FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Hearing Loss: Now the Third Most Common Health Problem in the United States

Hearing loss currently affects more than 36 million Americans today. Although hearing problems are commonly associated with the normal aging process, more than half of all hearing-impaired persons are younger than 65. With the increased use of personal music players (MP3s) and earbuds, the number of Americans experiencing hearing loss at a younger age is growing.

On average, most Americans consider hearing loss a condition that is simply associated with aging, and don’t know how to recognize the condition or who is qualified to diagnose and treat the condition. In response to this growing number of Americans suffering from hearing loss, the American Academy of Audiology in conjunction with APG Audiology have launched a program for educational information.

An audiologist is a doctoral-level health-care professional who specialize in evaluating, diagnosing, and treating people with hearing loss and balance disorders. Audiologist treat patients of all ages – newborns, babies, toddlers, children, teens, adults, and the elderly. The first step in treatment of a hearing evaluation by an audiologist.

“Hearing loss can be caused by exposure to loud noises; ear infections, trauma, or ear disease; harm to the inner ear and eardrum; illness or certain medications; and deterioration due to normal aging process,” explains Anne Pratt Giroux, Au.D.

You may have a problem with your hearing and need to see an audiologist, if you have trouble hearing conversation in a noisy environment such as a restaurant, are unable to hear people talk to you without looking at them, or have a constant ringing or pain in your ears.

APG Audiology offers a variety of services that include, but not limited to:

Ø Complete audiometric testing

Ø Demonstration, selection and fitting hearing aids

Ø Designing and implementing hearing conservation programs

Ø Certification for CAOHC trained technicians

Ø Providing hearing rehabilitation such as

· Auditory training

· Speech reading

· Listening skills improvement

Ø Advice on hearing protection

Although most hearing loss that is caused by nerve damage is permanent, an audiologist can determine the best treatment, which may include hearing aids, assistive listening devices, and hearing rehabilitation.

For more information or to schedule an appointment, contact us at 872-0320.