and resistant to dust and moisture than the hearing aids of the …