Have The Latest Health Surveillance For Noise Test With Darroch Occupational Audiology

Do you work in constantly noisy conditions? Are you subjected to an equivalent continuous noise level which exceeds 85dB(A)? If that is the case then you are subject to screening audiometry, otherwise known as health surveillance for noise. It is also requited for people that are susceptible to noise levels of 80dB(A). People should be aware that screening audiometry is mandatory and is a requirement of the 2005 Control of Noise Regulations.

The purpose of the audiometry or the health surveillance for noise is to identify the early indication of hearing loss or damage. If that was not all, the process is used to determine if a person’s hearing loss stems from being exposed to loud ambient noise in the workplace.

If any hearing loss or damage has been detected, then you should have the proper remedial follow-up check in the workplace if requited, along with any personal medical referral, if need be.

Screening audiometry allows employers to take the necessary steps to combat hearing loss in the workplace. It can also be an important factor in reducing occupational health compensation claims involving noise-induced hearing loss.

Health surveillance for noise hearing tests will be performed in the workplace. They will be reported in accordance to the HSE categorisation scheme, as laid out in the Control of Noise at Work Regulations 2005.

Darroch Occupational Audiology carries out simple, non-obtrusive hearing tests for our client firms across Scotland. We utilise the most up to date automated, portable audiometric systems with sound excluding headphones. Darroch will help your staff through the hearing test, which may take between fifteen to twenty minutes. You can be assured we will oversee screening audiometry tests to HSE/ Noise at Work Regulation standards.

If you require the most efficient, professionally handled health surveillance for noise hearing tests in your place of employment, then put your trust in Darroch Occupational Audiology.

The Original article Published at Darroch Hearing Blog

The Inspiration Behind The Inspirational Sue Thomas FBI

There is a popular digital TV channel called Drama, so-called because it airs classic television dramas. These range from historical, period programming to well-loved cop shows. The channel is now screening a cult Canadian crime series from the early 2000s about an incredible real-life figure who broke down barriers for disabled people in the workplace. It just so happened that she worked for the biggest law enforcement agency in America. Her name was Sue Thomas and her amazing true story was the inspiration for the hit TV series `Sue Thomas FBI (Eye).

It is a police procedural series about an attractive young deaf woman who, through her exceptional lip-reading skills, is recruited for a crime fighting unit at the Federal Bureau of Investigation. This was why the show had the working title `Lip Service`. In each episode, the team must solve a crime or avert a crisis, with the aid of the amiable Sue and her lovable hearing dog Levi. The stories featured in the show may be fictional but certain characters were based on real people.

The actual Sue Thomas was the first deaf person to work as an undercover FBI agent. She was born in 1950, and became profoundly deaf at eighteen months old, although the cause is not known. However, she was determined from a young age to never let her condition hold her back, and it was a belief she held onto through her life.

Sue Thomas leaned to talk through extensive speech therapy and developed the ability to read lips. After graduating with a degree in Political Science, she heard the FBI were hiring the hard of hearing. She began as a fingerprint examiner before a fellow agent discovered her extraordinary lip-reading abilities. Sue could utilise her skills to identify what suspects were saying. It was especially useful when it wasn’t possible for agents to wear concealed audio equipment like bugs, radiomics orrecording devices. Sue Thomas ended up working for the FBI for four years, from 1979 to 1983.

Her life story was later the inspiration for the hit tv show. It starred the actress Deanne Bray from `Heroes`, who is deaf in real life. She is fluent in American Sign Language and would often teach the cast and crew between takes. Miss Bray also works to improve the lives of the hard of hearing and endorse education for deaf children. She is an inspirational figure in her own right, and an advocate for the deaf and hard of hearing. She is a trail blazer, just like the person she plays in Sue Thomas FBI (Eye).

We at Darroch Hearing are committed to helping the hard of hearing improve their lives. It is achieved through our excellent evaluation and treatment procedures, as well as our exceptional range of hearing aid solutions. If you are suffering from hearing loss, you too could achieve your dreams in life, just like Sue Thomas.

The Original article Published at Darroch Hearing Blog

Find Out Some Facts About Hearing Loss

Do you strain to hear what your friends and family are saying? Do you constantly have to ask them to repeat themselves when they speak to you? Are you struggling to listen to music and must increase the volume when you watch TV? There is a chance you could be suffering from hearing loss and may wish to know a few facts.

Hearing loss is a condition which afflicts around one and six of the UK population. This amounts to approximately ten million people. It is said more than three and a half million of working age suffer from hearing loss. There are thought to be in the region of 800,000 people in Britain who are profoundly or severely deaf.

However, people experience greater hearing loss as they get older. Studies show that there are around six and a half million sufferers of 60 years and over. This is along with the fact one in three of the population over the age of 70 suffer from hearing loss. It has been reported that around two million people in Britain who use hearing aids and devices to help improve their hearing.

Are you having problems with your hearing? Do you feel you require a hearing aid? Look no further. We have an extensive selection of various styles to choose from, to help you find the perfect device. When looking for the finest range of hearing aids available, come to Darroch Hearing.

The Original article Published at Darroch Hearing Blog

Suffering From Ear Impaction? Choose Ear Wax Removal From Darroch Hearing Clinics

Many people in the UK suffer from a buildup of the substance called ear wax, otherwise known as cerumen. It occurs naturally to safeguard a person’s ears and protect hearing. Cerumen is useful for cleaning out the ear canal and generally makes its way out the body. Flaking away when it reaches outside the ear.

However, there are cases where cerumen can amass to excess inside the ear, causing a blockage. This can result in a condition known as ear wax impaction. It can manifest itself in a series of recognizable symptoms. For instance, sufferers may feel as if there ear is packed up and they may experience pain or itching in the ear. Their hearing will be affected and it may progressively deteriorate. People struggling with ear wax impaction may also suffer from tinnitus or a ringing in the ears and may feel dizzy, alongside other symptoms.

If you are concerned you may be suffering from an impacted ear, why not make an appointment with Darroch Hearing Clinics? Paul Darroch, our founder and experienced hearing health care expert, can carry out a free ear examination. We can check for signs of excessive cerumen, through the use of a piece of equipment known as an octoscope.

If it turns out that you are indeed suffering from an impacted ear then ear wax removal may be required. In that case Darroch Hearing Clinics can help you. There are many possible treatments for ear wax, but Paul Darroch generally endorses micro suction. It is a gentle process, carried out with a calibrated suction instrument and a magnifying loupe. We perform micro suction procedures for a very reasonable rate. We charge £45 for one ear or £65 if you need both ears worked on.

Say good bye to the discomfort of ear impaction by choosing ear wax removal from Darroch Hearing Clinics.

How is ear wax impaction diagnosed?

Your hearing health care provider, Paul Darroch can examine your ears with a special instrument called an otoscope, to see if excess ear wax is present.

How is ear wax impaction treated?

Ear wax can be removed in several ways:

·         Using olive oil to soften wax in the ear canal

·         Irrigating the ear — this involves using a machine to rinse out the ear canal with water or saline, generally after the wax has been softened by oil.

·         Removing the wax manually using special instruments — a cerumen spoon, forceps, or suction device.

Ear wax removal using micro-suction is performed with the aid of a magnifying loupe and finely calibrated suction device. Paul Darroch recommends micro-suction and offers the service at all of his clinics.

How can ear wax impaction be prevented?

Do not stick anything into your ears to clean them. Use cotton buds on the outside of the ear and never insert them into the ear canal. If you have a severe enough problem with ear wax that you need to have it removed by a health professional more than once a year, we can advise which method of prevention (if any) may work best for you.

We would advise that commercially available suction devices for home use are not effective for most people and are therefore not recommended.

Ear candles, which are advertised as a natural method to remove ear wax, are not only ineffective but can cause injury to the ear. Injuries can include burns to the external ear and ear canal, and perforation of the eardrum.

Free Ear Check

If you would like us to quickly examine your ears, there is no charge. If ear wax removal is required for blocked ears, micro suction is an affordable, gentle process. £45 one ear; £65 two ears.

The Original article Published at Darroch Hearing Blog

Are You Powered Up?? Choose The Right Hearing Aid Battery

The battery is the life blood of a hearing aid which keeps its engine running. There are many different types of hearing aid batteries on the market. How do you find the right one to meets your needs?

When picking out the ideal battery, be aware that they come in four sizes. They have their own number and are colour coded, so you could identify the specific battery you require without any trouble. You can choose the number 675 battery which is coded blue. The number 13 is orange, 312 batteries are brown and number 10 batteries are yellow.

But how long do they last? There are lots of different variables which determine how long a battery will keep working. They can generally power a hearing aid for between four to fourteen days. However, this may differ, considering the severity of a person’s hearing loss. People need to consider the noise level they may be subjected to and how much work the hearing aid will have to do. Does the customer work in a noisy environment? Does he or she have an active social life and often go out to noisy pubs, clubs or restaurants? There is a great deal to consider.

The ideal hearing aid battery will also depend on the specific make and model of the hearing aid, as well as the size of the battery itself. These may be amongst the numerous parameters used to help people choose a suitable battery.

We at Darroch Hearing will know the correct battery size for your hearing aid. We can take all the stress out of finding a replacement should you require it. You can give us a call, text us or send us an email with your order so you will never run out. We will post out your replacement battery straight to your front door, without any trouble. You need never be deprived of this essential component in improving the lives of sufferers of hearing loss. Darroch Hearing is committed to assisting you in any way we can.

You will have all the power, when you choose the right hearing aid battery.

The Original article Published at Darroch Hearing Blog

World Health Organisation Studies Hearing Loss

Very few people are aware of just by how much the issue of hearing loss is wide spread in our society. This is along with how many individuals around the globe live with this condition on a day to day basis.

Earlier this year, it was reported by the World Health Organisation (WHO) that there were around an estimated 360 million people suffering from disabling hearing loss in the world. This makes up greater than 5% of the global population. It was said that, of that number, 328 million sufferers were adults and 32 million were children. But how is the condition so prevalent? What is the cause?

In certain cases, hearing loss may be attributed to complications during birth or genetic issues. There have been instances of the complaint being brought on by a chronic ear infectionor infectious disease.

However, hearing loss may often be the result of ageing, an accident or, commonly, exposure to loud noise. The World Health Organisation maintain that more than half the cases of childhood hearing loss may be down to preventable, avoidable reasons. Moreover, it is felt around 1.1 billion young people, between the ages of 12 and 35, may be in danger of losing their hearing from the exposure to loud noise. This may be in recreational surroundings, such as music in clubs, discos or concerts, amongst other causes.

It is believed that early detection can be of great help in the management of hearing loss. Sufferers lives can be greatly enhanced through examination and the wearing of hearing aids and other devices.

Darroch Hearing Clinics, through management and evaluation, as well as providing the finest hearing aid solutions, are indeed committed to improving the quality of life for individuals suffering from hearing loss. It has been our goal from the very beginning, and we shall continue in the same tradition. For as long as there is the need, and this condition effects so many people around the world.

The Original article Published at Darroch Hearing Blog

The History Of The Hearing Aid

The hearing aid, in all its various forms, has been helping people suffering from hearing loss down through its history. Ever since its original inception, back in the late 1600`s. The first type of hearing aid was the classic ear trumpet. It was a funnel-shaped or tubular implement, used to gather sound waves which ended up in the ear. They were fashioned from wood, silver, sheet metal and, animal horns and snail shells. Ear trumpets were ideal for enhancing the impact of sound energy to the eardrum.

They were becoming commonly in use by the close of the 1700s. The ear trumpet was first produced by a company in London in 1800. However, by the end of the 1800s, more and more people were using hidden hearing aids.

It was after the development of the telephone, by Scottish inventor Alexander Graham Bell in 1876, that saw the call for a modern hearing aid. It culminated in the creation of the initial electric hearing aid twelve years later, in 1898. When, by utilising the principles of the telephone, they could enhance how acoustic signals were changed and received. Hearing aids could utilise the technology to manage the frequency, distortion and volume of sounds, so they can be picked up by the ear. This was the effect the telephone had on the development of the hearing aid.

The original electric hearing aid was called the Akouphone. It was designed to be a portable device and used a carbon transmitter. The 1920`s saw the launch of the Vactuphone, the inaugural vacuum-tube hearing aid, and in the next decade, hearing aids were becoming increasingly popular to the public.

The Second World War heralded great strides in the evolution of the hearing aid, especially miniaturization. Where devices were becoming more compact and portable. The close of the forties saw the development of transistor hearing aids, to replace vacuum tubes. Eventually, advances in computer science and the microprocessor, as well as high-speed digital-array processors used in minicomputers amongst other elements, helped herald the rise of the digital hearing aid.

We have seen the evolution of hearing devices through history, and Darroch Hearing Clinics has always been on the cutting edge of technology. For the choice of the most up to date hearing devices available, look no further.

Worried about your hearing? Book an appointment with Darroch Hearing Clinics today and we will help you to find the right innovation for you.

The Original article Published at Darroch Hearing Blog

What are you missing out on when you suffer from hearing loss?

It’s that time of year again – graduations, weddings and family reunions. If you aren’t hearing as well as you could be, what are you missing out on?

Different people deal with their hearing loss in different ways; Some people with a hearing loss choose not to attend any large functions due to the embarrassment of not being able to follow a conversation.

Others do attend but sit in a corner and avoid being part of the group.

Does this sound like you? If so you are needlessly missing out on a huge part of your life.

There isn’t any reason you have to miss out on so much. If you can’t hear well there is help.

Finding the right hearing aid for you and your lifestyle can make your whole life easier.

Everything from watching t.v. to attending social functions can become more fun and enjoyable.

And if they are more fun and enjoyable, you will want to do them more often.

That may well be one definition for living life to the fullest.

With so many options in styles and sizes of hearing aids, you can find the right one for you and your situation.

Live your life the way you want to live it. Don’t let a hearing loss hold you back.

Don’t miss out anymore.

Looking for some advice or help? Call me today if you have any questions about your hearing health.I can help!

Call Us Today on 0141 345 2036.

The Original article Published at Darroch Hearing Blog

Learn All About Paul Darroch

Having problems with your hearing? Searching for the best advice and treatment available? You will be under the best of care at Darroch Hearing. Where you can benefit from the vast knowledge and experience of our founder Paul Darroch.

A certified hearing aid audiologist for over two decades. Earning his original qualification in 1996. Paul would become qualified in Physiological Measurement seven years later in 2003. Setting up his present practice twelve months earlier. Darroch Hearing Clinics have been going from strength to strength ever since 2002. Changing the lives of thousands of people suffering from hearing problems. Attended to by one of the foremost names in his field.

Paul is a consultant at various hospitals across Scotland. The Nuffield and Ross Hall Hospitals in Glasgow. The Carolside Medical Centre in Clarkston and the Carrick Glen Hospital in Ayr. All the while following the practices of the Health and Care Professions Council, of which he is a member. Be assured that Paul Darroch offers the leading independent audiological care and rehab available. Providing the finest audial assessment and management advice for adults. Performing a thorough examination if required and helping you choose the ideal hearing aid system to meet your needs. Making him one of the top hearing care clinicians in the country.

That is why so many people experiencing hearing loss come and see Paul Darroch. You are always in safe hands.

The Original article Published at Darroch Hearing Blog

A New Direction For Hearing Protection

It is well known that being subjected to loud noise can affect a person’s hearing. Darroch Hearing Clinics has always been on the forefront of the field of hearing protection. We offer both the leading Active and Passive noise suppression systems Active and Passive noise suppression systems. These include the highest rated custom and filtered ear plugs. Designed to curtail the effects of loud noise and reduce the risks of hearing loss.

Darroch Hearing provide top of the line noise suppression systems to help protect your hearing. Our custom Active products are always on the cutting edge. These, along with our instant fit solutions, utilize the A New Direction For Hearing Protectionlatest high performance digital technology. They are ideal for any customer looking for the leading hearing protection and sound enhancement solutions to meet their individual needs. Moreover, Darroch Hearing is at the centre of assessment and evaluation. We offer the utmost advice and carry out in-depth examination and screening test to check your hearing. Available at no cost.

Darroch Hearing also offers a wide range of Passive noise suppression systems. Where you can choose from our solid or filtered ear plugs, coming in various styles and sizes. Fashioned from different materials. Our filtered noise plugs contain a sound bore, in which we could fit the right filter to suit your requirements.

Darroch Hearing Clinics offer the latest custom-made ear pieces, ear plugs for musicians and noise plugs for motorcyclists among other items. For a vast selection of the finest hearing protection products available, look no further than Darroch Hearing. The first name in preventing hearing loss.

The Original article Published at Darroch Hearing Blog.

3 Ways To Help A Loved One Who Has A Hearing Loss

It’s not uncommon for someone with a hearing loss to be in denial. Many times they either don’t acknowledge their own hearing loss or they simply don’t realize it.

It’s not unusual for family and friends to notice a hearing loss first.

It’s not always easy to be the one to point out a hearing loss to a loved one but if you can muster up the courage, you will be doing them a favor in the long run.

If you find yourself in this situation and you’re trying to find the right way to point out a hearing loss to your loved one, these tips may help:

1. Since many people don’t want to acknowledge their hearing loss due to the fear of “looking old” with a hearing aid, it may lessen their fears somewhat if they understand just how small some new hearing aids can be. Today there are hearing aids that are virtually invisible.

By explaining that there are many options in hearing aids your loved one may not be quite so reluctant to acknowledge their hearing loss.

2. When it comes time for “the conversation” try to find a time when the two of you are calm and relaxed. While you might be frustrated with having to continually repeat yourself or have to endure painfully loud t.v. viewing, it’s important that you put that aside when talking with your loved one to avoid confrontation.

3. Try to be a helping hand during the whole process. Your loved one will likely be a little nervous but having your support will help. And don’t forget, I am always here to help with the whole process, from start to finish.

Your loved one is missing out by not being able to hear well. It’s really a shame and they shouldn’t let fear stop them from getting the help they need to live life more fully.

Remind them that they don’t hesitate to get glasses to see better, why be reluctant to address a hearing loss?

If I can help with any aspect of the conversation, please let me know and I’ll be happy to help!

Looking for some advice or help? Call me today if you have any questions about your hearing health.I can help!

Call Us Today on 0141 345 2036.

The Original article Published at Darroch Hearing Blog

Types of Hearing Aids

When it comes to choosing a hearing aid, there are a few things that you need to take into consideration. The first, of course, is the severity of your hearing loss. The next is the design and style of the hearing aid, and then you need to choose whether you want an analogue or digital hearing aid.

It may seem overwhelming, but when you speak to your Darroch Hearing audiologist, he or she will be able to give you sound advice and guidance as which will suit not only your ears but also your pocket:

1. Analogue hearing aids process sound by amplifying electronic signals whereas digital hearing aids use small computer chips to process sounds.

2. The first type of hearing aid that you get is the traditional ‘behind the ear’(BTE) design. This consists of a housing that sits behind the ear with an amplifying tube running across the front of the ear to the receiver seated inside the ear.

3. The ‘receiver in the ear’(RITE) design is smaller than the BTE and easier to manage. More of its parts are situated inside the ear.

4. ‘In theear’ (ITE) hearing aids fit completely in the ear and are less visible than the BTE and RITE. Unfortunately, these tend to need more maintenance than other hearing aids.

5. ‘Completely inthe canal’(CIC) hearing aids are also situated entirely in the ear, but are smaller than the ITE. These are not suitable for those who have severe hearing loss or even if you get ear infections regularly.

The choice is yours,but we will gladly help you make the best-informed decision for your hearing loss as well as cosmetic needs. Just talk to your audiologist when you come in for your check-up.

The Original article Published at Darroch Hearing Blog

What Causes Tinnitus?

Tinnitus affects about 1 in 10 people around the world and presents as a ‘ringing in the ears’, hissing, clicking, or whistling sounds in the ear. Sometimes there is the sound of a heartbeat in the ear, which is cause for concern as it could mean that there is a growth or tumour in the ear that needs immediate medical attention.

Although anybody can develop tinnitus, there are certain factors that can cause tinnitus. These include:

1. Excessive or sustained noise levels
2. Certain medications and antibiotics could cause tinnitus
3. Head and neck injuries
4. Ear infections
5. A foreign object, or earwax touching the eardrum
6. Eustachian tube (middle ear) problems
7. Temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disorders
8. Stiffening of the middle ear bones
9. Traumatic brain injury
10. Cardiovascular diseases
11. Diabetes

What are the Risk Factors?

There are several risk factors for contracting tinnitus. These include:

1. Noise exposure from work, headphones, concerts, explosives
2. Smoking
3. Gender – men are affected more than women
4. Hearing loss
5. Age – older individuals have a higher likelihood of developing tinnitus.

What are the Symptoms of Tinnitus?

The most common symptom of tinnitus is that you ‘hear’ a sound on the inside of your ear. It is not a sound that comes from outside your body – it is generated inside your ear. The sound can be either loud or soft, continuous or intermittent, in just one ear or both ears, and be either a low- or a high-pitched sound or squeal. Very often,tinnitus is accompanied by a certain amount of hearing loss. Usually it is most notable during the night or when you are surrounded by quiet.

What Do I Do If I Have Tinnitus?

Although there is no cure for tinnitus, there are several ways that it can be managed. Speak to Darroch Hearing today about your options as soon as you start experiencing the symptoms.

The Original article Published at Darroch Hearing Blog

Should the NHS Do More to Address Hearing Loss?

When NHS England launched its Action Plan on Hearing Loss in 2015, the primary goal was to improve services designed to address hearing loss and its consequences among patients. The Action Plan has done well thus far, but some say more can be done. Action on Hearing Loss chief executive Paul Breckell is among them.

Breckell has publicly stated that his organisation hopes the Action Plan will eventually include more strategies designed to encourage people to address hearing loss as soon as possible, rather than waiting the roughly ten years it now takes for the average person to start looking for help.

The call for the NHS to do more is a direct result of the recent release of World Health Organisation (WHO) data in advance of World Hearing Day. According to the WHO, the global cost of hearing loss is upwards of £750 billion annually. Here in the UK, it is estimated that just diminished access to employment alone affects our economy to the tune of some £25 billion every year.

How We Can Help

Should the NHS do more to address hearing loss? That’s for the charities, think tanks and politicians to decide. In the meantime, we are here to help those who are ready to address their hearing loss. We offer free hearing tests along with earwax removal, tinnitus therapy, occupational audiometry, digital hearing aids, and more.

If you are suffering from any form of hearing loss, do not hesitate to give us a call or stop in for a visit. We want to help you hear better. As the Action on Hearing Loss charity says, don’t wait years to address your hearing loss. The sooner to take action, the more we can do to help you.

The Original article Published at Darroch Hearing Blog

Hidden Hearing Loss: The Unexpected Threat

Are you leaning into a conversation and asking people to repeat what they said when you are in a noisy setting? Do you have a constant ringing in your ears? If so, you may have hidden hearing loss.

This is the news from Harvard researcher M. Charles Liberman. He conducted extensive studies with animals and found that over time when exposed to loud noises, it is possible to lose the ability to hear in noisy environments even though audiogram test normal.

This is due to the hair cells in your ear that transmit the sounds to the brain losing many of their synapses when exposed to loud noises such as rock concerts, lawn mowers, power tools, etc. Although you can lose more than half of these synapses without it affecting a hearing test, you will notice the difference when trying to listen to a conversation in a noisy place.

Liberman’s research included a group of 34 college students aged 18 to 41. He classified them according to their exposure to loud noises. The study showed that the high-risk group (those exposed to loud noises on a regular basis) had difficulty understanding speech in a noisy situation, and they also performed worse on the laboratory tests.

Also Checkout: Hearing Aids & Repairs Clinic Glasgow

The good news, however, is that Liberman is also working on a drug that will help regrow the synapses that are lost as a result of noise. It is still far from completed research, but it gives people with hidden hearing loss cause for hope.

As a precaution, Liberman now also wears earplugs when he is mowing the lawn as he has noticed that his hearing is also deteriorating. His studies are far from complete, and the human testing needs to be repeated and expanded, but the message is loud (pardon the pun) and clear: stay away from loud noises.

The Original article Published at Darroch Hearing Blog

Common Reasons People Stop Wearing Their Hearing Aids

At Darroch Hearing Clinics, our main goal is to help people suffering from hearing loss and tinnitus enjoy better quality of life through digital hearing aids. We are sometimes disappointed to work with a patient to find the perfect hearing aid solution only to discover that the patient is no longer using his or her hearing aids after some time.

There are some very common reasons individuals stop wearing their hearing aids. We can certainly understand all of them, but we also want our readers to know that there are solutions. If you have stopped wearing yours, do any the following reasons apply to you?

Hearing Aids Are Uncomfortable

A lack of comfort is one of the leading reasons for people no longer wearing their hearing aids. Fortunately, this is a problem that can usually be addressed through refitting. If we cannot remove all the discomfort through a refit, we should be able to eliminate most of it.

Hearing Aids Do Not Meet Expectations

From time to time, a patient receives new digital hearing aids only to be disappointed by their performance. This is something we might be able to address with a few adjustments here and there. We urge patients to at least give us a chance to improve hearing aid performance before taking them off for good.

Hearing Aids Are Embarrassing

Many patients find that they are embarrassed by their hearing aids. Unfortunately, there is nothing we can do to address this problem. Hearing loss is what it is.

We understand that hearing loss is not the most pleasant thing to deal with. But digital hearing aids can improve quality of life if they fit well and are used properly. Will you allow us to try to help if you’ve decided to stop wearing yours?

The Original article Published at Darroch Hearing Blog

Hearing Loss Doesn’t Have to Slow You Down

Hearing loss can be problematic in a number of ways. Not being able to hear shuts you out of conversations, makes it difficult to watch the telly, and can sometimes lead to social isolation. But we want you to know that things do not have to be this way. Hearing loss does not have to slow you down, as evidenced by the many people we help every day.

Need further proof? Then consider the example of an 80-year-old man from Plymouth considered to be Britain’s oldest disc jockey. Don Barker plays regular gigs in and around Plymouth to throngs of party goers and a group of about 30 fans who follow him to his shows. Don has age-related hearing loss, but that hasn’t slowed him down. He just uses a hearing aid.

Music has pretty much been Barker’s life since he left the Royal Navy to begin DJ work in 1977. Though he is known to play a variety of music as needs dictate, he focuses mainly on disco. Why? Because disco is something people can dance to. And for Barker, that’s what it’s all about. It is thrilling for him to spin his records and encourage people to get up off their bums and start jiving.

We understand that suffering from hearing loss can be a difficult thing. We know that people with normal hearing do not necessarily understand what it’s like to not be able to hear. But we also know that modern hearing aids can do wonderful things. Hearing loss does not have to slow you down; just ask Don Barker. You can still get out there and enjoy life to the fullest even if you don’t hear as well as you did when you were 20. And of course, disco is always on the table.

The Original article Published at Darroch Hearing Blog

The Difference Between a Hearing Aid and a Cochlear Implant

Scientific advancements now make it possible to address all sorts of hearing problems using everything from hearing aids to cochlear implants. What should be made clear is that solutions are applied based on patient need. Along those same lines, a cochlear implant is a unique device that can only be used to address certain kinds of hearing loss. To say that a cochlear implant is not the same thing as a hearing aid is to state the obvious.

A hearing aid is essentially an amplifier. It cannot restore the physical function of the ear to what it was at birth, but it can make hearing sounds easier by amplifying them in the right way. Hearing aids are considered external appliances even though you can buy models that fit completely in the ear canal.

A cochlear implant is used to address profound hearing loss resulting from the basic mechanisms of the ear no longer working. It involves implanting a device in the head – under the skin – that will stimulate the nerves responsible for carrying signals from the ear to the brain. An external piece ‘connects’ with the implant via magnets. The cochlear implant sends signals to the brain that mimic sound without actually producing them.

As you can see, the hearing aid is an amplifier while the cochlear implant is a sound simulator. Both can be used to address different kinds of hearing loss in patients of all ages. If you have any questions about your own hearing loss, don’t hesitate to get in touch with us. We are here to help restore your hearing as best we can.

The Original article Published at Darroch Hearing Blog

The Hidden Issues of Hearing Loss

To people who have never experienced any form of hearing loss, losing one’s hearing may not seem like that big a deal. After all, you can always turn up the television and speak a little louder, right? Actually, there’s more to it than that. There are a number of hidden issues relating to hearing loss. These hidden issues are things others cannot see.

Not being able to hear properly automatically puts one at a disadvantage. It’s simple to understand if you think about it. People without hearing loss don’t tend to think about others with hearing problems because it is not something that crosses their mind. As a result, they don’t consider how their actions might impact others with hearing loss.

Hearing loss can lead to things such as:

Social Isolation – People with hearing loss can get frustrated in social situations to the point that they stop engaging with others. It’s not unusual for isolation to set in as a result.

Stress and Anxiety – When hearing loss is accompanied by tinnitus (which is actually quite common), the result can be stress and anxiety. Having to listen to constant ringing in the ear can be more than some people can handle.

Broken Relationships – Though it is sad to see, there are times when hearing loss drives a wedge between people to the extent that the relationships are broken.

We do what we do at Darroch Hearing Clinics because we know how serious the hidden issues of hearing loss can be. We are here to help you if we can. Please contact us to book your free hearing test or to learn more about our full range of hearing aids and related services. We may be able to improve your hearing.

The Original article Published at Darroch Hearing Blog

3 Things that Cause Hearing Aids to Whistle

We see a lot of different hearing aid problems here in our clinic. One of them is whistling. Yes, hearing aids can generate a whistling noise that not only reduces their effectiveness but also makes wearing them rather annoying. If you’ve noticed your hearing aid whistling, stop in and see us. We can probably take care of the problem without expensive repairs being necessary.

The three most common causes of whistling hearing aids are:

1. Improper Fit

In order for hearing aids to work as they should, they need to fit snugly into the ear canal so that no sound can escape. An improper fit that allows escaping sound causes feedback that the hearer recognises as whistling. It’s a lot like a microphone feeding back if it’s too close to a speaker. Improper fit can be addressed through modifying the moulding or showing you a better way to insert the hearing aid.

2. Damaged Tubing

The tubing on your hearing aid is that which carries sound from the speaker into your ear canal. Therefore, if the tubing is damaged, it creates the same kind of problem you would experience if the earpiece doesn’t fit properly. Sound escapes and causes feedback. The thing to understand about tubing is that it wears out and breaks down over time. The average hearing aid needs to be re-tubed every 4 to 6 months.

3. Excess Earwax

The third cause of a whistling hearing aid actually has nothing to do with a hearing aid itself. It is the result of excess wax build-up that doesn’t allow the hearing aid to fit properly. The simple solution is to remove the wax from the ear. Most hearing aid wearers need this simple procedure from time to time.

The Original article Published at Darroch Hearing Blog

How Can a Hearing Aid Help with Tinnitus?

In our last blog post, we discussed three things you might not know about tinnitus. Among them is the fact that there are two different kinds of tinnitus, the most common being subjective tinnitus. In this post, we want to discuss how hearing aids can help people suffering from this form of the condition. Keep in mind that subjective tinnitus is almost always linked to hearing loss.

When a person begins to lose some of his or her hearing, whether that is due to age, illness or some sort of injury, the result is less auditory stimulation from external noises. Think of it in terms of standing under a tree during a rainstorm. The train does not prevent all the precipitation from getting through, but it does prevent some of it. Hearing loss results in fewer external sounds making it to the auditory portion of the central nervous system.

Tinnitus is caused by the brain trying to make up for the loss of those external sounds. The brain processes the limited frequencies it is exposed to in different ways, resulting in tinnitus. People with tinnitus related to hearing loss are often suffering from a loss of higher frequency recognition. Thus, tinnitusis often described as a high-pitched ringing in the ears.

With all of that said, let’s talk about how a hearing aid can help. Hearing aids can amplify certain frequencies depending on the needs of the patient. Digital hearing aids are especially adept at this. By amplifying the frequencies that are not heard as well, a hearing aid can make up for the loss of natural sound. This can prevent some of the frequency modification happening in the brain. A hearing aid can also provide enough amplification to mask the tinnitus.

The Original article Published at Darroch Hearing Blog

3 Things You Might Not Know about Tinnitus

Tinnitus is a condition affecting tens of millions of people around the world. Also known as ringing in the ears, tinnitus can range from being mildly annoying to completely debilitating. It all depends on how the individual deals with the distraction tinnitus is known to cause.

Here at Darroch, there are several different methodologies we can use to approach the issue of tinnitus. There are also a number of studies currently underway with the hope of finding a pharmaceutical treatment to alleviate the condition. In the meantime, here are three things you might not know about tinnitus:

1. The Causes of Tinnitus Are Many

Tinnitus is a symptom of an underlying health issue in most cases. Tinnitus can be caused by obstructions in the middle ear, head and neck trauma, sinus pressure, and other conditions. It is most commonly caused by noise or age-related hearing loss.

2. There Are Two Kinds of Tinnitus

There are two types of tinnitus, the first being subjective tinnitus. This first variety comprises just about 99% of the known cases. With subjective tinnitus, there is no sound recognised by anyone other than the sufferer. Objective tinnitus, which accounts for 1% of the world’s cases, does involve a sound that is audible to both the sufferer and others around him or her.

3. There Are Ways to Measure Tinnitus

Though 99% of all tinnitus cases are subjective in nature, there are still ways to evaluate the characteristics of tinnitus and how these impact the individual sufferer. We do it through things such as speech recognition tests, acoustic reflex testing, and pure tone audio testing.

If you’re suffering from tinnitus, we urge you to contact Darroch right away. We might be able to help alleviate your discomfort significantly.

The Original article Published at Darroch Hearing Blog

Your Hearing Is More Delicate Than You Know

Some of our blog readers are people investigating digital hearing aids for older loved ones. It is that group of individuals we want to address in this post by stating the following: your hearing is more delicate than you know. So many things can affect hearing over a person’s lifetime that it’s difficult to pinpoint exactly why certain individuals suffer hearing loss while others do not.

As one example, did you know that a recent study reported by the Daily Mail and echoed by the NHS indicates that long-term use of certain over-the-counter painkillers can contribute to hearing loss in women? Indeed, the study found a link between long-term use of paracetamol or ibuprofen and hearing loss.

Researchers discovered that women who used NSAIDs at least twice per week for 12 months or longer had a higher risk of hearing loss compared to those who didn’t use the painkillers quite as often. Furthermore, the risk of hearing loss increased with the length of time subjects used the drugs.

What is not clear is the cause-and-effect. One possible explanation is that certain NSAID drugs can damage multiple components of the ear including its protective layer and the tiny hairs that vibrate when sound waves are present. Researchers also say that NSAIDs can reduce blood flow to the ears.

The NHS recommends checking with your GP for other options if you find yourself taking over-the-counter painkillers, like ibuprofen, on a regular basis. If there are other ways to treat your pain, you may be able to reduce your risk of developing hearing loss in the future.

Darroch offers free hearing tests if you’re concerned about your hearing right now. If you are suffering hearing loss, you may benefit from a digital hearing aid.

The Original article Published at Darroch Hearing Clinics Blog

Understanding the 3 Kinds of Hearing Loss

Darroch Hearing is thrilled to be able to offer the latest in digital hearing aids for improved hearing. Our recommendations for individual patients really depends on the type of hearing loss they are suffering from. No, not all hearing loss is the same.

There are three distinct types of hearing loss. These are as follows:

Conductive Hearing Loss

Conductive hearing loss is the most common of the three, so named due to an inability among the ear’s ‘mechanical components’ to properly conduct sound waves to the central nervous system. This kind of hearing loss can be caused by anything from a blockage in the ear canal to some sort of physical disorder that renders certain parts of the inner ear less effective than they otherwise would be. Conductive hearing loss can be addressed by increasing the power of sound waves to the point that they overcome the conductive impediment.

Sensorineural Hearing Loss

This kind of hearing loss is caused either by a problem with the nerves in the inner ear or the ability of the central nervous system to process the electrical impulses it receives. People suffering from this sort of hearing loss will have difficulty hearing in terms of volume, but their nervous systems may also distort the sounds they do here. Thankfully, this form of hearing loss is not as common as conductive hearing loss. It is a bit more difficult to treat.

Mixed Hearing Loss

Lastly, mixed hearing loss combines both conductive and sensorineural hearing loss at the same time. The conductive component can be addressed medically while the sensorineural may or may not be treatable.

If you are concerned about hearing loss, contact Darroch Hearing right away. We may be able to treat your condition with a state-of-the-art, digital hearing aid.

The Original article Published at Darroch Hearing Clinics Blog

Researchers to Look at TV Volume Levels and Hearing Aids

Are you planning to watch the Queen’s Christmas Message on television this year? If so, will you be watching it with the knowledge that your hearing loss will require you to use hearing aids during the broadcast? Rest assured that you are not alone. Many people with hearing loss use hearing aids to help them when watching television. Unfortunately, this can lead to arguments about television volume levels when other family members are present.

The conflicts caused by TV volume levels is something the University of Nottingham’s Biomedical Research Unit has decided to tackle with new research. Professor and unit director Deb Hall says the research is necessary because of how common complaints are among households with hearing-impaired individuals who need to have the volume of the TV louder than other family members in order to hear it. In essence, what is loud enough for the hearing-impaired person is often too loud for others with no hearing issues.

The goal of the university’s research is to find a comfortable compromise that will make both impaired and non-impaired family members happy. Researchers will be working with as many as 50 volunteers who will take part in specialised tests in a controlled laboratory setting. They will measure comfortable listening levels, then follow up with hearing tests and a series of questions to gauge test subject impressions. People unable to travel to the testing site can still participate by taking an online survey.

Here’s hoping the researchers succeed in their goal. It would be nice if we could recommend a general volume level that would make watching TV enjoyable for both our patients and their families. It would certainly make the Queen’s annual Christmas Message more enjoyable for more people.

The Original article Published at Darroch Hearing Clinics Blog

Hearing Aid Damage: The 4 Most Common Causes

Darroch Hearing Clinics offer hearing aid repairs whether you have purchased your devices from us or not. You can drop off your hearing aids at one of our clinics or send them to us via post. We are more than happy to arrange for repairs on nearly all brands of hearing aids.
Over the years, we have seen just about everything. From time to time we run across a hearing aid that is not repairable, but most of the time repairs are possible. For your general knowledge, the four most common causes of hearing aid damage are:

• Excessive Build-Up of Earwax – Earwax doesn’t generally cause irreparable damage to a hearing aid, but it can significantly reduce performance. A good cleaning is usually all it takes to rectify the issue.

• Temperature Exposure – Digital hearing aids are sensitive to temperature extremes due to the electronic components inside. If a hearing aid is exposed to extreme cold or heat for a prolonged period, internal electronics can be damaged.

• Exposure to Moisture – Hearing aids can be damaged by excessive exposure to moisture. More often than not, permanent damage of this type is the result of being out in a soaking rain or forgetting to take hearing aids out before bathing or swimming. Damage caused by perspiration and humidity can usually be fixed.

• Physical Damage – Physical damage includes things such as dropping a hearing aid from a standing position. If a hearing aid suffers impact damage, it’s usually a matter of one of the electronic components needing replacement.

If your hearing aids are not working properly, just let us know. We will do what we can to fix them.
Contact us today on using our contact form or calling 0141 345 2036.