Articles tagged with Hearing Loss
Researchers discovered that superoxide-producing cells in the inner ear cochlea increase with aging, noise damage, and ototoxic drugs, leading to age-related, noise-induced, and drug-induced hearing loss. Suppressing superoxide production or using Nox3 inhibitors may lead to new treatments for acquired hearing loss.
Researchers from Brigham and Women's Hospital analyzed data from nearly 144,000 women and found a 40% higher risk of moderate or worse hearing loss in those with osteoporosis or low bone density. Bisphosphonates did not alter this risk, suggesting that other factors may contribute to the development of age-related hearing loss.
University of Alberta scientists have identified Toll-like receptor 4 as a potential target for preventing permanent hearing loss caused by the chemotherapy drug cisplatin. By inhibiting this receptor, they may be able to eliminate toxic side effects from the drug that cause hearing loss in childhood cancer survivors.
A study led by Penn Medicine researchers identified a new genetic cause of hearing loss and its link to the GAS2 protein's role in amplifying sound waves. The researchers found that the absence of functional GAS2 leads to severe hearing impairment in mice, highlighting the importance of this protein for normal hearing.
A study analyzed the association between hearing loss and level of physical activity among U.S. adults aged 60 to 69. The findings suggest a significant positive correlation, indicating that lower levels of physical activity may be associated with an increased risk of hearing loss in older adults.
The USPSTF recommends no routine screening for hearing loss in asymptomatic adults 50 and older due to insufficient evidence. Nearly 16% of U.S. adults report difficulty hearing, which is associated with increased risks of falls, hospitalizations, social isolation, and cognitive decline.
A systematic review of research evidence has found a strong association between Covid-19 and auditory problems, including hearing loss, tinnitus, and vertigo. The prevalence rates were estimated to be 7.6%, 14.8%, and 7.2% respectively.
A small study presented at the Endocrine Society's annual meeting found that 17 out of 26 patients taking teprotumumab reported otologic symptoms, including subjective hearing loss and tinnitus. The authors recommend baseline audiogram testing to better understand this potential side effect.
A national poll reveals that 80% of Americans over 50 haven't had their hearing checked by a professional in two years. Despite growing evidence about the importance of hearing, many older adults face barriers to timely care due to cost and stigma.
Tinnitus is a common hearing disorder affecting 7-8% of the population, causing irritability, depression, and even suicidal thoughts. Researchers review its pathophysiology, health impacts, and innovative engineering approaches to suppress its effects.
Researchers found that disrupting balance of gamma waves between hemispheres affects how brains integrate information from left and right ears. The study uses electric brain stimulation to manipulate interhemispheric connectivity, paving the way for new treatments for tinnitus and hearing loss.
The largest multi-center study of cisplatin-induced hearing loss reveals that permanent hearing loss occurs in 20-90% of patients, with higher doses and vincristine use increasing risk. The study establishes benchmarks for the prevalence of hearing loss and provides insights into how adjusting dosing approaches can minimize side effects.
People with combined vision and hearing loss are nearly four times more likely to experience depression, while those with both issues suffer chronic anxiety. Researchers found a significant link between sensory loss and mental health problems in a study of over 23,000 adults.
Researchers found that disposable surgical masks provide the best acoustic performance among tested masks, reducing high-frequency sound muffle and allowing speech to be heard clearly. Loosely woven cotton masks also perform well but may not block respiratory droplets as effectively.
Researchers from Tel Aviv University and Galilee Medical Center conducted a study to investigate the possibility of hearing loss caused by COVID-19 infection. They found no evidence of permanent neural or sensory damage to the auditory system, contradicting some reports in professional literature.
A study of 31 older adults found that acceptable noise levels in restaurants vary, with even those considered 'age-friendly' being too loud. The researchers suggest that restaurants can create more comfortable environments for customers, leading to increased patronage and revenue.
A new study published in PLOS ONE describes the use of functional near-infrared spectroscopy (fNIRS) to objectively detect tinnitus. The technology revealed differences in brain connectivity between people with and without tinnitus, and accurately differentiated patients with mild from moderate/severe cases using machine learning.
The EAR-PC study found that 25% of patients over 55 had signs of hearing loss and referral rates increased by 10-fold after electronic prompts. The findings suggest effective hearing loss screening in primary care can improve health outcomes for older adults.
A new study found that COVID-19 is making tinnitus worse in 40% of cases, with internal and external factors contributing to the increase in symptoms. Tinnitus affects an estimated one in eight adults in the UK, and the pandemic has made it more difficult for people to access healthcare support for the condition.
Researchers from the University of Minnesota developed a bimodal neuromodulation treatment using sound and electrical stimulation to reduce tinnitus symptoms. The study, published in Science Translational Medicine, showed significant improvements in symptom severity for 86% of participants after 12 weeks of treatment.
A 45-year-old man with asthma experienced sudden permanent hearing loss in one ear after being treated for COVID-19, highlighting a possible new side effect. Prompt steroid treatment can reverse the condition.
A non-invasive device has reduced tinnitus symptoms by up to 1 year, achieving high patient satisfaction. The bimodal technique uses sound and low-voltage electricity to stimulate the ears and tongue, providing a potentially effective treatment for this debilitating auditory disorder.
A new ultra-affordable hearing aid called LoCHAid has been developed to combat age-related hearing loss, costing just $0.98 per unit. The device is designed to be marketable over-the-counter and can be repaired by minimally skilled users, making it accessible to those in low- and middle-income countries.
The ultra-low-cost LoCHAid device uses electronic filters to shape frequency response and is designed for easy manufacture and repair in low-income countries. It has the potential to provide sufficient value for users despite its limitations, particularly in comparison to luxury hearing aid options.
A five-year grant will follow over 2,000 testicular cancer survivors to examine the role of genetic variants in platinum toxicities and assess the impact on physical, emotional, and social functioning. The study aims to identify high-risk subgroups and provide guidelines to decrease damaging side effects.
Researchers at Newcastle University propose a new theory that links hearing loss to dementia, suggesting that the auditory system's impact on brain function may trigger Alzheimer's disease. The study identifies key aspects of this connection, including memory centers and cognitive impairment.
A new consensus statement recommends cochlear implants for adults with moderate to severe hearing loss, which can restore clarity and improve communication. The panel of experts emphasizes that these devices are not only for young children but also suitable for adults who have lost hearing later in life.
A new study published in Annals of Internal Medicine found that a substantial number of overdose deaths were misclassified as sudden cardiac deaths, leading to grossly underestimated national estimates of the opioid overdose burden. Meanwhile, another study provides real-world recommendations for overcoming telemedicine challenges with...
A new report from the Lancet Commission identifies 12 modifiable risk factors that can delay or prevent 40% of dementia cases. These include reducing excessive alcohol intake, limiting air pollution, and promoting physical activity throughout life.
A recent study published in JNeurosci suggests that age-related hearing loss is primarily caused by the death of hair cells, rather than degradation of the cellular battery powering them. This finding contradicts previous assumptions and has significant implications for preventing or treating age-related hearing loss
The study found that asthma was significantly more common among children with attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), autism spectrum disorder (ASD), and vision, hearing, or speech delays. Children with these conditions were nearly twice as likely to have asthma compared to their non-disabled peers.
Scientists at UCL have discovered sets of regulatory genes responsible for maintaining healthy hearing in fruit flies. They found that manipulating these genes could prevent age-related hearing loss in humans, and have already started a follow-up drug discovery project to fast-track novel treatments.
A team of researchers at Friedrich-Alexander-Universität Erlangen-Nürnberg has developed a computer-based model to explain chronic tinnitus. The model is based on stochastic resonance, which amplifies white noise in the brain to compensate for hearing loss and increased nerve cell activity.
A study found that age-related hearing loss damages the brain's hippocampus, a key memory organ. The findings suggest that progressive hearing impairment impairs memory formation by altering neurotransmitter receptors.
A new study has identified two biomarkers that may help explain why people with normal hearing struggle to follow conversations in noisy environments. By measuring brain function and cognitive effort, researchers have developed objective tests for hidden hearing loss, a condition affecting an estimated 48 million Americans.
Musicians are at serious risk of developing tinnitus and hearing difficulties primarily due to prolonged exposure to loud noises. The study's findings support industry insiders' long-held concerns about the impact of workplace noise on musicians' hearing.
Researchers found that women following healthful dietary patterns had lower risk of decline in hearing sensitivity. The study, published in the American Journal of Epidemiology, suggests that eating a healthy diet may help prevent or delay hearing loss.
A new study found that even slight impairments in hearing can lead to decreased cognitive function, with the largest decline occurring in those whose hearing was just starting to become impaired. The researchers suggest that treating hearing loss could reduce dementia incidence by up to 9%.
Researchers found that extended high-frequency hearing loss contributes to difficulty hearing speech in noisy environments even in individuals with normal hearing. The study suggests EHF hearing may predict age-related hearing loss at an early age, highlighting the importance of preventive measures.
Researchers found deep brain stimulation to be safe and effective in reducing the severity of tinnitus in patients with no other confounding comorbidity. The procedure showed significant clinical improvement in three out of five patients, with improvements in Tinnitus Functional Index scores and Tinnitus Handicap Inventory scores.
A study published in the Journal of the American Geriatrics Society found that older adults with newly diagnosed hearing loss who receive hearing aids have a lower risk of developing dementia, depression, and fall-related injuries compared to those who do not. The study, which analyzed data from nearly 115,000 Medicare beneficiaries, a...
Researchers at USF's Global Center for Hearing and Speech Research have developed a novel treatment for age-related hearing loss, combining aldosterone supplements with anti-inflammatory medications. The treatment has shown promising results in pre-clinical trials on mice, slowing down or preventing age-linked hearing impairment.
The updated guideline prioritizes early diagnosis, prompt intervention, and reduced unnecessary tests to improve patient outcomes. Enhanced emphasis on patient education and shared decision-making aims to optimize care for patients with sudden sensorineural hearing loss.
A new study finds that patients with tinnitus and hyperacusis who had a history of parental mental illness in childhood are more likely to experience suicidal and self-harm ideations. Researchers recommend screening for these risks, especially in patients with depression.
A population-based study in Taiwan found hearing loss is associated with an increased risk of dementia, particularly among those aged 45-64. Coexisting conditions such as diabetes and cardiovascular disease also contributed to the dementia risk.
A Japanese study finds that hearing loss in older people is associated with restricted outdoor activities, anxiety, and memory loss. The condition also leads to communication barriers, stress, and cognitive decline.
A new study reveals that age-related and noise-induced hearing losses affect the brain's sound processing differently. Researchers found that mild noise-induced hearing loss causes similar processing impairment as moderate to severe age-related hearing loss.
A study published in the Journal of Neuromuscular Diseases reveals four clinical characteristics associated with secondary modifying genes in CMT1A. The researchers identified significant genomic loci containing candidate genes that could explain disease variability and potentially predict natural course of disease.
Inflammation in the auditory cortex of mice with noise-induced hearing loss is associated with elevated proinflammatory cytokines and microglia activation, leading to tinnitus. Pharmacological blockade or depletion of these cells can prevent tinnitus in affected mice.
Young cancer survivors with severe hearing loss experience significant declines in reading skills due to processing speed and phonological difficulties. Interventions focusing on neurocognitive and language-based skills can help improve reading mastery before tackling more complex tasks.
Researchers at IRB Barcelona have characterized the structure of BasC, a LAT family member, to understand its function and molecular defects associated with diseases like autism and age-related hearing loss. The study identifies the site where amino acids bind and reveals the mechanism underlying their interaction with cells.
A recent study of 13,940 adults aged 65+ found that nearly half reported difficulty hearing, leading to lower levels of patient activation. Those with more severe hearing loss were at increased risk for poor outcomes and reduced patient involvement in care.
A new study found that hearing impairment accelerates cognitive decline with age, but higher education reduces the impact of milder hearing losses. The researchers tracked 1,164 participants over 24 years and discovered that social engagement did not affect the association between hearing loss and cognitive decline.
A new study reveals an association between hearing loss and higher risk of subjective cognitive concerns, suggesting early stage changes in cognition. Men with mild, moderate, or severe hearing loss experienced a 30%, 42%, and 54% increased risk of cognitive decline compared to those with no hearing loss.
A recent Baycrest study found that many older adults being evaluated for memory concerns had mild to severe hearing loss. Addressing hearing issues may mitigate or fix what appears to be a memory problem. Hearing loss is a common chronic condition affecting 50% of those over 65 and 90% of those over 80.
A new study published in JAMA Otolaryngology-Head & Neck Surgery found that elderly individuals with age-related hearing loss had more symptoms of depression. The study analyzed data from 5,239 Hispanic participants and found a significant association between hearing loss and depressive symptoms.
A University of Miami medical team reported acute neurosensory symptoms in 25 US diplomats who experienced severe symptoms after exposure to a unique sound and pressure phenomenon. The study found evidence of balance disorders, cognitive dysfunction, and psychological issues, which do not resemble traumatic brain injury.
A new study finds that hearing loss is associated with an increased risk of mortality before age 75 due to cardiovascular disease. Adults with a well-hearing partner experience diminished mortality risk, suggesting social support plays a crucial role in mitigating the effects of hearing loss.
A new study reveals that patients with untreated hearing loss incur significantly higher total health care costs over time, totaling $22,434 per person over a decade. The study found that older adults with untreated hearing loss generated nearly 46% more in total health care costs compared to those without hearing loss.
A new study from The University of Texas at Dallas analyzes the impact of terrorism injuries, estimating that victims lost an average of 12,628 years of healthy life due to injuries. The study puts the annual toll of terrorist attacks in context with other causes of death, highlighting the devastating human cost of these events.