What are the signs of hearing loss?
There are many signs and symptoms of hearing loss.
Signs of Hearing Loss:
- Frequently asking people to repeat themselves
- Difficulty hearing people on the phone
- Having to listen to the radio or TV louder than a normal level
- Trouble following conversations involving several people
- Tinnitus, or ringing in the ears
- Vertigo
How often should I get tested?
Everyone should get their hearing tested occasionally. Between ages 18-45 years old, you should get your hearing checked every 5 years. Once you turn 46, you should get your hearing checked every 3 years, and after 60 years hearing tests should be every 2 years. However, If you discover a hearing problem, you can take steps to help the hearing loss before it worsens.
What is snoring exactly?
Snoring usually comes from the vibration of the soft tissues in the throat. It can be made worse by nasal obstruction from allergies or a crooked wall inside the nose (medically called a deviated septum). Sometimes it is positional, meaning it is worse when a person lies on their back.
What is obstructive sleep apnea?
Obstructive sleep apnea is another common condition that can lead to other health issues if left untreated. Sleep apnea happens when patients stop breathing momentarily during sleep because of a collapse of the soft tissues in the throat. If these pauses occur frequently and last long enough (usually 10 seconds at a time) then a patient may have a condition known as obstructive sleep apnea.
What is Septoplasty?
Septoplasty is a procedure to straighten the wall which divides the left from the right side of the nose, also called the nasal septum. If crooked, the wall blocks drainage holes as well. If this is the case, the wall is straightened through surgery. Swollen internal nasal membranes are often reduced at the same time. This is known as a turbinate reduction and improves breathing dramatically.
How is the Endoscopic sinus surgery done?
Endoscopic sinus surgery is surgery performed using small telescopes, which are called endoscopes. It usually involves enlarging the natural drainage openings of the sinuses into the nose so that a little bit of swelling due to a cold or allergies will not lead to the sinus becoming blocked off and then filling with fluid. Sinus surgery is usually an outpatient procedure.
Have questions about Ear, Nose, and Throat Health? Call the Shea Clinic today to set up an appointment with our experts. Call now locally at 901-761-9720 or toll-free at 800-477-SHEA.