Understanding Meniere’s Disease: Symptoms, Causes, and Effective Treatments

Middle-aged person experiencing symptoms of Meniere’s disease

Meniere’s disease is a chronic and often unpredictable condition that affects the inner ear, leading to a range of distressing symptoms that can disrupt daily life. From sudden bouts of vertigo to progressive hearing loss, this disorder can make even the simplest tasks challenging and affect a person’s sense of stability and well-being. While it […]

Understanding Presbycusis: Age-Related Hearing Loss Explained

Older adult receiving a hearing test for age-related hearing loss

Hearing loss is a natural part of aging, but for many, it’s more than just asking someone to repeat themselves now and then. Presbycusis, or age-related hearing loss, is one of the most common chronic conditions affecting older adults. It often progresses so gradually that many people don’t realize how much it’s impacting their lives […]

Understanding Mixed Hearing Loss: Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment Options

Audiologist examining older adult for mixed hearing loss

Hearing loss affects millions of people worldwide, especially older adults, but not all hearing loss is the same. One particularly complex type is mixed hearing loss, which occurs when damage exists in both the outer or middle ear and the inner ear. This dual impairment can make sounds seem quieter, distorted, or difficult to interpret—significantly […]

Sensorineural vs Conductive Hearing Loss: What’s the Difference?

Diagram comparing sensorineural and conductive hearing loss

Hearing loss affects millions of people around the world, especially older adults. Yet, not all hearing loss is the same. Understanding the differences between sensorineural and conductive hearing loss is essential for choosing the right treatment and maintaining a high quality of life. These two common types of hearing loss affect the ear in distinct […]

Speech Audiometry vs Pure Tone Testing: What’s the Difference and Why It Matters

A comparison between speech audiometry and pure tone testing during a hearing exam

When it comes to understanding hearing loss, not all tests are created equal. If you’ve ever had a hearing evaluation—or are considering one—you’ve probably heard terms like pure tone audiometry and speech audiometry. These two tests are the backbone of most hearing assessments, yet many people don’t fully understand what they measure or how they […]

When Is an ABR Test Necessary? Understanding When and Why It’s Used

Patient undergoing an ABR hearing test with electrodes attached

Hearing is a complex process that involves not just the ears, but also the brain’s ability to interpret sound signals. When there’s a disruption anywhere along this pathway, it can impact how well we hear and understand the world around us. That’s where the Auditory Brainstem Response (ABR) test comes in—a specialized diagnostic tool designed […]

Understanding the OAE Test: Accuracy, Uses, and What to Expect

Audiologist performing an OAE test using a small probe in a patient’s ear.

Hearing health is a critical part of overall well-being, yet many people are unaware of the tools used to assess and protect it. One such tool is the Otoacoustic Emissions (OAE) test, a non-invasive, quick, and reliable way to evaluate the function of the inner ear. Often used in newborn hearing screenings and routine audiology […]

What Tympanometry Reveals About Your Ear Health: A Complete Guide

Tympanometry test being performed on a senior patient to assess ear health

Hearing health plays a vital role in overall wellbeing, especially as we age. If you’ve ever visited an audiologist or ENT specialist for hearing concerns, you might have undergone a test called tympanometry. Though it takes only a few minutes, tympanometry offers powerful insights into the condition of your middle ear—insights that can help detect […]

How to Read an Audiogram: A Simple Guide for Understanding Your Hearing Test Results

Person learning how to read an audiogram chart with professional help

Have you ever looked at an audiogram and felt completely lost? You’re not alone. Audiograms — the charts used by audiologists to map your hearing ability — can look like complicated medical diagrams at first glance. But the truth is, with a little guidance, they’re actually quite straightforward and can tell you a lot about […]

What to Expect During a Hearing Test: A Step-by-Step Guide

Senior adult undergoing a hearing test with an audiologist

Hearing is one of our most vital senses, connecting us to loved ones, keeping us aware of our surroundings, and enriching our daily lives. Yet, many people delay getting their hearing checked, often due to uncertainty about what the test involves or fear of the results. If you’ve never had a hearing test before—or it’s […]