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Earbud Use Could Harm Your Hearing

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

When we think of the causes of hearing loss, our minds go immediately to very loud sounds. Some of us think of the machinery in industrial sites, while others think of an explosion or a car crash. Still others might think of musicians who are constantly exposed to very loud music in rehearsals or performances. Although these are indeed risky …

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Q&A About Hearing Loss

In Hearing Loss, Informative by Christa N. Smith, Au.D., CCC-A

If you are coming to the realization that you might have hearing loss, you are certainly not alone. Many people are diagnosed with hearing loss every year, and even more have hearing loss that goes undiagnosed. If you have realized—either through a hearing test or your own experience—that you have hearing loss, you are likely to have some associated questions …

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COVID-19 Whisper Hearing Centers Update

In Informative by Christa N. Smith, Au.D., CCC-A

The spread of the Coronavirus (COVID-19) has generated understandable concerns in our community. During these difficult and unprecedented times, Whisper Hearing Centers is committed to keeping our patients, staff and our communities health and well-being of utmost importance. To that end, we have closed our offices temporarily. Please know, though, that we may be available to assist you via phone …

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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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Avoiding Noise-Induced Hearing Loss in the Workplace

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

Noise, or unwanted sound, is one of the most pervasive occupational health problems Americans face today. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), more than 22 million workers are exposed to potentially damaging noise each year. Unfortunately, many people who have been affected by noise-induced hearing loss (NIHL) don’t realize they have a hearing loss until it’s too late. …

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Bluetooth Technology for Hearing Aids

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

Phones, tablets, computers – in today’s world, we are constantly “plugged in.” Hearing aids of the past often limited the wearer’s access to these personal devices. For example, in order to use a music player while exercising, you would have had to remove your hearing aids to accommodate a pair of earbuds. Today, however, Bluetooth technology for hearing aids has …

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How to Help a Loved One Suffering with Tinnitus

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

At its least, tinnitus is annoying. At its worst, it is a debilitating illness. It can make those suffering feel powerless, stressed, and anxious, and it destroy their quality of life. Of course, when we see a loved one suffering with tinnitus, it’s natural to want to help. It’s hard to watch a loved one suffer. It’s difficult to even comprehend, and …

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Hearing Loss and Brain Health

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

It’s no secret that hearing aids can do more than just improve hearing. They can help with balance, anxiety, and general quality of life. However, what many people don’t realize is that there is a connection between hearing loss and brain health – specifically memory – that is becoming more and more apparent over time. How Hearing Loss Affects Memory We …

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How to Maintain Your Hearing Aids

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

There’s no doubt that you benefit greatly from using your hearing aid. Your day-to-day life is easier, you have less anxiety about not being able to hear, and you can enjoy your favorite activities again. Your hearing aid is a delicate device and taking proper care of it now can ensure that these benefits last for years. Here are a few ways …