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Our physicians spent years learning the science behind human hearing. While we cannot condense their vast knowledge into a few short paragraphs, we want to give you a glimpse inside the process of human hearing. The hearing process can be broken down into 6 primary steps, which are:
Generally, it is recommended that adults have their hearing tested in 10-year intervals until they turn 50 years old. After hitting this milestone, they should get a hearing test every three years.
Before our physicians can appropriately treat you, they must first understand the extent of your hearing damage. Hearing tests show which types of sounds you are having trouble detecting and how severe the problem has become.
There are three types of hearing tests that we perform at American Hearing and Balance. They include:
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When we’re reviewing your results, our staff members will assess several factors. Unlike some other exams, hearing tests are not pass/fail. Instead, we measure your degree of hearing loss.
The first tool we use is an audiogram. This is a graph that shows the results of a pure-tone diagnostic test. It displays the volume that was required for you to hear certain frequencies.
After reviewing your results, our staff will be able to make an accurate diagnosis. They will also provide you with a custom treatment plan. This plan may involve protecting your remaining ability to hear. For patients with substantial hearing loss, our staff might also prescribe hearing aids.
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Unfortunately, hearing loss is more prevalent in older adults. Even when this hearing loss is apparent, it can be tough to talk a loved one into seeing an audiologist. It may be hard for them to admit that they need help or to accept a decline in physical abilities.
While our skilled audiologists in Los Angeles can treat hearing loss, not even the most expert doctor can repair the damage to your ear’s core components. That is why you must protect your ears if you work or live in a noisy environment.
Occupational-related hearing loss is some of the most common. High-risk professions include:
However, occupational hearing loss is not the only group that needs to protect their ears proactively. Popular recreational activities can also endanger your hearing. A few examples include:
We offer specialty swimming ear plugs for surfers and swimmers who may experience repeated ear infections or Surfer’s Ear due to frequent exposure to cold water and windy conditions. A condition known as exostosis, or Surfers’ Ear, can develop where bone begins to grow in the ear canal if the ears are not protected while surfing. Swimmers, too, can benefit from using custom swim plugs to prevent ear infections.
Fortunately, American Hearing and Balance can help you protect your ability to hear. We offer custom hearing protection solutions as well as custom molds for iPods, and earplugs for sleeping. We even sell musician’s plugs and monitors.
Typically, ear wax will clear out on its own. However, disruptions to the natural movement of the wax can cause it to build up in your ear canal. That is especially common in patients who wear hearing aids.
Call or Text Us: (213) 536-4543
