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We are exposed to sound on a daily basis. Volume levels vary considerably, and can easily exceed 85 decibels (dB) – the threshold that is considered safe. Any prolonged exposure to noise exceeding this is harmful and can cause permanent, irreversible hearing loss. Excess noise exposure isn’t the only cause of hearing damage. Diseases, drugs…

Ringing in the ear, or tinnitus, is a widespread condition that affects an estimated 50 million Americans. Some people describe it as a hissing, roaring, whooshing or buzzing sound instead of ringing. It may be sporadic or constant, and is a symptom of an underlying condition rather than a disease itself. There are many factors…

Dizziness can be described in many ways Unsteady, poor balance Lightheaded Spinning or motion sensation Vague spatial disorientation symptoms Floating sensation Foggy Vertigo is the sensation of motion, but you are not moving. It is a symptom, not a diagnosis. Vertigo is often a spinning type sensation. Associated nausea and vomiting are common. Vertigo causes…

The ear is divided into three parts; the external ear, middle ear and inner ear. Each part performs an important function in hearing and/or maintenance of balance. The inner ear (labyrinth) contains two fluid systems, one suspended inside the other, separated by a thin membrane. This system contains a delicately balanced fluid which bathes nerve…

Hearing loss can occur at any age. However, hearing problems in infants and children can have consequences during these speech and language developmental years. When children cannot hear well, it affects their ability to learn language and produce clear speech because hearing is fundamental to developing language. There are several causes for hearing loss in…

Causes Ear infections occur when fluid fills the space between the eardrum and the inner ear. This happens when the Eustachian tube becomes blocked thanks to a virus or bacterium, preventing mucus and pus from draining out of the middle ear. These fluids put pressure on the eardrum, causing pain and discomfort. Children are especially…

What Are the Most Common Causes of Hearing Loss? A number of factors can cause hearing loss. The most common include aging, noise exposure, ear infections, excessive earwax, ear or head trauma, genetics, birth defects, benign growths or tumors, otosclerosis, Meniere’s disease and reactions to drugs. Noise-Induced Hearing Loss Noise-induced hearing loss is the most…

Hearing aids have improved greatly with the advent of digital technology. If you’re picturing big and bulky devices with questionable sound quality, you’ll be pleased to learn today’s instruments are smaller, more comfortable and provide sound that is more natural. They are available in a variety of sizes and styles, so finding one that appeals…

Sleep apnea is a disorder in which breathing is interrupted periodically throughout the night. These pauses, or gaps, in breathing may be accompanied by choking or gasping but rarely awaken the sleeping individual. An estimated 18 million Americans suffer from sleep apnea, many of them unaware of their condition. What Causes Sleep Apnea? There are…

Snoring is the hoarse or harsh sound that occurs when your breathing is partially obstructed It may indicate a serious health condition Snoring and sleep disordered breathing affect 24% of Male and 9% of Female Adults in the United States 75 Million Americans suffer from some sort of snoring or sleep disordered breathing Common disruptive…