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It can be easy to take our hearing for granted and overlook our ear health, particularly if we’re not experiencing any concerning symptoms.

Hearing loss can happen so gradually that you might not notice until the symptoms have deteriorated significantly.

Anyone can develop hearing loss at any stage in their life, which is why it’s crucial to undergo regular and routine hearing tests. It’s a common misconception that hearing loss only affects the elderly, but that’s not the case.

Ignoring potential hearing loss can impact our physical health, emotional well-being, and overall quality of life. In this blog, we’ll discuss the key reasons why hearing tests are so important, and what they can help to detect.

Why is a hearing test important?

Many people know they should attend their routine eye tests or annual dental check-ups, and hearing tests shouldn’t be any different. Hearing tests help to keep our ear health in check, and can effectively detect any early signs of hearing loss or any abnormalities in our ears.

Our hearing health impacts us across all areas of our day-to-day life, including:

Safety and awareness

Hearing is our only sense that is constantly active. It allows us to recognise danger, even when we’re asleep. Our ears remain receptive to unusual or important sounds, whether it’s a fire alarm or a crying child, they allow us to react immediately from even the deepest sleep.

Similarly, when we’re awake we’ll usually hear any potential threat before we see it such as oncoming traffic whilst crossing the road. We need good, balanced hearing to be able to detect where sounds like this are coming from and how far away they are, which is just one of the many reasons why we need to take care of our hearing.

Communication

Communication forms the foundation of our social interactions, and the quality of our hearing has a huge part to play in that. Undiagnosed hearing loss can create communication barriers, making it difficult to keep up with conversations and hear what others are saying.

This can lead to misunderstandings, frustration, and social isolation. The more challenging social situations become, the more likely people are to avoid them altogether and start to become reluctant to participate in conversations and social events.

Through routine hearing tests, any hearing loss can be recognised promptly and if needed, hearing aids can be used to enhance communication and restore the ability to socialise without struggling.

Cognitive health and memory

Hearing loss and cognitive decline have long been associated with one another, and reports have shown that unmanaged hearing loss can increase the risk of developing dementia.

Regular hearing tests can help to detect any hearing loss early, and hearing aids can potentially slow down cognitive decline and promote healthy brain function.

Emotional well-being

It goes without saying that we rely on our ears to get us through everyday situations. The sense of hearing helps us to achieve many things that our other senses can’t, and as our hearing diminishes this can have huge consequences on our emotional well-being.

Hearing loss has a major impact on our professional and personal lives, and the effect of untreated hearing loss shouldn’t be underestimated. Once we’re unable to communicate the way we used to or do the things we love, this can lead to feelings of depression and anxiety.

A recent study reported that 65% of people in the UK have never had a routine hearing test. This is a worrying statistic to say the least, and highlights the need for spreading awareness about the importance of hearing health check-ups.

What can a hearing test detect?

Hearing tests are a lot more comprehensive than you may think. Conducted by a professional audiologist, they can detect various aspects of hearing health including:

1. Hearing loss

The primary purpose of a hearing test is to identify the presence and degree of hearing loss. It can determine whether the hearing loss is mild, moderate, severe or profound, and whether it affects one or both ears.

2. Type of hearing loss

There are three main types of hearing loss: conductive, sensorineural, and mixed. The type of hearing loss you are experiencing will dictate the most suitable treatment for you, and a hearing test can effectively identify which one you have.

3. Speech understanding

Some hearing assessments include speech discrimination testing where necessary, which evaluates your ability to understand speech at various volume levels and can determine how well you can comprehend language.

4. Frequency and pitch

If you’re found to have a hearing loss, a hearing test can identify the frequencies and pitches that you might have difficulty hearing in order to tailor your treatment options.

5. Tinnitus evaluation

Tinnitus is the perception of ringing, buzzing or other sounds in the ears, and a hearing test is the first step to understanding why the tinnitus might be present.

6. Middle ear function

Through an examination of the ear and auditory canal, a hearing test can assess the function of the middle ear and identify any abnormalities or issues such as fluid in the ear or problems with the eardrum.

7. Auditory Processing Disorder

Hearing tests can be used to assess the central auditory system’s function, which is responsible for processing sound signals from the ears to the brain. Auditory Processing Disorder can affect how the brain interprets sounds, even when the ears are functioning as they should.

Can a hearing test damage your hearing?

No, a properly conducted hearing test by a trained professional doesn’t pose any risk of damaging your hearing.

Whilst you may have concerns about having to listen to intense, loud or high-pitched sounds, these sounds are delivered at safe levels which are calibrated below the threshold that could potentially damage your hearing.

Of course, it’s essential to choose a reputable and qualified audiologist to conduct your hearing test to ensure best practices that prioritise your safety and well-being. Harley Street Hearing is London’s leading independent hearing clinic and our team of clinical audiologists are dedicated to providing an exceptionally high standard of service.

Our private hearing tests include a thorough hearing assessment and impartial, independent advice on the most suitable treatment for you. Contact us online or call us on 020 7486 1053 to find out more or book an appointment.

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Having trouble with your hearing aids? Whether you’re experiencing more feedback than usual, a drop in sound quality or are simply struggling to adjust to a new device, most hearing aid problems can be fixed at home.

When relying on hearing aids every day to help alleviate the symptoms of hearing loss, we understand how frustrating it is when the device isn’t performing as it should. Fortunately, all it takes is a basic understanding of the common issues that can arise, how to troubleshoot them and what to do to prevent any problems in the future.

The below guide should help you to do all of the above effectively, so you can get your hearing back on track in no time.

Hearing aid feedback and whistling

One of the most common problems encountered by hearing aid wearers is receiving feedback or hearing whistling sounds through the device. This often happens when sound leaks from the device’s receiver and is picked up by the microphone, causing a frustrating feedback loop.

Preventing and troubleshooting hearing aid feedback

Hearing aid feedback can happen for many reasons. Once you identify the root cause of it, you should be able to solve the problem easily. Here are some of the most common causes and what you can do to resolve them.

• Adjust the fit – Surprisingly, ears can actually change shape over time. This can lead to the earmolds becoming loose and not sealing correctly which can cause feedback issues. If this is the case, it’s wise to get your hearing aids re-fitted or replaced.
• Check for ear wax buildup – Excessive ear wax can block the ear canal, stopping sound from travelling through and causing it to bounce back into your hearing aids which can result in a whistling sound. The easiest way to fix this is to book an ear wax removal appointment with a professional audiologist.
• Adjust the volume – Excessive feedback or whistling can be a result of the volume on your device being too high. Try turning the volume down and see if this helps reduce the feedback or whistling.

Hearing aids can be subject to wear and tear over time which can lead to broken tubing, dislodged microphones or loose fittings. Any change to the device’s structure or fitting can lead to feedback issues which your hearing care provider should be able to resolve.

Hearing aid producing weak or distorted sounds

If you find that your hearing aids aren’t loud enough even at the highest volume, or the sound emitting from them seems distorted or muffled, you may just need to carry out some maintenance or adjust the settings.

Troubleshooting checklist

1. Ensure that your hearing aids are fully charged or replace the batteries if your device isn’t rechargeable. Low or weak batteries can cause sound issues, so it’s wise to ensure your device is always charged or carry spare batteries with you.
2. Clean the microphone and receiver openings regularly to remove any accumulated debris. A build-up of dust or dirt can block sound transmission, often resulting in weak or distorted sound. Refer to the manufacturer’s instructions and take great care when cleaning the fittings.
3. Change the wax filter. A blockage of the wax filter can reduce the level of sound reaching your ears.
4. If activated, use the volume and programme buttons on the hearing aid, or linked mobile phone application to adjust the settings. This can help to temporarily resolve the issues until you can arrange an appointment with your audiologist to discuss the issues further.

Hearing aids damaged by water or moisture

As with any electronic device, hearing aids and water don’t get along. Many hearing aids are designed to be water resistant but not waterproof. This means that they’ll typically be unaffected by a splash of water or a drop of rain but submerging them is a no-go.

Accidents do happen, and if you find yourself still wearing your hearing aids after jumping in the shower, you’re not the first person to do so.

Here are the most important steps to take if you get your hearing aid wet:

• Quickly remove the hearing aid from any water or moisture – If you suddenly notice you’re still wearing your hearing aid whilst showering or swimming, or have dropped it in water, remove it immediately and take it to a dry place.
• Turn the device off and remove the batteries – It’s likely that the water may have penetrated inside the device, so where possible, remove the battery and leave the compartment open to dry.
• Dry the device as quickly as possible – Start by soaking up any visible moisture and leave the device in a warm, dry environment. Air drying can take 24 to 48 hours, but investing in a hearing aid dryer is a great option to speed up the process. Alternatively, place the device in a bowl of dried rice to encourage the fast absorption of moisture.

If the above steps don’t bring your hearing aid back to life, get in touch with your hearing care provider as soon as possible for any repairs or replacements that may be needed.

Above all else, it goes without saying that undergoing a thorough hearing consultation and getting your device fitted by a qualified audiologist will stand you in the best position to get the most out of your hearing aid. Following that, undergoing regular maintenance and care procedures will help to prevent any potential issues later down the line.

If you’re really struggling with your hearing aids, it may be that they are no longer suited to your hearing ability. In this case, it’s important to get your hearing re-assessed to find a device that suits your current hearing loss.

Harley Street Hearing is London’s largest independent hearing clinic. Our professional audiologists can conduct a thorough hearing assessment and offer independent advice on the most suitable hearing aid for you. If you need any assistance with your current hearing aids we are more than happy to help. Contact us online or call us on 020 7486 1053 to find out more.

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Gradual hearing loss and cognitive decline are common ageing factors, and studies have shown a strong association between dementia and hearing loss. Research suggests that you can decrease the risk of dementia by seeking hearing treatments as soon as hearing loss is noticed in middle age.

Whilst there is no way to completely avoid the decline in our cognitive abilities or the onset of dementia, there are ways we can slow the process down by having a better understanding of the link between our cognitive functions and hearing loss.

How are hearing loss and dementia linked?

Research has established a link between hearing loss and cognitive decline, including an increased risk of developing dementia. A study in The Lancet said there was an urgent need for more people to use hearing aids in their forties, fifties and sixties.

This landmark study looked at 438,000 people in the UK with an average age of 56 and followed them for 12 years. One in four people reported some level of hearing loss as they grew older; this group was 42% more likely to be diagnosed with dementia.

Another study conducted by the University of Exeter and King’s College London found that hearing aid use was associated with a 36% lower risk of developing dementia. The study analysed data from over 25,000 individuals with hearing loss and found that those who used hearing aids had a lower risk of cognitive decline compared to those who did not use hearing aids.

Previous research has also suggested that hearing loss is linked to 8% of dementia cases, making it a more significant factor than smoking or alcohol consumption.

Whilst it’s understood that both conditions can impact each other, there is no solid evidence of why this link occurs. Researchers have shared several theories on why hearing loss may worsen our cognitive decline, and these theories include:

Brain structure

When the brain lacks stimulation, brain cells can shrink. For those with hearing loss, this can apply to the regions of the brain that struggle to receive and process sounds and can cause the cells to shrink over time.

Cognitive load

When hearing loss is left untreated, it can put the brain under unnecessary strain as it continuously struggles to process sounds. This can lead to the brain becoming overworked and not functioning efficiently.

Social isolation

Unmanaged hearing loss can lead to social isolation as the individual can withdraw from situations where they struggle to participate in conversations. Spending too much time in isolation can therefore lead to the brain not receiving enough stimulation.

Recent studies have concluded that hearing loss and dementia can promote an increase in cognitive decline because it leads to a degeneration of the auditory centres in the brain, due to a lack of auditory input. When this happens, the brain begins to compensate and uses more resources to process auditory information.

Can hearing aids prevent dementia?

There is currently an estimated 900,000 people living with dementia in the UK, and this number is expected to rise sharply in the coming years. However, treating hearing loss through hearing aids and cochlear implants could potentially help prevent tens of thousands of dementia cases.

Hearing aid use has been shown to improve cognitive function and slow cognitive decline as they help to maintain connections between brain cells, therefore preventing the negative effects of hearing loss, such as lack of sensory stimulation and reduced social interaction. 

Tom Dening, a Professor of dementia research at Nottingham University, says that there is mounting evidence that hearing aids can help to fight dementia. He added:

“There has been a lot of interest in hearing conditions and their possible contribution to the risk of developing dementia in recent years, and it is estimated that hearing may account for about 8% of the potentially modified risk of developing dementia. 

As someone who has recently started to use hearing aids, I am greatly encouraged by these findings and, as a clinical researcher, I appreciate having better data on which to base my advice to patients. We need to use studies like this to encourage the public not to be embarrassed by hearing problems and to seek assessment and treatment sooner rather than later.” 

It is thought that the use of hearing aids may help reduce the risk of dementia by improving communication and social interaction, which can help maintain cognitive function. Hearing aids may also help reduce cognitive load by improving auditory processing and reducing the need for individuals to devote cognitive resources to hearing and understanding speech.

However, it’s important to note that while hearing aids may be beneficial in reducing the risk of dementia, they are not a guaranteed prevention method. More research is needed to fully understand the link between hearing aids and dementia, but current evidence suggests that the use of hearing aids may have a positive impact on cognitive function in individuals with hearing loss.

Managing hearing loss and cognitive decline

Hearing loss is a widespread and prevalent condition affecting millions of individuals worldwide. It is not only a communication challenge but it can also have broad implications on your overall health and well-being. 

Additionally, hearing loss can lead to loneliness and social isolation due to reducing social engagement and communication, as well as depression, which are also risk factors for dementia.

It is believed that mild hearing loss can lead to a doubled risk of dementia, moderate hearing loss can lead to a tripled risk of dementia, and severe hearing loss can lead to a quintupled risk of dementia – that’s five times a greater risk of developing a decline in cognitive function.

Sometimes, individuals with dementia mistakenly attribute their hearing loss symptoms to the condition, causing it to go undiagnosed. This confusion can result in untreated hearing loss, which can worsen over time and aggravate dementia symptoms.

If you observe signs of hearing loss or increased cognitive decline in yourself or a loved one, it is crucial to seek professional help promptly. Caring for your ear health extends beyond participating in conversations. Timely treatment of hearing loss is the most effective way to slow down the progression of cognitive decline, and we are here to assist you.

Dementia and auditory training and speech therapy

In addition to hearing aids, auditory training is another intervention that has been shown to improve speech comprehension and cognitive function in individuals with hearing loss. Auditory training can help individuals improve their ability to process speech and other sounds, potentially reducing the cognitive load associated with hearing loss. It typically involves exercises and tasks designed to improve speech comprehension and sound localisation skills.

Speech therapy can also be beneficial for individuals with hearing loss, particularly those with speech discrimination difficulties. Speech therapy can improve speech recognition and language processing in individuals with hearing loss and typically involves exercises and tasks designed to improve speech recognition and language processing skills.

Conclusion

On average people wait 10 years before addressing issues of hearing loss, which in turn could also indicate possible cognitive decline. Fortunately, regular hearing tests and prompt treatment of hearing loss can help to preserve cognitive function, improve your quality of life and decrease the risk of developing dementia later in life.

Harley Street Hearing is a dementia-friendly hearing clinic, we are the largest independent hearing clinic in London. We treat every patient with care and understanding and pay particular attention to their individual hearing needs.

If you feel like you are experiencing hearing difficulties, act now and get in touch to book an appointment on 020 7486 1053 or complete the form below.

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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: