Audiology

For the first time, the World Health Organization (WHO) has included hearing aids among the interventions that may be offered as part of strategies to reduce the risk of cognitive decline and dementia, marking a notable change from its previous guidance. The recommendation appears in the WHO’s second edition of its guidelines on reducing the risk of cognitive decline and

by Paul A. Fagan, AM MD (Honoris Causa) FRCS FRACS; Isobel R. O’Loughlin, BHlthMedSc(Adv) M.ClinAud Acoustic Shock Syndrome—also referred to as Tonic Tensor Tympani Syndrome—has been described in individuals exposed to sudden, unexpected high-pitched sounds through telephone headsets or similar devices, most commonly in occupational settings such as call centers. These sounds, while typically brief and well below established safety

Many people may not know that untreated hearing loss can affect emotional well-being. This is brought about in part due to the struggle of following conversations, but also because hearing loss can contribute to rising stress levels, increased fatigue, and social withdrawal. These factors all contribute to reduced mental resilience. Innovation in hearing aid technology provides a holistic solution. By

Concerts are the ultimate ear candy, where the beats drop, the bass thumps, and the music makes your heart sing. The thrill of a live show—the energy of the crowd and the pulse of the music from your favorite artists—can leave you buzzing with excitement long after the final encore. But while that immersive wall of sound is exhilarating, it

Humans connect through communication, and hearing is a vital component of this process. Hearing loss, often associated with aging, can also be caused by genetics, ototoxicity, poor listening habits, ear disease, and other factors. It is frequently referred to as the invisible disease since it happens gradually and is not immediately noticeable until its effects become profound. However, sudden hearing

‘You are what you eat’ – a phrase often echoed in conversations about health and well-being. Although we understand its significance in shaping our overall health, one aspect often overlooked is its profound impact on hearing. While diets are typically associated with weight management, cardiovascular health, and diabetes, their role in preserving and even enhancing hearing health deserves closer attention.

Hearing loss forms part of the global burden of disease, where over 430 million people suffer from disabling hearing loss. Hearing loss does not discriminate and is no exception across healthcare workers. A critical job function for many medical professionals, including doctors, nurses, veterinarians, and others, is the ability to use a stethoscope. They use a stethoscope to listen to

In a not-so-distant past, the concept of advances in medical technology that exist today were deemed virtually impossible. The evolutions of science and technology has ventured beyond the boundaries of our imagination, turning once-unthinkable possibilities into tangible realities. For every obstacle faced, it seems that twice as many new opportunities have emerged. Yet, amidst this remarkable progress and the ongoing

Ototoxicity, a term formed from “oto” (ear) and “toxicity” (poisoning), refers to ear poisoning caused by exposure to drugs or chemicals that can damage the inner ear or vestibulo-cochlear nerve. Given the inner ear’s vital role in both hearing and balance, ototoxicity has the potential to disrupt one or both of these critical senses. The severity and occurrence of inner

There are now a number of “hearing tests” that can be performed in the quiet of one’s own home.  These are predominantly threshold-based tests and are typically limited by the environmental condition of the test room or by the asymmetry of unmatched earphones or loudspeakers that are commonly used by the public. One Minute Quick Test The following is a