Category: Blog

Genesis AI Hearing Aids coming soon to the UK

Starkey is leading the hearing industry in redefining the future of hearing health, not just with incremental improvements, but with breakthrough benefits. The result is Genesis AI, a new, unprecedented experience for both patients and hearing professionals. Completely reimagined from the inside out, it’s the only hearing technology system to feature an all-new processor, all-new sound, all-new industrial design, all-new fitting software, and all-new patient experience.

All-New Processor
The all-new Starkey Neuro Processor features the industry’s most advanced processor technology which mimics the function of the central auditory system through a Deep Neural Network (DNN) on-chip accelerator and automatic functions.

• Smallest processor ever by Starkey, but also the most powerful with 6x more transistors.
• Speed – the Starkey Neuro Processor operates quickly, efficiently, and quietly and is up to 4x faster than previous processors.
• Less power, more processing – the processor is more efficient with power while delivering significantly higher processing.
• Loaded with 5X more computational memory and 10X the amount of non-volatile memory.

All-New Sound
Starkey’s new Neuro Sound Technology provides the best hearing experience for patients in all situations. The additive compression system synthesises the signals from slow and fast compression systems for optimised perceptual outcomes, like the neural fibres that code different information for the brain.

“By spending countless hours with hearing professionals and patients, researching and analysing every element of the hearing journey, we relentlessly pursued how to develop and bring the most advanced hearing technology to professionals and patients in a simple and intuitive way,” said Achin Bhowmik, Ph.D., Chief Technology Officer and Executive Vice President of Engineering at Starkey. “Our all-new, powerful processor was designed to work like the human brain, leveraging the neuroscience of the ear-brain connection and information processing to create better sound quality, pushing energy-efficient artificial intelligence to its limits, analysing and automatically optimising sound over 80 million times an hour. Genesis AI’s improved performance levels are unlike anything else in the industry, while doubling the battery life.”

All-New Design
Genesis AI features an all-new sleek, discreet and stylish aesthetic product design that’s durable and comfortable for all-day wear, and which helps break barriers and reduce the stigma of what is hearing care technology today.

• Genesis AI includes RIC RT, the industry’s longest-lasting RIC rechargeable hearing aid on the market. The battery holds up to 51 hours on a single charge.
• The new mRIC R has the second longest-lasting RIC rechargeable battery life with up to 41 hours on a single charge.
• Industry-first custom rechargeable product has the highest custom battery life in the industry with up to 36 hours on a single charge.

All-New Patient Experience
The new My Starkey App gives patients full control over their hearing aids, plus the ability to get helpful tips, track their health, and access intelligent features designed to simplify their lives.

Starkey leads the hearing industry as it relates to incorporating health and wellness features into hearing aids, including being the first to integrate 3D sensors; the first to enable counting steps; the first to track and encourage social engagement; and the first to provide benefits that went beyond just better hearing. Starkey was also the first hearing manufacturer — and still the only — to make hearing aids that can detect falls and send alerts.

Genesis AI’s improved streaming capabilities utilise binaural phone steaming, sharing information to both ears directly and simultaneously. This supports two-way, hands-free calling through compatible Apple and Android devices and makes it easier for patients to enjoy their favourite music with more natural results.

Genesis AI is now available in the UK.

If you’re interested in finding out when this and all new hearing technology is available in the UK contact us below or call 020 7486 1053.

Genesis AI Hearing Aid Review

Matthew Allsop is a Partner at Harley Street Hearing. He is Hearing Tracker’s worldwide Video Content Manager and gives his honest, independent opinion on all new hearing technology. Hearing Tracker is the world’s first truly-independent resource for hearing aid consumers.

To see Matthew’s review of Starkey’s Genesis AI hearing aids click below:

Harley Street Hearing is the home of independent audiology in London. Established on Harley Street for 25 years.

Evolv AI CIC hearing aids now in the UK…..

Evolv AI is the first 2.4 GHz CIC (completely-in-canal) hearing aid with integrated sensors and artificial intelligence. It’s the World’s smallest 2.4 GHz CIC custom moulded to your unique ear canal. These discreet and powerful devices have water-resistant coating to resist dust, moisture, and humidity ensuring your custom hearing aids last a long time.

With up to 55 million personalised adjustments every hour, Evolv AI is an award-winning hearing aid that is expertly designed to automatically deliver realistic and genuine sound quality in every listening environment, so wearers can hear and enjoy life. Evolv AI is available in all styles, from Behind-The-Ear and Receiver-In-Canal to Completely-In-Canal and Invisible.

Best invisible hearing aid of 2023

Starkey’s Evolv AI has been named the best invisible hearing aid of 2023, according to a recent list by Forbes. The Forbes Health editorial team consulted with audiologists from the Forbes Health Advisory Board to determine the best invisible hearing aids available. Ratings were based on prices, average user ratings and product features that are typically important to hearing aid users. Evolv AI was the only hearing aid to receive a five-star rating, earning the top spot on the list.

“As the industry leader in custom hearing aids, we are committed to excellence when it comes to our Invisible-In-Canal devices,” said Starkey President and CEO Brandon Sawalich. “We know that, far too often, the stigma associated with wearing hearing aids prevents people with hearing loss from getting the help they need. These hearing aids help break down that barrier. While we are proud of what we’ve accomplished so far, the best is yet to come. Exciting things are right around the corner, that will help people hear better, so they can live their best lives.”

Compared to previous technology Evolv AI provides an additional 40% reduction in noise energy designed to reduce listening effort, with better than ever sound.

2-Way Audio – Now, you can take and end calls directly from your hearing aids instead of your Apple device. Plus, hearing aid microphones pick up and stream your voice directly back to iPhone and iPad  allowing you to seamlessly talk hands-free.

Edge Mode –  Hearing better in challenging listening environments is easy with Starkey’s friendly, on-demand Artificial Intelligence feature that works with or without Starkey’s Thrive app.

TeleHear™ – Remote programming offers even more flexibility and fine tuning wherever you are. Discuss with your clinical audiologist and you can easily make adjustments to your Evolv AI hearing aids.

The Starkey Evolv AI CIC hearing aid is currently awaiting a CE rating accreditation. As soon as this is available it will be released in the UK.

If you’re interested in finding out when this and all new hearing technology is available in the UK contact us below or call 020 7486 1053.

Evolv AI CIC hearing aids review

Matthew Allsop is a Partner at Harley Street Hearing. He is Hearing Tracker’s worldwide Video Content Manager and gives his honest, independent opinion on all new hearing technology. Hearing Tracker is the world’s first truly-independent resource for hearing aid consumers. To see Matthew’s review of Starkey’s Evolv AI CIC hearing aids click below:

Are you looking to book a hearing test and are wondering what happens? It’s natural to be curious, and sometimes worried, about how the tests are performed and what exactly is evaluated. 

In this article, we’ve outlined how a hearing test is carried out, how to prepare for a hearing test and what to expect after your test is complete.

What is a hearing test?

A hearing test is a non-invasive procedure that is used to evaluate how the ear is functioning and determine if there are any hearing-related issues or impairments. Hearing tests are carried out by an audiologist who specialises in the diagnosis and management of hearing loss. 

Hearing tests evaluate your ability to hear different frequencies or pitches of sound, your ability to understand speech, and the function of the middle ear and inner ear hair cells.

Our standard hearing test takes approximately 30 minutes from start to finish, including an explanation of your test results. However, if you’re experiencing signs of hearing loss, we suggest an in-depth hearing assessment. Our 90 minute hearing assessments include a personalised lifestyle assessment and independent advice on the most appropriate hearing technology to meet your individual needs.

Harley Street Hearing has over 25 years of clinical experience helping others improve their hearing ability and quality of life. We are independent audiologists and are registered with the Health and Care Professions Council which means you can book with us directly without the need for a referral from your GP or ENT consultant. 

How to prepare for a hearing test

To get the most out of your hearing test and ensure your results are as accurate as possible, there are a number of simple steps you can take prior to the appointment to prepare your ears. 

Clean your ears

Before a hearing test, we always recommend that your ears are clean and free of any earwax or debris that could interfere with the accuracy of the test. If you have any concerns about the cleanliness of your ears, you can book an earwax removal appointment with one of our highly trained clinical audiologists prior to your hearing test.

Check your medications

We also ask that you make a note of which medications you’re taking prior to your appointment. Some medications and conditions can affect your hearing capacity and your clinical audiologist will need to be aware of which medications you take or conditions you have.

Avoid loud noises

Where possible, it is best to avoid loud noises prior to your appointment. Loud noises that result in ringing of the ear can make it harder for you to accurately perform in our hearing tests which can change the outcome of your evaluation.

Rearrange if you’re unwell

It’s never a good idea to attend a hearing test appointment when you’re unwell. This is because illnesses such as colds and sinus infections can affect the way we hear. If you’re feeling under the weather, it’s better to arrange your appointment for when you’re feeling better.

The hearing test process

The hearing test typically consists of several parts, each of which evaluates a different aspect of your ears to fully understand the whole hearing pathway

Physical examination of the ear

The first step of a hearing test involves an examination of the ear using an otoscope. This device allows your clinical audiologist to inspect the ear canal and eardrum for any abnormalities, such as earwax buildup, infections or damage to the eardrum. 

If any issues are found, the audiologist may recommend additional testing or refer you to an ear, nose, and throat (ENT) consultant for further evaluation.

A pure tone audiometry test

Pure tone audiometry is a test that evaluates your ability to hear different frequencies and pitches of sound. During the test, you will be asked to wear headphones and listen to a series of tones at varying frequencies and volumes. 

Your clinical audiologist will ask you to indicate when you hear the sound by pressing a button. This test allows your audiologist to determine the softest sounds that you can hear at each frequency tested.

Other types of hearing tests

These tests are not a part of a standard hearing test and are sometimes requested if you have been referred by an ENT consultant or physician.

Speech audiometry test

Speech audiometry is a test that evaluates your ability to hear and understand speech. In this test, you will be asked to repeat a series of words or sentences that are presented to you at different volumes and in different backgrounds, such as in the presence of noise. 

This test allows your clinical audiologist to determine your ability to understand speech in different listening conditions.

A middle ear assessment

The middle ear assessment is a test that evaluates the function of the middle ear, including the eardrum and the three tiny bones (ossicles) that transmit sound vibrations from the eardrum to the inner ear. 

This test is typically conducted using a tympanometer, which measures the eardrum’s movement in response to changes in air pressure. This test allows your clinical audiologist to detect any problems with the middle ear, such as fluid buildup or a perforated eardrum.

An otoacoustic emissions (OAE) test

Otoacoustic emissions testing is a non-intrusive test that evaluates the function of the hair cells in the inner ear. This test is performed using a small probe that is placed inside the ear canal and a series of sounds are played to the ear. 

If the hair cells in the inner ear are functioning correctly, they will emit a sound in response to the sound stimulus. This allows your clinical audiologist to determine the integrity of the hair cells in the inner ear and detect any damage or dysfunction.

An auditory brainstem response (ABR) test

Auditory brainstem response testing evaluates the function of the auditory nerve and brainstem pathways that transmit sound information to the brain. For this test, electrodes are placed on the scalp and behind the ears, and a series of clicks or tones are presented to the ear. 

The electrodes detect the electrical activity generated by the auditory nerve and brainstem in response to the sound stimulus. This test allows your clinical audiologist to determine if there are any issues with the auditory nerve or brainstem that could be affecting hearing function.

What happens after a hearing test?

After the hearing test is complete, your clinical audiologist will review the results and share them with you. If you opt for a more detailed hearing assessment, your results will be discussed with you and there will be the opportunity to discuss any recommendations or management options that may be necessary. 

If the test indicates that you have hearing loss, your clinical audiologist can recommend hearing aids or other assistive devices to help improve your hearing function. Your clinical audiologist may also provide advice for effective communication strategies and lifestyle modifications that can help improve your quality of life with hearing loss.

How to book a hearing test

To book an appointment for a hearing test or hearing assessment, simply fill in the form below and a member of our staff will be in touch with you. There will be an initial telephone consultation to understand whether you would benefit from either a hearing test or hearing assessment, and then we’ll arrange an appointment for you with one of our audiologists. For any further information or advice, contact us here.

Enjoy this article? You might be interested in some of our others: 

• Signs and symptoms of hearing loss
• The causes of hearing loss and how it can be prevented
• How is hearing loss related to dementia?

Hearing loss is a common problem that affects millions of people around the world. It can be caused by various factors, including ageing, exposure to loud noise, ear infections, genetics, and certain medications. 

The good news is that hearing loss can sometimes be prevented by taking certain measures. In this blog post, we’ll take a closer look at the causes of hearing loss and how to prevent it.

How hearing loss affects the ear

There is no single cause of hearing loss; it can come as a result of various factors that affect the outer, middle, or inner ear. Where your hearing loss occurs determines the type of hearing loss you’re experiencing, the severity and the best method of management.

Outer ear hearing loss

When the outer ear is damaged or blocked, sound waves cannot reach the eardrum effectively, resulting in hearing loss. This can be caused by earwax buildup, ear infection, or damage to the pinna or ear canal. In most cases, ear wax removal, surgery or hearing aids can help restore hearing loss caused by issues in the outer ear.

Middle ear hearing loss

The middle ear includes the eardrum and three small bones that amplify and transmit sound waves to the inner ear. When the middle ear is damaged or obstructed, sound waves cannot be transmitted effectively, leading to a loss of hearing. 

This can be caused by an ear infection, fluid buildup or damage to the eardrum or bones. In some cases, medication or surgery may be needed to treat middle ear problems and restore hearing.

Inner ear hearing loss

The inner ear contains the cochlea, a spiral-shaped organ that converts sound waves into electrical signals that are then sent to the brain. When the hair cells in the cochlea are damaged or destroyed, the electrical signals cannot be transmitted effectively, resulting in hearing loss. 

This can be caused by ageing, exposure to loud noise, certain medications and genetic characteristics. Hearing aids or cochlear implants are often recommended to help people with inner ear hearing loss.

What causes hearing loss?

One of the most common causes of hearing loss is ageing, which leads to a gradual decline in a person’s ability to hear, known as presbycusis. This type of hearing loss affects both ears equally and typically starts around the age of 60. 

As we age, the hair cells in the inner ear that are responsible for detecting sound waves become damaged, leading to reduced sensitivity to high-frequency sounds.

If you’re hearing muffled sounds, a high-pitched ringing in the ear or are finding conversations challenging to keep up with when in noisy environments, you could be experiencing a loss of hearing capacity. 

Book an appointment for a full diagnostic hearing assessment where our expert audiologist will test your hearing capacity and assist you in finding the right solution for better hearing.

Exposure to loud noise is another leading cause of hearing loss, particularly in occupational settings. Prolonged exposure to noise levels above 85 decibels can cause temporary or permanent hearing loss. 

This can be caused by exposure to noise from machinery, power tools, or loud music, and can affect people of all ages. In addition to damaging the hair cells in the inner ear, exposure to loud noise can also damage the auditory nerve, which carries electrical signals from the ear to the brain.

The Control of Noise at Work Regulations 2005 aims to protect workers from excessive noise whilst at work and helps to protect against work-related hearing loss. This regulation requires employers to prevent risk and exposure to excessive noise and provide protective wear where necessary. We offer custom-made hearing protection earplugs to comfortably protect employees hearing whilst working in noisy environments.

Other causes of hearing loss include:

• Ear infections can cause temporary hearing loss if not treated promptly. Chronic ear infections can also lead to permanent hearing loss.
• Some types of hearing loss are caused by genetic factors which can be passed down from parents to their children.
• Certain medications, such as antibiotics, chemotherapy drugs, and some pain relievers, can cause hearing loss as a side effect, known as ototoxicity.
• Chronic illnesses such as diabetes can also lead to a loss of hearing capacity when managed poorly or left untreated.

How to prevent hearing loss

While some causes of hearing loss, such as ageing and genetic factors, are beyond our control, there are several steps we can take to prevent or reduce the risk of hearing loss.

Wear hearing protection when exposed to noise

One of the best ways to safeguard your hearing is to protect your ears from loud noise. This includes avoiding prolonged exposure to noise levels above 85 decibels, which can be harmful to your hearing. 

When you’re exposed to loud noise, such as when attending a concert or working with noisy equipment, it’s important to wear custom earplugs or ear defenders to reduce the risk of long-lasting hearing damage.

Maintain good ear hygiene and care

Incorporating safe ear hygiene into your routine can also help prevent hearing loss. This means avoiding the use of cotton swabs or inserting other objects into your ears, which can damage the delicate skin and push earwax deep into the ear canal. 

Instead, use a damp cloth or tissue to clean the outer ear and let the body naturally expel excess earwax. If your ears are uncomfortable and itchy, and you feel your hearing has decreased, this could be a sign that you need your ears professionally cleaned. 

The safest and most effective way to clean your ears is to book an appointment for ear wax removal. We offer both ear irrigation and microsuction to remove wax buildup, alleviating discomfort and improving your hearing capacity.

Adopt a healthy lifestyle

Finally, adopting a healthy lifestyle can be a key factor in preventing hearing loss. This includes eating a balanced diet that is rich in vitamins and minerals that are important for hearing health, such as zinc, vitamin A, and magnesium. 

Regular exercise is great for improving blood flow to the ears and reducing the risk of hearing loss. Additionally, avoiding smoking and excessive alcohol consumption can help protect your hearing and overall health. Managing chronic illnesses such as diabetes will also help prevent long-term hearing loss.

Book routine hearing assessments

A hugely important step in protecting your hearing and ear health is to book regular hearing screenings. Doing so will allow us to detect hearing loss early on and ensure you’re given prompt treatment and management. 

If you are at risk of hearing loss due to age, noise exposure, or other factors, consider getting your hearing tested regularly by one of our expert audiologists. Routine checkups can help identify any hearing problems early on and allow for early intervention and treatment.

If you’re unsure if you need a hearing test, you can use our free online hearing test which takes as little as 5 minutes, all you need is a stable internet connection and headphones. This will give you an indication of your hearing but does not give an accurate hearing test. If it shows you may have a degree of hearing loss you should book in for a hearing test with an audiologist. 

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Ear health often goes dismissed and unthought of – until you find yourself with intense pressure in the ear, swelling and other uncomfortable symptoms and sensations. This can happen to anyone and is usually caused by poor ear health care.

However, caring for your ear health and hearing can be simplified. Here are our tips for keeping your ears healthy and preventing hearing loss and infection.

Stop using cotton buds

When the inner ear itch occurs, the first thing many of us reach for is a cotton bud even when most of us understand the complications that using cotton buds can cause! Using a cotton bud to clean or itch the inside of the ear can cause damage to the delicate ear canal.

Ears have self-cleaning mechanisms, and using a cotton swab can disrupt the ear’s natural cleaning process and push earwax deep into the ear causing it to compact into a hard, uncomfortable mass. It’s not recommended for any item to be put in your ear because of this.

Not only can ear wax build up cause pressure and discomfort within the ear, it can also cause temporary hearing loss. If you think you’re experiencing a loss of hearing and have itchy ears or pressure within the inner ear, it’s likely time for an ear wax removal.

Next time you experience an ear itch that can’t be ignored, rather than reaching for a cotton bud, make an appointment with your local audiologist for ear wax removal. A much safer and more effective way of cleaning out your ears, removing wax build up and getting rid of that annoying itch. 

Keep your ears dry

Bacteria thrive in warm, damp environments and your ears fit this exact description after baths, showers and swimming sessions. Keen swimmers will know the importance of drying their ears thoroughly when they get wet, as prolonged wetness can lead to an infection called “swimmer’s ear”, otherwise known as otitis externa. 

Otitis externa occurs when water lingers in the outer ear canal for a long period of time, creating the perfect environment for bacteria to grow, leading to painful earaches, swelling and a feeling of pressure within the ear.

After you’ve finished showering, bathing or swimming, always make sure to drain the ear of excess water and dry the outside of the ear thoroughly and gently. The most effective way to drain the ear of excess water is to tilt the head and pull the ear in different directions to encourage the water to leave the ear.

Alternatively, if you’re swimming frequently you may want to consider investing in some swimming plugs. We offer custom-made ear plugs that come in a variety of colours and are made out of a special buoyant material in case they are dropped in the water. Taking an impression of your unique ear shape creates swimming plugs that ensure your comfort and ear health.

Prevent and treat ear infections

Ear infections are uncomfortable and painful and can leave a lasting impact on your overall ear health and hearing ability if left untreated. Thankfully ear infections can be prevented, and should you ever have an ear infection, they can be easily treated. 

The best way to prevent an ear infection is to keep your ears dry after being submerged in water, keep earphones and ear plugs clean and avoid putting foreign objects in the ear canal (such as cotton swabs or fingers).

Ear infection can be located in the ear canal (outer ear infection) or  behind the eardrum (middle ear infection) and the type of ear infection will determine the method of treatment. In adults, if an ear infection doesn’t begin to resolve itself after 3 days, it’s recommended to see your GP. 

The most common treatments for ear infections include:

• Antibiotic eardrops to treat bacterial infections
• Steroid eardrops to reduce swelling
• Antifungal eardrops which treat fungal ear infections
• Oral antibiotics for severe outer ear infections

Wear hearing protection

Hearing protection can protect the ear’s delicate cellular structures and help prevent hearing loss that isn’t related to age or health complications. Being exposed to high levels of noise for a prolonged period of time can cause irreversible damage to the ears, leading to permanent hearing loss.

Those who work in noisy environments, have a hobby that exposes them to high levels of noise or work as a musician or performer can all benefit from using hearing protection or ear plugs. Here at Harley Street Hearing, we produce custom-made ear plugs that provide effective noise isolation, hearing protection and comfort.

The Control of Noise at Work Regulations 2005 aims to protect workers from excessive noise in the workplace by introducing requirements that enforce employers to take action to protect their employees’ hearing. 

We are also the providers of the Musicians’ Hearing Health Scheme, which in partnership with Help Musicians’ UK gives all professional musicians in the UK affordable access to specialist hearing assessments and custom-made hearing protection. 

Our audiologists take a moulding of your unique ear structure to produce high-quality ear plugs that evenly reduce noise whilst maintaining its clarity and can help with hearing your instrument more clearly whilst performing with others. Learn more about our ear plugs for musicians here.

Have routine hearing tests and assessments

If you suspect you’re experiencing a loss of hearing, it’s important to get yourself booked into our hearing clinic for a hearing assessment or hearing test. Hearing loss can be caused by a number of factors ranging from age, physical abnormalities within the ear, exposure to loud noises and ear infections. 

Conductive hearing loss is often caused by an obstruction or a trauma of the outer or middle ear. Sensorineural hearing loss will mean there’s a problem with the tiny hair cells in the inner ear or the auditory nerve which delivers sounds to the brain. And finally, mixed hearing loss is caused by a combination of both conductive and sensorineural hearing loss.

Our expert audiologists can assess your hearing and determine the cause of your hearing loss and work with you to devise the next steps to managing your hearing loss. If your hearing loss is caused by a build-up of ear wax, an ear wax removal appointment is recommended. However, if you’ll more likely benefit from hearing aids we’ll talk you through your options. 

Manage and reduce stress

This can surprise many, but stress can cause severe and irreversible damage to your ear’s health and hearing ability. Managing and reducing stress is certainly easier said than done, but has countless benefits for your overall physical and mental health.

A natural part of the body’s response to stress is to release hormones called cortisol and adrenaline. These hormones temporarily affect your hearing ability which is completely normal and unharmful for short periods of time. However, over prolonged periods, elevated levels of cortisol and adrenaline can damage the delicate cells inside the ear and cause permanent hearing loss. 

The most effective way to manage stress will differ from person to person. Many people find introducing daily exercise, reducing caffeine intake and practising meditation an effective way to manage feelings of stress. If you’re struggling to cope with feelings of anxiety and stress, always talk to your local GP.

Concerns with your ear health?

If you have concerns about your ear health and hearing ability, contact our friendly team to book a hearing assessment, ear wax removal or hearing test. If you’re experiencing hearing loss, we can help you find the root cause and improve your range of hearing.

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• Signs and symptoms of hearing loss
• Microsuction – instant wax removal

Our ears are complex and delicate structures, and we often take our hearing for granted. Hearing loss can be experienced by anyone of any age, from young children to adults and elders.

Although hearing loss isn’t always preventable, there are ways you can care for your ears and general health that can help reduce the risk of hearing loss and slow or stop the deterioration.

What is hearing loss?

Someone experiencing a hearing loss will have a reduced ability to hear sounds that would otherwise be heard normally. The NHS defines hearing loss as the result of sound signals not reaching the brain.

Hearing loss is measured using decibels (dB), and the quietest sounds or the lowest level of decibel you can hear determines whether you are experiencing a mild, moderate, severe or profound hearing loss. According to the British Society of Audiology, the hearing loss ranges are defined as:

• Mild hearing loss is 21-40 dB
• Moderate hearing loss is 41-70 dB
• Severe hearing loss is 71-95 dB
• Profound hearing loss is in excess of 95 dB

By visiting a clinical audiologist they can test your ears and explain your level of hearing loss on an audiogram, known as a Pure Tone Audiogram.

What are the different types of hearing loss?

There are two different types of hearing loss; sensorineural hearing loss and conductive hearing loss. You can also experience hearing loss caused by both sensorineural and conductive hearing loss. Each of these hearing loss types is caused by different factors.

Sensorineural hearing loss results from a problem with the auditory nerve or damage to the sensitive hair cells inside the inner ear. Sensorineural hearing loss occurs naturally as we age or as a result of an injury.

Conductive hearing loss often happens because of trauma or obstruction to the outer or middle ear caused by ear wax build-up, infection or malformation of the ear and ear canal.

Age is recognised to be the biggest reason we experience hearing loss, and on average people begin to experience hearing loss from the age of 40. There are habits you can introduce into your daily routine to protect your hearing and prevent further hearing loss.

How to protect your hearing

Hearing loss isn’t always avoidable, however there are things you can do to protect your hearing and ear health. Although there is no way to cure hearing loss, following our suggested steps can help you prolong your hearing health and become more aware of how to protect your ears.

Reduce your exposure to loud noises

The number one way to protect your ears from hearing loss is to reduce your exposure to loud noises. Loud noises over 70 dB can cause damage to your hearing when exposed for a long period of time, whereas loud noises of 120 dB and above can cause immediate harm to your ears.

Examples of everyday noises and their measured loudness in decibels are:

• Ticking watch is 20 dB
• Normal conversion is 60 dB
• Washing machine is 70 dB
• City traffic inside the car is 85 dB
• Maximum volume on personal listening devices is 110 dB

Being mindful of the volume while watching television and listening to personal music devices can help protect your hearing and reduce your exposure to loud noises. When travelling long distances in a car that is susceptible to road noise, we recommend taking regular breaks and avoiding turning up the radio volume to cover the road noise.

Wear ear protection in noisy environments

To help reduce your exposure to loud noises, we always recommend the use of ear protection. Those who work with heavy, loud machinery are required to wear ear protection as part of their work’s health and safety regulations procedure.

The most common hearing protection equipment options are ear defenders that sit over the ear like headphones or foam earplugs that are inserted into the ear flat and expand outwards to fill the cavity and block excessive noise. Both are effective at protecting the ears from hearing damage caused by prolonged exposure to noise provided the user inserts them correctly.

Wearing earplugs whilst swimming

If you’re a keen swimmer, you’ll likely be no stranger to swimmer’s ear. Swimmer’s ear, otherwise known as otitis externa, is a bacterial infection that occurs when water has lingered in the outer ear for a long period of time. Wearing earplugs whilst swimming can help prevent excess water from entering the ear and help prevent ear infections that follow.

If you find wearing earplugs uncomfortable whilst swimming, make sure to thoroughly clean and dry the ear when you exit the pool. Pulling the ear lobe in different directions and moving the head back and forth can help drain the ear canal of water. Follow up by gently drying the outer ear with a clean towel, but do not insert the towel into the ear.

Custom-made swimming plugs can be made for you to be a perfect fit for your individual ear shape.

Refrain from inserting objects into the ear

We understand the temptation of wanting to stick a cotton bud in your ear to scratch an itch or to clean out a wax-filled ear canal, but this can be extremely damaging to the health of your ears.

Using cotton buds or “ear buds” to clean the ear is counterproductive as it will push ear wax deeper into the ear canal, leading to compaction of the ear wax which can cause pain, discomfort and difficulty hearing.

Rather than sticking foreign objects into your ears such as hairpins, pens and fingers to relieve the ears, consider booking yourself in for ear wax removal.

Treat ear infections promptly

Ear infections can lead to hearing loss when left untreated. In some cases, ear infections may resolve themselves within a matter of days and the pain can be managed with over-the-counter pain relief medication.

Whereas with most ear infections,  you will likely be prescribed antibiotic eardrops, oral antibiotics, steroid eardrops or antifungal eardrops depending on the type of infection and the severity.

If you suspect that you have an ear infection, or notice swelling around the ear, fluid discharging from the ear canal or are experiencing dizziness and hearing loss, seek advice from your GP.

Managing diabetes and general health

Studies have shown that people who live with diabetes are twice as likely to experience hearing loss compared to those who do not have diabetes. This is because high blood sugar levels can damage the delicate blood vessels within the inner ear, and low blood sugar levels can cause damage to the nerves and disrupt how the nerve signals to the brain.

Keeping on top of your blood sugar levels and ensuring they’re as close to your target level as possible will help prevent possible hearing loss associated with diabetes. If you have concerns about diabetes or blood sugar management, contact your GP for advice.

Signs you’re experiencing hearing loss

Unsure if you’re experiencing hearing loss? Hearing loss that happens over time can be hard to recognise, however there are some signs and symptoms of hearing loss you can look out for.

Decreased balance and stability

Have you noticed feelings of dizziness or are you finding yourself unsteady on your feet? This can be a sign of hearing loss. Our ears play a big part in our ability to balance, from our innate understanding of where we are, how to remain upright and how to prevent ourselves from falling over.

If you’re experiencing moments of dizziness or you feel your ability to stay balanced has changed, it’s important to speak to a clinical audiologist who can help perform comprehensive audio vestibular diagnostic tests.

We offer this service via referral at our Balance Centre where our expert clinicians have worked with a range of balance disorders including BPPV, vestibular neuritis/labyrinthitis, vestibular migraine, meniere’s disease, superior semicircular canal dehiscence and central vestibular disorders. Click here to learn more about the service and our Balance Centre.

Turning the volume up higher than usual

It’s easy to miss this sign because it can happen gradually over time, and often people don’t realise how loud their television or radio is until someone else comments on the volume!

One big indicator of decreasing hearing ability is needing to turn up the volume; if this sounds familiar or you’ve noticed you’re unable to hear the television or radio like you used to, be sure to get in touch and book a hearing test.

Difficulty focusing on a conversation in noisy environments

Are you struggling to keep up with the conversation in noisy environments or when there’s background noise? Or are you finding yourself having to ask someone to repeat themselves multiple times before you’re able to hear or understand them? This can also be a sign of hearing loss.

Background noise accompanied by hearing loss can make hearing the finer sounds of speech more challenging, leading to difficulty understanding conversations and needing others to repeat themselves or speak louder and slower. If you’re experiencing this, consider booking a hearing assessment.

Living with hearing loss

Hearing aid technology has become incredibly advanced over the years, and it’s becoming more advanced and useful for those who live with a hearing loss, making it possible to hear those speaking at the side, behind you and in background noise.

Once you’ve been diagnosed with a hearing loss, we work with you to assess which hearing aid would best suit your lifestyle, ear anatomy and level of hearing loss.

We offer many different types of hearing aids, from the classic and easily accessible behind-the-ear (BTE) hearing aid to invisible and discreet options. There is also the only truly invisible hearing aid Lyric, which is worn 24/7 and available on a subscription basis.

Interested in updating your current hearing aids or in need of a hearing test and consultation? Get in touch with our friendly and expert team to book an appointment and find out more.

Enjoy this article? You might be interested in some of our others:

• Hearing loss in later life
• Tips for keeping your ears healthy
• What happens at a hearing test