Researchers have discovered a novel genetic mutation in the SERPINB6 gene that causes malfunction of an inhibitor enzyme, leading to accelerated hearing loss. In humans, individuals with this mutation typically lose their hearing from 20 years of age, while mice with the condition start losing their hearing at three weeks old.
Researchers found a very high percentage of adult survivors with one or more chronic health conditions, including pulmonary, auditory, and cardiac dysfunction. The estimated cumulative prevalence of any chronic health condition was 95% by age 45 years.
A new study at UT Dallas is investigating whether hearing aids can improve balance and prevent falls in people with hearing impairments. The research project aims to identify individuals at risk of falling and evaluate the effects of different hearing aid technologies on balance and gait.
A study by Johns Hopkins Medicine found that older adults with hearing loss declined in cognitive abilities 30-40% faster than those with normal hearing. The study, involving 1,984 participants, suggests that hearing loss may be linked to social isolation and brain energy diversion.
A general practitioner shares her frustrating experience with a bureaucratic sickness benefit system. The system requires patients to wait on hold, answer lengthy questions, and provide multiple documents, which can be overwhelming for those who are already unwell.
Researchers evaluated MDHearingAid's acoustic properties and tested it on patients with mild to moderately-severe hearing loss. The study found the device to be electroacoustically adequate and a reasonable low-cost solution for those who cannot afford custom hearing aids.
A recent study found that frequent use of ibuprofen and acetaminophen is associated with an increased risk of hearing loss in women. The study, published in the American Journal of Epidemiology, suggests that these pain-relieving medicines may reduce blood flow to the cochlea or deplete factors that protect it from damage.
The American College of Physicians recommends against routine screening for age-related hearing loss due to insufficient evidence on benefits and harms. For schizophrenia, there is little research to support the use of second-generation antipsychotics over first-generation drugs.
A new project aims to increase hearing aid use by providing easy-to-use video tutorials that address common barriers to adoption. The tutorials offer practical tips, animations, and real-life experiences from users to support patients in making the most of their devices.
Researchers found that a multidisciplinary approach combining cognitive behaviour therapy with sound-based tinnitus retraining therapy significantly improves quality of life and reduces symptoms in adults with tinnitus. The study recruited 492 adults and showed that the new treatment programme is beneficial for both mild and severe cases.
Children born with cleft lip and/or palate face significant medical complications, including respiratory, feeding, speech, and hearing difficulties. A multidisciplinary approach is crucial in managing these patients.
A new study from Henry Ford Hospital found a significant association between insomnia and the severity of perceived tinnitus symptoms. Patients with insomnia reported greater emotional distress from tinnitus, highlighting the need for evaluation and treatment of insomnia patients to reduce tinnitus symptom severity.
A new study by Johns Hopkins researchers links hearing loss to a three-fold increased risk of falling among the elderly. The findings suggest that people with hearing loss may have reduced awareness of their environment and an increased cognitive load, making them more prone to falls.
A new study led by Johns Hopkins researchers estimates nearly 23 million Americans age 50 and older have untreated hearing loss. The finding highlights the need for increased awareness and access to hearing aids, as well as rehabilitative training to learn how to integrate devices into daily lives.
A new study at the University of Michigan Health System found that exposure to loud noise can cause long-lasting changes to sensory pathways. Touch-sensing nerve cells may be the gateway to future tinnitus treatments.
A new study from Henry Ford Hospital found that diabetes affects hearing loss in women, with poorly controlled diabetes leading to significantly worse hearing. The study also showed that men have worse hearing loss across the board, regardless of age or diabetes control.
A recent study by Tel Aviv University researchers found that one in four teenagers is at risk of early hearing loss due to excessive music listening on personal listening devices. The study recommends adopting European standards limiting output to 100 decibels and promoting awareness among schools and parents.
Researchers at UT Dallas are studying the brain's response to noise-induced tinnitus, discovering that plasticity in the hippocampus can lead to long-term effects. Exposure to loud noises induces changes in brain function, which could lead to new medical interventions.
The Royal Arch Masons have awarded a $100,000 grant to Autism Speaks to investigate auditory processing disorders in children with autism. The grant aims to create better outcomes for children at risk of developing both ASD and CAPD by addressing precursor symptoms of auditory processing disorders.
A new study by Johns Hopkins researchers found that nearly 30 million Americans have severe hearing loss, with prevalence doubling every decade. The finding suggests that many more people than previously thought are affected by this condition, which has significant consequences for cognitive decline and physical functioning.
The AAO-HNSF Annual Meeting & OTO EXPO features groundbreaking research in otolaryngology, including studies on deviated noses and nasal base asymmetry. Deficiencies in otolaryngologic knowledge among primary care providers are also highlighted.
Researchers found that the area underneath the helmet and near the chin bar generates significant noise that reaches riders' sensitive eardrums. Future tests aim to design quieter helmets using the findings, which may be used to save riders' ears.
A recent study found that adolescents exposed to secondhand smoke are at a higher risk of hearing loss, with over 80% of participants unaware they had impairment. The study suggests that SHS could be considered a risk factor for hearing loss, highlighting the need for close monitoring and education among exposed adolescents.
Na Zhu, a PhD student at Wayne State University, has received the American Tinnitus Association Student Research Grant Program award. Her innovative 3D diagnostic system aims to pinpoint neural network activities in the brain's auditory structure.
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.
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.
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.
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.