Articles tagged with Hearing Loss
Researchers at Wayne State University have been awarded a $330,000 NSF grant to develop a 3-D neural probe that can suppress tinnitus by electrically and chemically stimulating neurons. The probe will enable the integration of micro-channels for neurotransmitter-based chemical stimulation and local drug delivery.
A study found that injection therapy with intratympanic methylprednisolone was not inferior to oral prednisone in treating idiopathic sudden sensorineural hearing loss. The treatment showed comparable efficacy at 2 and 6 months, with improved hearing recovery rates for both groups.
A new study by Henry Ford Health shows that patients with mild hearing loss are motivated to purchase hearing aids based on factors other than cost, including perception of need and insurance coverage. Despite significant advancements in hearing aid technology and comfort, many adults with mild hearing loss do not acquire devices.
A new study from the University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine reveals that tinnitus is caused by a lack of inhibition in key neural pathways of the brain's auditory center. The research suggests that increasing GABA-mediated inhibition may be an effective treatment for tinnitus, and a potential new approach to drug development.
Children with bone-anchored hearing aids experience improved hearing and quality of life, particularly in noisy environments. Younger children tend to benefit more from the device.
Seniors with hearing loss are more likely to develop dementia over time than those with normal hearing. The study found a significant link between the two conditions, with the risk of developing dementia increasing by twofold, threefold, and fivefold for individuals with mild, moderate, and severe hearing loss.
Researchers have discovered that mucosa-derived stem cells can preserve hearing function in children with sensorineural hearing loss. The study shows promising results for nasal stem cell transplants as a potential treatment for this condition and potentially other diseases such as Parkinson's disease and cardiac infarction.
A study by Ben-Gurion University researchers found that workers with occupational-related hearing loss experienced impaired sleep quality, including insomnia and excessive daytime sleepiness. The study also discovered a significant correlation between tinnitus symptoms and sleep disruptions in workers exposed to harmful noise.
Researchers at the University of Texas at Dallas have developed a new treatment for tinnitus, a debilitating hearing impairment affecting millions. Targeted nerve stimulation, paired with sounds, eliminated tinnitus in rats and shows promise for human clinical trials.
Non-smokers exposed to tobacco smoke are at risk of hearing loss, with men and older individuals more likely to experience high-frequency hearing loss. Even low levels of passive smoking can continue the progression of hearing loss in former smokers.
A study of 282 individuals found that radiation therapy for head and neck cancer can cause significant hearing loss, with severe cases affecting daily life. The research highlights the need to consider hearing loss as a potential health issue in cancer patients undergoing treatment.
The prevalence of hearing loss among US adolescents increased significantly, with 1 in 5 adolescents affected in 2005-2006. The majority of hearing loss was slight, and females were less likely to demonstrate any hearing loss.
The AAO-HNSF Annual Meeting supplement features over 305 scientific research sessions, addressing common afflictions such as hearing loss, sleep disorders, and head and neck cancer. Store-and-forward telemedicine has been shown to be effective in planning elective major ear surgery.
Researchers used next generation sequencing to identify genetic mutations in a family with Perrault syndrome, a rare disorder associated with hearing loss and ovarian failure. The study found a common gene HSD17B4 linked to both Perrault syndrome and DBP deficiency, a severe congenital syndrome.
A small study published in Occupational and Environmental Medicine found that regular mobile phone use for at least four years may double the risk of developing chronic tinnitus. The prevalence of chronic tinnitus is increasing, with around 10-15% of people in developed countries affected.
A new drug called ADAC has been found to restore hearing in rats with noise-induced hearing loss. Early treatment with multiple injections of ADAC significantly attenuated noise-induced hearing loss and improved sensory hair cell survival.
Researchers propose a testable model of human tinnitus suggesting that the brain's limbic system, which normally blocks sound sensations sent from non-real sources, is compromised in people with tinnitus. This could lead to new therapeutic approaches by restoring the feedback loop and eliminating phantom sounds.
A UAB study found an association between hearing loss and the use of Viagra, with users twice as likely to report hearing loss. The findings suggest a potential link between PDE-5i medications and long-term hearing loss, warranting FDA warnings.
A study found cochlear implants slightly benefit older adults, but not as much as younger patients. The results suggest that older patients may experience a prolonged adaptation phase and have inherent limitations in processing high-rate stimulation paradigms.
A new study has found that children with hearing loss in one ear tend to have poorer oral language scores than their peers with normal hearing. The researchers discovered a significant link between unilateral hearing loss and lower language skills, particularly among disadvantaged children.
A new study published in Archives of Otolaryngology – Head and Neck Surgery reveals that the relative importance of genetic factors in tinnitus is low. The research found that environmental factors account for 89% of tinnitus variance, with only 11% attributed to genetic effects.
Sudden sensorineural hearing loss (SSNHL) affects one ear, often associated with tinnitus and vertigo. Short-course corticosteroids are recommended for patients with suspected SSNHL after ruling out life-threatening causes.
Researchers discovered that a commonly used antibiotic, kanamycin, protects mouse ears from noise-induced hearing loss when given in low doses. The finding has significant implications for the development of new treatments and could benefit groups such as premature babies, soldiers, and airline workers.
A University of Florida team has identified a protein that contributes to age-related hearing loss in the elderly. The findings suggest that enhancing antioxidant defenses may reduce damage and delay onset of hearing loss, offering new targets for therapy.
A new study has identified a gene essential to age-related hearing loss, which is linked to oxidative stress and programmed cell death. The researchers found that oral antioxidants can prevent the condition, providing hope for future treatments.
A review of nearly 150 papers found that tinnitus causes significant distress, with many patients told nothing can be done to alleviate symptoms. The researchers advocate for increased support, guidance, and treatment options for those affected.
Researchers found a strong correlation between a genetic mutation of anti-oxidant enzymes and age-related hearing loss, with patients exhibiting the mutation being three times more likely to develop ARHL. The study also revealed no association between the NAT2 gene and ARHL.
A comprehensive study of noise-induced hearing loss (NIHL) finds that men are 2.5 times more likely to develop the condition than women, with married white non-Hispanic men representing the highest risk group. The study analyzed data from over 5,000 individuals and found NIHL to affect approximately 24 million Americans.
A new study found that higher folate intake can decrease the risk of hearing loss in men, while antioxidant vitamins have no beneficial effect. Men over 60 with high folate intake had a 20% lower risk of developing hearing loss.
A new study uses magnetoencephalography (MEG) to detect the site of perception of tinnitus in the brain, allowing physicians to target specific areas with treatments. The imaging technique reveals activity in both hemispheres of the brain for patients with bilateral tinnitus, providing hope for future interventional strategies.
Researchers found Metropolitan Transit Authority (MTA) subways had the highest average noise levels in New York City, with levels high enough to increase the risk of noise-induced hearing loss. The study highlights the need for increased transit infrastructure maintenance and personal protection measures to reduce noise exposure.
Researchers at Duke University Medical Center found that nearly half of people age 65 and older have hearing loss, while one-third have vocal problems. The study suggests a causal relationship between the two disabilities, which can increase depression scores and social isolation.
Researchers discovered adult animals with hearing loss convert sense of touch to auditory regions of the brain, impacting quality of life. The study provides insight into the brain's ability to re-wire itself and may have implications for treatment of mild hearing loss in humans.
A new study by the University of Colorado at Boulder found that teenagers who express concern about hearing loss risk actually play their music louder than peers, while those with lower concerns listen at safer volumes. The study also shows teens play music louder than young adults and may inaccurately perceive volume levels.
A study found that nearly 1 in 5 children with sensorineural hearing loss also have ocular disorders. Genetic testing showed that GJB2 mutations are associated with hearing loss but not additional anomalies. Early diagnosis and treatment of eye problems can benefit these patients.
A UCLA study shows that microscopic crystals in the inner ear form sound and gravity sensors through cilia movement. The research provides new clues for treating vertigo and hearing disorders related to cilia function, offering a potential gene target for therapy.
Researchers found that episodes of dizziness in patients with Ménière's disease decrease over time. Surgery to drain fluid from the inner ear also appears to reduce vertigo in three-fourths of patients, according to a new study.
Researchers at Michigan Medicine have discovered a vitamin and mineral combination that may prevent hearing loss caused by loud noises. The formula, called AuraQuell, was successful in laboratory tests and is now being tested in human clinical trials.
Researchers at Medical College of Georgia identified a new gene, chromodomain helicase DNA binding protein 7 (CHD7), responsible for some puberty disorders, including idiopathic hypogonadotropic hypogonadism (IHH) and Kallmann syndrome. The study found that CHD7 mutations account for about 6% of IHH and Kallmann syndrome cases.
Age-Related Hearing Impairment (ARHI) affects nearly 1 in 3 people between the ages of 65 and 75, causing gradual changes in the inner ear. Recent advances in basic science may help prevent ARHI by understanding inner ear hair cell loss.
A new study at the AAO-HNSF Annual Meeting & OTO EXPO found that patients with sudden sensorineural hearing loss (SSHL) receive inconsistent care due to lack of established clinical practice guidelines. SSHL is a rare but serious otological event affecting between 5 and 20 people per 100,000 per year.
Using MRI, researchers identified soft tissue defects contributing to hearing loss in children, affecting thousands of kids per year. The study found abnormalities in the cochlea and auditory nerve in 40% of ears with sensorineural hearing loss.
Researchers from Michigan State University found that many low-cost over-the-counter hearing aids fail to meet basic fitting requirements and may damage a person's hearing. The study advises consumers to consult with an audiologist for proper fitting and customization.
A study published in Archives of Internal Medicine found that approximately 29 million Americans have speech frequency hearing loss, while an estimated 55 million have high-frequency hearing loss. The prevalence of hearing loss varies by age, gender, and ethnicity, with men being more likely to experience it.
A new study found that estradiol helps protect against auditory damage, particularly in mice with deficiencies in estrogen receptors. Treatment with ER-beta-binding drugs also showed promise in preventing hearing loss.
Scientists have developed a breakthrough laboratory technique to isolate and grow hair cells, essential sound detectors in the inner ear. This new method provides a reliable source for researchers studying inner-ear disorders, including hearing loss and balance problems.
Researchers have shown that bone marrow stem cells can speed up hearing recovery in rats with damaged inner ears. The stem cells repaired the injured cochlear fibrocytes, leading to faster recovery of high-frequency hearing, and improved hearing by 23% compared to natural regeneration.
A systematic review and meta-analysis found little to no scientific evidence supporting the use of steroids or other therapies for treating sudden sensorineural hearing loss. The study suggests that systemic steroids may not be the gold standard of treatment due to severe limitations in existing studies.
Researchers have identified a gene, TGBF1, that contributes to otosclerosis, the single most common cause of hearing loss among white adults. The study found that a specific variant of this gene is protective against the disease.
Researchers at UCI have identified a novel approach to treating tinnitus by applying a low-pitched sound through an MP3 player, providing temporary relief from high-pitched ringing tones. The treatment, which is only effective while applied, suggests customized stimulation and balanced stimulation as key to suppressing tinnitus.
A study analyzing data from a mail survey found that tinnitus perceived loudness and annoyance are influenced by clinical factors like duration, consistency, and hearing loss. Most patients with severe tinnitus experience high levels of distress, especially men, older adults, and those with co-existing conditions.
Research reveals that even short exposure to loud noise during Stanley Cup games can be harmful, with fans receiving up to 81% of their daily noise dose without ear protection. Earplugs can mitigate this risk and help prevent hearing loss and tinnitus.
Researchers found that fans without ear protection in Edmonton Oilers games received a daily allowable noise dose of over 8,100%, posing a significant risk to their hearing. The study highlights the importance of wearing protective gear during loud events like hockey playoffs.
Researchers at CU-Boulder and Children's Hospital developed guidelines for safe earphone listening levels using iPods. Typically, individuals can safely listen to music for 4.6 hours a day at 70% volume without risking hearing loss.
Daily exposure to noise on subway platforms and cars can cause hearing loss, with average maximum levels exceeding recommended limits by up to 30 minutes. Researchers found that frequent long-term rides and other high-noise activities increase the risk of hearing damage.
A study of 1,911 adults found that visual impairment significantly increases the risk of hearing loss, with both conditions affecting physical and mental domains. The two impairments share common risk factors, including oxidative stress, smoking, and atherosclerosis.
Researchers at St. Jude Children's Research Hospital have identified 17 families of mice with genetic mutations that cause hearing loss, similar to damage caused by chemotherapy and age-related hearing loss in adults. The mouse models will help scientists understand the genes responsible for this damage and potentially develop treatments.
Researchers identified risk factors associated with hearing loss in children with bacterial meningitis, including Streptococcus pneumoniae meningitis. Length of hospitalization, seizures, and cerebrospinal fluid protein levels were significant predictors for hearing loss.
A study by Baylor College of Medicine found that early identification and treatment of hearing loss in children with bacterial meningitis can minimize its impact on social interactions. Children suffering from the Streptococcus form of meningitis were more likely to experience hearing loss.
A Duke University study found that hearing loss contributes to a decline in quality of life, particularly among the elderly. The study also revealed that approximately six million people in the US use hearing aids, but 35-50% of users are not satisfied with their devices.