Hearing loss is often associated with aging, but did you know that exposure to loud noises can also significantly impact your hearing? Noise-induced hearing loss (NIHL) is a prevalent yet preventable condition that affects many individuals, particularly those exposed to loud environments without adequate protection. As audiologists committed to your hearing health, we believe it's crucial to raise awareness about NIHL and emphasize the importance of using hearing protection. What is Noise-Induced Hearing Loss (NIHL)? Noise-induced hearing loss occurs when the delicate structures of the inner ear are damaged by prolonged exposure to loud noises or by sudden, intense sounds. This damage can be temporary or permanent, and typically affects high-frequency hearing first, gradually progressing to lower frequencies if exposure continues. Common Causes of NIHL Exposure to loud noises in various settings can contribute to NIHL, including: Occupational Noise: Industries such as construction, manufacturing, and entertainment (e.g., musicians, DJs) expose workers to high levels of noise. Recreational Activities: Activities like hunting, shooting sports, motorcycling, and attending concerts or sporting events can subject individuals to hazardous noise levels. Personal Listening Devices: Listening to music at high volumes through headphones or earbuds can also lead to NIHL over time. The Importance of Hearing Protection Preventing NIHL starts with protecting your ears in noisy environments. Here’s why hearing protection is essential: Preserving Your Hearing: Once hearing is damaged, it cannot be restored. Using hearing protection helps preserve your hearing abilities for the long term. Maintaining Quality of Life: Hearing loss can impact communication, social interactions, and overall quality of life. Protecting your hearing ensures you can continue to enjoy these aspects fully. Legal Requirements: Many workplaces require employees to use hearing protection in noisy environments to comply with occupational health and safety regulations. Types of Hearing Protection There are various types of hearing protection available to suit different needs and preferences: Earplugs: These fit snugly into the ear canal and are available in disposable foam, reusable silicone, or custom-molded options. Earmuffs: These cover the entire ear and provide a seal against external noise. They are adjustable and often preferred in high-noise environments. Custom Hearing Protection: Audiologists can create custom-molded earplugs or earmolds tailored to fit your ears perfectly for optimal comfort and protection. Tips for Using Hearing Protection Effectively To ensure maximum effectiveness of hearing protection: Choose the Right Type: Select hearing protection appropriate for the noise level and duration of exposure. Proper Fit: Ensure earplugs or earmuffs fit snugly and comfortably to create a seal against noise. Wear Consistently: Wear hearing protection consistently in noisy environments, even if exposure is occasional or intermittent. Monitor Noise Levels: Use apps or devices to monitor noise levels and gauge when hearing protection is necessary. Seeking Professional Guidance If you suspect you may have been exposed to harmful noise levels or are unsure about the effectiveness of your hearing protection, consult with an audiologist. We can assess your hearing health, provide personalized advice on hearing protection, and offer custom solutions to meet your needs. Conclusion Protecting your hearing is vital for maintaining a high quality of life and preventing avoidable hearing loss. By understanding the risks of noise-induced hearing loss and using appropriate hearing protection, you can safeguard your hearing abilities for years to come. At Becker Audiology, we are dedicated to helping you protect and preserve your hearing. Contact us today to learn more about our hearing protection solutions and schedule a consultation with one of our experienced audiologists. Take action today to protect your hearing—it's an investment in your future wellbeing. Dr. Ryan Becker, Au.D.

Living life to the fullest for many individuals involves activities that can be potentially hazardous to your hearing. At Becker Audiology, we offer a range of hearing protection products to keep your ears safe. Today’s product spotlight introduces you to a revolutionary solution in hearing protection and enhancement: the Starkey SoundGear Phantom. Designed with cutting-edge technology and precision engineering, the SoundGear Phantom offers a unique blend of protection, comfort, and clarity for individuals in various environments. What is Starkey SoundGear Phantom? The SoundGear Phantom is an advanced hearing protection device that combines state-of-the-art digital sound processing with customizable fit and comfort. Whether you're an avid hunter, a passionate musician, or someone who works in noisy environments, SoundGear Phantom provides the ultimate solution for preserving your hearing while enhancing your auditory experience. Key Features and Benefits Digital Sound Processing: The SoundGear Phantom uses digital technology to analyze and process incoming sounds in real-time. This allows it to amplify safe sounds and conversations while automatically reducing dangerous noise levels to protect your hearing. Customizable Fit: Each SoundGear Phantom device is custom-molded to fit your ear perfectly. This not only ensures maximum comfort but also optimizes the effectiveness of noise reduction and sound enhancement. Automatic Noise Reduction: It features intelligent noise reduction algorithms that detect and suppress harmful noise levels, providing a quieter, safer environment without compromising your ability to hear essential sounds. SoundGear Phantom comes with a 22 dB Noise Reduction Rating (NRR). Enhanced Communication: Unlike traditional earplugs or earmuffs, the SoundGear Phantom maintains clarity of speech and natural sound perception. This makes it ideal for situations where communication is crucial, such as in hunting, shooting sports, or professional settings. Rechargeable Technology: The SoundGear Phantom is equipped with rechargeable batteries, offering extended use on a single charge. This eco-friendly feature ensures convenience and sustainability. Bluetooth Connectivity: SoundGear Phantom offers Bluetooth connectivity to Apple and Android devices allowing you to stream phone calls, music or other audio wirelessly from your phone. Applications of SoundGear Phantom Hunting and Shooting Sports: Protects your hearing from gunfire while allowing you to hear game movements and conversations with fellow hunters. Musician and Concert-Goers: Enhances musical clarity while safeguarding against high decibel levels during performances. Industrial and Occupational Use: Provides reliable hearing protection in noisy workplaces while maintaining awareness of surroundings and communication with colleagues. Why Choose SoundGear Phantom? Proven Performance: Backed by Starkey's reputation for innovation and quality, the SoundGear Phantom delivers consistent performance and reliability in challenging environments. Customizable Solutions: Each device is tailored to your ear anatomy, ensuring a secure fit and personalized experience. Professional Support: As authorized providers of Starkey products, our team at Becker Audiology offers expert guidance and support to help you select and integrate the SoundGear Phantom into your lifestyle seamlessly. Conclusion Experience the future of hearing protection and enhancement with the Starkey SoundGear Phantom. Whether you're seeking reliable protection in loud environments or looking to enhance your auditory experience without compromising on safety, SoundGear Phantom offers unmatched performance and comfort.  Visit Becker Audiology to learn more about the SoundGear Phantom and schedule a consultation with one of our audiologists. Discover how this innovative technology can protect and enhance your hearing in various aspects of your life. Invest in your hearing health with SoundGear Phantom—because every sound matters.

Tinnitus is any sound that you hear in your ear or ears that is not present in your external environment. This sound can range from ringing to roaring to humming even to music, for some people. No matter how it sounds to you, if you hear it but it’s not in your surroundings, it is tinnitus. According to the National Institute of Health, tinnitus is present in about 26% of the adult population. This makes tinnitus the most common health condition within the United States. While many people have tinnitus, a much smaller percentage of people find their tinnitus to be bothersome in a way that it interferes in their everyday life. When that is the case, we recommend a tinnitus evaluation and management strategies. During our initial tinnitus evaluation, we aim to educate you about your tinnitus and to create an individualized management program surrounding where your tinnitus is affecting you the most.  The most typical cause of tinnitus is hearing loss. Tinnitus is often a benign body sound that is produced as a way for our bodies to say “Hey! I have some hearing loss.” Just like your stomach grumbling to let you know that you’re hungry. Although, at times it may not feel so benign in our bodies. While hearing loss may be the most common culprit of tinnitus, tinnitus can be made worse by two main factors: stress and fatigue. Of course, telling someone to just relax and sleep more is not very helpful and much easier said than done which is where our management strategies come in. While there is no known cure for tinnitus at this time, NO CURE DOES NOT MEAN NO HELP. If your tinnitus is affecting your quality of life, give us a call today to schedule an appointment to learn more about your tinnitus and how we can help you better manage it.

Ear wax, scientifically known as cerumen, plays a crucial role in maintaining ear health. Produced by the ear canal, it serves as a natural protective barrier against infections, water, and foreign particles. However, excessive accumulation or improper removal can lead to discomfort and potential complications. As audiologists, it's essential to educate our patients about the significance of ear wax and safe methods of removal. The Role of Ear Wax Although excessive earwax can be a nuisance, there are also multiple benefits: 1. Protects the Ear Canal: It traps dust, dirt, and bacteria, preventing them from reaching the delicate structures of the ear. 2. Moisturizes the Skin: It helps keep the skin inside the ear canal from becoming dry and itchy. 3. Acts as a Natural Antibacterial Agent: Ear wax contains antibacterial properties that contribute to ear health. Signs of Excessive Ear Wax While ear wax is generally beneficial, excessive buildup can cause symptoms/issues such as: · Earache or Fullness: Due to pressure from the buildup. · Hearing Problems: Partial or complete blockage can lead to muffled hearing or temporary hearing loss. · Itching or Discharge: Particularly if the wax hardens or becomes impacted. · Poor Hearing Aid Performance: Wax can plug up the speaker/receiver of a hearing aid preventing it from working properly. Safe Removal Techniques When ear wax causes discomfort or affects hearing, it may need to be removed. Here are safe methods recommended by audiologists: Ear Irrigation (Syringing): This method involves using a syringe to gently flush warm water into the ear canal to dislodge and remove the wax. It should be performed by a trained professional to avoid injury to the eardrum. This method should not be used if you have a tympanic membrane (eardrum) perforation. Microsuction: Using a suction device under a microscope, an audiologist can safely remove excess ear wax. This method is particularly useful for individuals with narrow or sensitive ear canals. Manual Removal: In many cases, ear wax can be removed manually using specialized instruments like curettes or loops. This should only be done by a healthcare professional to prevent damage to the ear canal or eardrum. Ear Drops: Over-the-counter ear drops can soften ear wax, making it easier to remove. However, it's essential to follow the instructions carefully and avoid prolonged use without medical supervision. What Not to Do To prevent complications, avoid using cotton swabs or other objects to clean inside the ear canal. These can push wax deeper, potentially causing impaction or injury to the ear canal or eardrum. Additionally, home remedies like using candles (ear candling) are not recommended as they can cause burns or worsen the situation. Seeking Professional Help If you experience symptoms of excessive ear wax or are unsure about proper removal techniques, consult an audiologist or healthcare provider. They can assess your ears and recommend the safest and most effective method for removing wax buildup. Conclusion Ear wax is a natural and beneficial substance that helps protect our ears. Understanding its role and knowing how to safely manage its accumulation is essential for maintaining ear health. By educating our patients about ear wax and safe removal techniques, we can ensure optimal ear care and prevent unnecessary discomfort or complications. For more information or to schedule a consultation regarding ear wax removal, contact Becker Audiology to speak with one of our knowledgeable audiologists today. Your ears deserve the best care—let us help you maintain their health and function. Remember, healthy ears start with informed choices and professional care.

At Becker Audiology, we take pride in being an independent practice allowing us to fit hearing aids from any of the major hearing aid manufacturers. This allows our audiologists to always select the most appropriate hearing aid solution for your specific needs. In today’s blog post we will discuss Phonak’s newest hearing aid platform, Phonak Infinio. What is Phonak Infinio? Infinio is the newest platform of hearing aids offered by the hearing aid manufacturer, Phonak. The platform has improved performance in background noise compared to previous Phonak models. This allows for improved ease of listening in more difficult listening environments like restaurants, bars, and group environments. What styles of hearing aids are currently offered on the Infinio platform? Currently, a rechargeable receiver-in-the-canal or RIC style of hearing aid is offered on the Infinio platform. There are four different levels of technology offered in Infinio that range in price point. The biggest difference between them being the features available for hearing in background noise. Infinio also offers the Sphere model. The Sphere model is also a rechargeable RIC style hearing aid. The Sphere model uses an additional computer chip to allow for even further improved listening in background noise and difficult listening environments. The Sphere model is slightly larger than the original Infinio model due to the additional computer chip and larger battery needed for more computing power while maintaining the battery life patients have come to expect from their Phonak hearing aids. The Sphere model is only offered in the higher levels of technology. Infinio is also available for CROS and BiCROS users. Phonak notes that there is a much improved battery life of 16 hours with the rechargeable CROS compared to previous models. Infinio hearing aids are Auracast ready. Phonak is also planning to release rechargeable custom hearing aids on the Infinio platform, but a launch date has yet to be announced. What is Auracast? Auracast is a broadcast style Bluetooth system of the future. While not presently available in public spaces, Auracast is set to replace telecoil and loop systems in the coming years. Auracast will allow for patients to stream audio in public spaces including places of worship, theaters, lecture halls, and transportation hubs directly to their hearing devices. You can learn more about the future of Auracast here ! Try Phonak Infinio hearing aids today! All hearing aids at Becker Audiology come with a 60 day trial period. During this trial period patients are able to return the hearing aids and will receive a full refund of the cost of the hearing aids. Call today to schedule an audiogram and a hearing aid evaluation to learn more about Phonak Infinio!

So, you think it’s time to schedule a hearing test. Be that because you have noticed yourself saying “what?” or because your loved ones are noticing that you are struggling to hear them more than you used to, here is what to expect. When you first arrive to the office, you will be asked to fill out a form with your case history information. There will be questions about when you first suspected you had hearing loss and where you are struggling to hear the most. Your audiologist will review your case history and then call you back for your appointment. Your audiologist will review your case history with you and ask any further questions they may have. You will then be seated in a sound proof booth for the hearing test. Your ears will be looked in to check for ear wax or any signs of infection. A pair of foam earpieces will be placed in your ears for the testing. You will be listening for very soft beeps throughout the hearing test. Audiologists are trying to find the softest that you are able to hear. You will indicate to the audiologist that you have heard the beeps by either pressing a button, raising your hand, or responding verbally. Your right and your left ear will be tested individually. The next portion of testing involves repeating words back to your audiologist. The words will get very soft and you will try your best to repeat them back. Then, you will be asked to repeat words back at a normal volume that you should be able to hear easily. Following this, a headband called a bone conductor will be placed on your head. You will be asked to listen for some more beeps just as you had done before. After this, your hearing test is complete!  After your hearing test is finished, your audiologist will review the results with you. They will make recommendations on next steps based on these results.

At Becker Audiology, we take pride in being an independent practice allowing us to fit hearing aids from any of the major hearing aid manufacturers. This allows our audiologists to always select the most appropriate hearing aid solution for your specific needs. One such solution is the Phonak Lyric, currently the only extended-wear hearing aid available on the market. In today’s blog, we will take a deeper look at Lyric and how it differs from more traditional hearing aid options. What is Lyric? Lyric is the first extended-wear, disposable hearing device that is 100% invisible. It is comfortably placed deep in the ear canal by our Lyric-trained audiologists and can be worn 24 hours a day, seven days a week without taking it out. The average life span of a Lyric device is 6 to 12 weeks before it needs to be replaced. The device is then removed from your ear and thrown away, and a brand-new device is placed inside your ear canal. How is Lyric different from more conventional hearing aid options? The main difference between Lyric and conventional hearing aids is the extended-wear, disposable nature of Lyric. Once Lyric is placed in your ear, it stays in your ears for multiple weeks/months before it needs to be replaced with a brand-new device. A conventional hearing needs to be removed from your ear nightly, and they will require care and maintenance to keep the devices functioning well. How often do I need to get the devices changed? Most of our patients will get a 6 to 12 week lifespan out of Lyric device before it needs to be replaced. A variety of factors will impact the expected life of a Lyric device, including earwax build-up, ear canal humidity levels, and lifestyle (i.e. accidently getting the device wet while jumping into a pool). If Lyric device stops functioning, we can typically get you in for an appointment same or next day to have a new device placed. Advantages of Lyric: The main advantages of Lyric include: 1.) 100% invisible 2.) No changing batteries, no charging the devices, and no cleaning or maintenance 3.) 24/7 hearing – the devices stay in your ear while sleeping, exercising, and showering, 4.) Patients often report improved sound quality with Lyric relative to their traditional hearing aids. Lyric is an excellent option for people who want effortless hearing without the fuss of dealing with a hearing aid. Disadvantages of Lyric: Lyric also has some unique disadvantages. First, Lyric can cause irritation in the canal because it is worn 24/7. In the event the ear canal is irritated, the device cannot be re-fit until the canal is healthy. This may lead to down times of a week or two without being able to wear the device. Although this is not common, we do occasionally see this with our patients. Second, you will not be able to submerge your head underwater while swimming. If you swim under water regularly, Lyric will not be an appropriate option for you. And third, Lyric is not appropriate for all hearing losses and ear canal shapes and sizes. At your initial consultation, candidacy will be determined in order to move forward with a trial. How does a Lyric subscription work? Lyric is offered through an annual subscription model. When an annual subscription is purchased, the price includes all the devices you will use throughout the year, and all services at our office for removal and insertion. At the conclusion of your subscription, you have the option to renew your subscription for another year. Try Lyric risk-free! At your initial appointment, you will undergo a hearing test and ear examination in order to determine if you are a candidate for Lyric. If candidacy is confirmed, you can be fit with Lyric same day. Lyric comes with a 30-day risk free trial period to make sure your ear responds well to having a device in it 24/7, and that you are satisfied with how you are hearing. You can cancel your subscription at anytime during the trial. Payment is not due until after the 30-day trial period has ended. Final Thoughts: We’re proud to be one of the few offices in southeastern Wisconsin to offer Phonak Lyric. This unique device provides an alternative to conventional hearing aid options for people who want an invisible, hassle-free option for their hearing needs. Call our office to learn more about Lyric or to schedule your Lyric consultation! Dr. Ryan Becker, Au.D.