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Is There a Cure for Hearing Loss?

In Hearing Health, Hearing Loss, Hearing Loss Treatment by Nikki DeGeorge Weaver, Au.D.

Hearing loss is one of the most common health issues affecting people today. Its multifaceted impact is often under-recognized even though it disrupts daily life in various unexpected ways. From watching TV, to talking on the phone, and spending time with others; impaired hearing can take a toll on everyday activities. There are numerous misconceptions about hearing loss which often leads to a delay in …

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Head Injuries & Hearing Loss

In Brain Health, Health, Hearing Health, Hearing Loss, Hearing Loss Prevention, Hearing Loss Treatment, Hearing Testing, Research by Nikki DeGeorge Weaver, Au.D.

Head injuries can impact health in a variety of ways including by causing hearing loss. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) estimates that 3 million head injuries occur annually. According to the CDC, 1 million of these are traumatic brain injuries, the most severe type of head injury a person can experience. In addition to impacting cognitive functions and mobility, head injuries can …

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Connecting People | May is Better Hearing and Speech Month!

In Communication, Hearing Health by Nikki DeGeorge Weaver, Au.D.

May is Better Hearing and Speech Month, and this year, the American Speech-Language-Hearing Association’s theme is “Connecting People.”  If we are one of the lucky ones, we take our five senses for granted. They fundamentally ground us in our reality and we depend on them not just for our basics of safety and survival but they are also the means for life’s greatest pleasures. It’s …

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How Loud is Too Loud for Kids?

In Hearing Health by Nikki DeGeorge Weaver, Au.D.

We are constantly absorbing sound throughout the day. With increasing access and integration of digital technology today, the noise exposure is even greater. This is especially true for kids who are using electronic devices now more than ever. Loud noise is one of the most common causes of hearing loss and listening to the audio on devices is a primary way people are exposed. The …

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How Smoking & Drinking May Affect Hearing

In Hearing Health by Nikki DeGeorge Weaver, Au.D.

Most people are aware of the common health risks associated with smoking and drinking – increased risk of developing conditions like cancer, heart disease, high blood pressure, etc. But we tend to be less aware of other health issues these behaviors can contribute to. This includes hearing loss, the third most pervasive medical condition people navigate today. Various studies show that smoking and drinking can …

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A Link Between Hearing Loss & Diabetes

In Hearing Loss by Nikki DeGeorge Weaver, Au.D.

Have you recently been diagnosed with diabetes? If so, you probably have a lot of questions. For instance, how do you manage this condition and what else will it affect? Most people understand that complications with diabetes can further heart and kidney issues, but did you know that hearing loss could also affect your hearing and balance? Understanding Diabetes Diabetes is a chronic health condition that …

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Prioritize Better Hearing in the New Year!

In Hearing Health, Hearing Loss by Nikki DeGeorge Weaver, Au.D.

As January rolls in it is the start of the New Year! It’s hard to tell what this next one will mean for us as a society. There is so much changing in the world on environmental and social levels and the changes each year brings can feel monumental. With so much in constant fluctuation, it’s important to carve out some time for your own …

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When Should I Update My Hearing Aids?

In Hearing Aids, Hearing Health by Nikki DeGeorge Weaver, Au.D.

If you’ve been wearing hearing aids for a few years, you may be wondering when you should update your hearing aids. On average, hearing aids should be updated every 3 to 5 years. But there’s no magic number, and the right time is different for everyone. Here are a few things to consider if you’re thinking about updating your hearing aids.  Are your Current Hearing …

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October is Protect Your Hearing Month

In Hearing Loss Prevention by Nikki DeGeorge Weaver, Au.D.

Hearing protection in the workplace is an essential piece of occupational safety. The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) is tasked with preserving the health and wellbeing of employees, particularly those who do not have labor unions or other collective advocates to protect their safety. At many large employers, including factories, industrial facilities, and corporations, OSHA is aware of the needs of these employees and …

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A Brief History of Hearing Loss

In Hearing Loss by Nikki DeGeorge Weaver, Au.D.

The history of hearing loss features incredible stories of the inventive ways that people have learned how to communicate with one another. Knowing the brief history of hearing loss will inspire you to think differently about how you communicate, to challenge yourself to be more creative in your thinking about how other people communicate, and give you tools to bridge any communication impasses you may …